Ultimate Bourbon Peach Cobbler Recipe with Pecan Streusel

Name: Ultimate Bourbon Peach Cobbler Recipe with Pecan Streusel
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 6-8 fresh peaches (about 6 cups), sliced into wedges; 1/4 cup bourbon; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup brown sugar (for streusel); 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (for streusel); 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for streusel); 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter (for streusel); 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for streusel)

Posted on August 17, 2025

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There’s something magical about a warm dish of peach cobbler fresh out of the oven. The bubbling sweet peaches, the golden crust, and that irresistible nutty streusel topping—all come together in perfect harmony. But add a splash of bourbon, and wow, you’ve got yourself a dessert that’s rich, decadent, and slightly fancy without the fuss! This Ultimate Bourbon Peach Cobbler with Pecan Streusel Topping is my go-to treat when peaches are at their peak, and you’ll love how easy it is to make.

This recipe takes a Southern classic and gives it a subtle twist with bourbon, adding depth to the sweetness of fresh peaches. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just need a comforting dessert, this cobbler will have everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me, the combination of juicy fruit, buttery crust, and crunchy pecans is downright addictive!

The Story Behind Bourbon Peach Cobbler

Peach cobbler has deep roots in Southern cooking and is considered a quintessential summer dessert. Traditionally, cobblers were made when fresh fruits were abundant, especially during peak peach season. Early settlers would bake fruits with a biscuit-like topping, creating a rustic yet delicious dessert that didn’t require a pie crust. Over time, cobblers evolved into what we enjoy today—soft, bubbly fruit filling with a variety of toppings, from biscuit dough to streusel.

My version of peach cobbler gets an upgrade with a touch of bourbon. I discovered this twist during a trip to Kentucky, where bourbon seemed to sneak its way into everything from barbecue sauce to desserts. Not only does the bourbon enhance the natural sweetness of ripe peaches, but it also lends a warm, caramel-like flavor that pairs perfectly with the pecan streusel.

Every summer, when peaches are at their juiciest and most fragrant, I make this cobbler as a tribute to those long, sunny days spent enjoying fresh fruit. It’s ideal for backyard gatherings, late-night treats, or just a quiet moment with your favorite dessert. Plus, the pecan streusel gives it an irresistible crunch that elevates it to “must-make” status!

Ingredients for Bourbon Peach Cobbler

Let’s talk ingredients! Each one plays an important role in creating this cobbler masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh Peaches: Look for ripe, firm peaches that are fragrant and slightly soft to the touch. If peaches aren’t in season, frozen peaches work beautifully—just thaw them first.
Bourbon: Any good-quality bourbon will do. It doesn’t have to be fancy! The bourbon adds a subtle warmth to the peaches without overpowering their flavor.
Brown Sugar: Both light and dark brown sugar work here. It adds sweetness and a slight molasses flavor to the filling.
Cinnamon: A must-have for cobbler! Cinnamon brings that cozy, warm spice that pairs beautifully with peaches.
All-Purpose Flour: You’ll need this for the topping and the filling to create the right thickness and texture.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for control over the saltiness of the recipe. Butter makes the cobbler rich and delicious.
Pecans: Toasted pecans add crunch and a nutty flavor to the streusel topping. If pecans aren’t your thing, walnuts or almonds are great substitutes.
Milk: Regular whole milk works, but you can use a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk if needed.
Vanilla Extract: A little vanilla goes a long way in enhancing the flavors of the cobbler.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can toss in a pinch of nutmeg or even a splash of almond extract for extra depth. Substitutions are easy, too—skip the bourbon for a kid-friendly version or use gluten-free flour to cater to dietary needs. Pro tip: Always taste your peaches before baking. If they’re super sweet, you might want to cut back on the sugar slightly.

Equipment Needed

Here’s the gear you’ll need to whip up this cobbler:

9×13-inch Baking Dish: A glass or ceramic dish works best for even baking and a pretty presentation.
Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple—one for the peach filling and another for the streusel topping.
Whisk: Great for blending the dry ingredients and creating a smooth batter.
Pastry Cutter or Fork: This is handy for cutting butter into the streusel topping.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in baking, so have these ready.

If you don’t have a pastry cutter, don’t worry—a sturdy fork will do the trick. And while a baking dish is ideal, you can use a cast-iron skillet for a rustic presentation. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned!

How to Make Bourbon Peach Cobbler

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Prepare the peaches: Slice 6-8 peaches into wedges (about 6 cups). In a large bowl, toss them with 1/4 cup bourbon, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon flour, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Let them sit for 10 minutes to soak up the flavors.
Make the batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Gradually stir in 1/2 cup milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
Layer the cobbler: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Spoon the peaches and their juices evenly over the batter.
Prepare the streusel: In another bowl, mix 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup flour, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Cut in 1/4 cup cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until crumbly. Fold in 1/2 cup chopped pecans.
Top and bake: Sprinkle the streusel mixture evenly over the peaches. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Cool slightly: Let the cobbler sit for 10 minutes before serving. It will thicken as it cools.

Pro tip: If your topping isn’t browning, broil it for 1-2 minutes for that perfect golden finish. And don’t worry if the batter looks uneven—it’ll rise beautifully around the peaches!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some insider tips to make your cobbler the best it can be:

Choose ripe peaches: The sweeter and juicier they are, the better the cobbler will taste.
Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cobbler instead of a fluffy texture.
Cut the butter cold: This helps create a crumbly streusel topping. Warm butter will make it greasy.
Let it rest: After baking, the cobbler will thicken as it cools. Resist the urge to dive in immediately!

Fun fact: If you accidentally add too much bourbon (oops!), cook the peach filling on the stove for a few minutes to reduce the alcohol content while keeping the flavor.

Variations & Adaptations

Want to make this recipe your own? Try these options:

Kid-friendly version: Skip the bourbon and add a splash of orange juice for a zesty twist.
Gluten-free adaptation: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in both the batter and the streusel topping.
Seasonal fruit substitution: Swap peaches for apples, pears, or even berries depending on what’s available.
Nut-free version: Replace pecans with rolled oats or sunflower seeds for a similar texture.

One time, I added a handful of shredded coconut to the streusel topping, and it was a game-changer. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This cobbler is best served warm, topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle caramel sauce over the top for an extra indulgent treat.

Leftover cobbler can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 30 seconds. Bonus: The flavors deepen after a day or two, making it even tastier!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional highlights:

Calories: Approximately 280 per serving
Fiber: Peaches are a great source of dietary fiber.
Healthy fats: Pecans provide heart-healthy fats.
Vitamins: Peaches are packed with vitamin C and vitamin A.

While this dessert isn’t exactly low-calorie, it’s a wholesome treat made with fresh ingredients. And hey, you’re getting some fruit in there, which is always a win!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s comforting, flavorful, and just a little bit fancy, this Ultimate Bourbon Peach Cobbler with Pecan Streusel Topping is the one for you. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to impress your friends and family. Honestly, I love this recipe because it’s a little nostalgic, a little indulgent, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out. I’d love to hear your variations and twists—drop a comment below or share your photos on social media! Remember, the best recipes are the ones you make your own. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I use canned peaches for this recipe?

Yes, canned peaches can work in a pinch! Drain them well and reduce the sugar in the filling since canned peaches are often packed in syrup.

What’s the best bourbon for baking?

A mid-range bourbon like Maker’s Mark or Bulleit works great. Save the expensive stuff for sipping!

Can I make this cobbler ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cobbler and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake it when ready to serve for the freshest result.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, it’s completely vegetarian! Just ensure your bourbon and other ingredients are free from animal-derived additives.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, cobbler freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.