Taste: Annotated Recipe: Peach Cobbler

This summer, Johnson’s Farm in Medford gets an extreme farm makeover, with a new line of heat-at-home dinners, an expanded selection of seasonal goodies — think strawberry yogurt scones and blueberry-flavored pretzels — and kid-tempting go-karts. But this peach cobbler recipe won’t ever change; it’s been served on the farm for more than 20 years. We love it for the sugar-cookie-like topping and standout peachiness, and because it takes less than 20 minutes to throw together.

Cobbler filling
6 c. peaches, peeled, pitted and wedged
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1⁄2 c. granulated sugar
1⁄4 c. plain gelatin mix

Topping
1 c. all-purpose flour
2⁄3 c. granulated sugar, plus more for sprinkling
1⁄2 tsp. baking powder
Dash table salt
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 egg, beaten
1⁄4 c. unsalted butter, melted
4 tsp. whole milk
Ground cinnamon, for sprinkling

To make filling Toss peaches and other ingredients in a bowl until well coated. Spoon mixture into a 9-inch-square glass or ceramic pan. Set aside.
To make topping and assemble Preheat oven to 325š Fahrenheit. In a bowl, mix all ingredients except cinnamon by hand until dough comes together. Divide the dough into 10 even balls. Do not flatten. Place balls in a checkerboard pattern on top of the peach mixture. Bake for 50 minutes, rotating pan after 35 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle the top with cinnamon and sugar. Cool for at least 30 minutes, to room temperature, before cutting and serving. Serves 6 to 8.

Tips
– Get whatever peaches are in season. We love August’s sweet, juicy Red Havens or large, firmer Lorings.
– Fine table salt is best for baking. It blends easily, and a small amount boosts the peaches’ natural sweetness without tasting salty.
– You’ve got great peaches, so use a good, pure vanilla extract, like those made from imported Tahitian or Madagascan beans.
– Microwave the butter for about a minute for easy melting.
– Gelatin thickens the peach juices. If you prefer a looser filling, try using just 2 tablespoons.