Smoky Skillet Grilled Peach Cobbler Recipe

Introduction

There is nothing quite like the height of summer in Connecticut, where the evenings cool down just enough to crave a warm, comforting dessert. This Grilled Peach Cobbler recipe captures that essence perfectly, blending the natural sweetness of ripe stone fruit with the rustic, smoky charm of outdoor cooking. By utilizing the Arteflame grill, we elevate a traditional cobbler into a culinary masterpiece. Unlike a standard oven bake, grilling the peaches first on the flat cooktop caramelizes their natural sugars, adding a depth of flavor that is impossible to replicate indoors. This dish is not just a dessert; it is a celebration of seasonal produce and the joy of gathering around the fire. Whether you are hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quiet family dinner, this skillet cobbler delivers a golden, buttery crust and a bubbling, aromatic filling that screams summer comfort.

Ingredients

The Peach Filling

• 8 fresh peaches, pitted and sliced (freestone peaches work best)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thicker filling)

The Cobbler Topping

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Cinnamon sugar for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Start your Arteflame grill by building a fire in the center. Allow it to burn down until you have a bed of hot coals and the flat cooktop (plancha) reaches cooking temperature.
2. Aim for a medium heat zone on the flat top for searing the fruit, and ensure you have a spot where you can place a cast iron skillet for baking (usually slightly away from the direct center fire).
3. Oil the cooktop lightly to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Grill the Peaches

1. Toss the sliced peaches in a bowl with the 1/4 cup of melted butter designated for the filling.
2. Place the peach slices directly onto the hot flat cooktop. Grill them for 2-3 minutes per side until they develop nice sear marks and begin to soften.
3. Remove the peaches from the grill and set them aside. This step intensifies the peach flavor and adds a subtle smoky note.

Step 3: Prepare the Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Slowly pour in the milk, the 1/2 cup of melted butter, and the vanilla extract.
3. Whisk gently until the batter is smooth. Do not overmix; a few small lumps are fine.

Step 4: Assemble the Cobbler

1. Take a 10 or 12-inch cast iron skillet and place it on the grill to warm up slightly.
2. Pour the batter directly into the skillet. It will spread out to cover the bottom.
3. In a separate bowl, toss the grilled peaches with the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
4. Spoon the peach mixture evenly over the top of the batter. Do not stir; the batter will rise up around the fruit as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake on the Grill

1. Place the skillet on the flat cooktop, ensuring it is not directly over the open flames to prevent the bottom from burning before the top is done. You can also use a pizza oven attachment if available, or cover the skillet loosely with foil to trap heat.
2. Bake for 35-45 minutes. Rotate the skillet every 10 minutes to ensure even baking.
3. The cobbler is done when the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Tips

Mastering dessert on an Arteflame comes down to temperature management. Because cast iron retains heat so well, it is crucial to keep the skillet in a moderate heat zone rather than directly over the center inferno. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, simply slide the skillet further toward the outer edge of the cooktop. For the best texture, use peaches that are ripe but still slightly firm; over-ripe fruit may turn to mush too quickly on the grill. If you want a crispier top, try using a grill dome or a piece of foil tented over the skillet for the first 20 minutes of baking to help the batter set, then remove it to brown the crust. Always remember that the sugar in the fruit can burn at high temperatures, so keep a watchful eye on the caramelization process.

Variations

While the classic peach profile is a crowd-pleaser, the versatility of this recipe allows for endless creativity. You can easily adapt this foundation to suit whatever seasonal fruit is available or to cater to specific dietary needs. Experimenting with spirits or different spices can also transform the dish from a family dessert to an elegant dinner party finale. Here are a few ways to switch things up:

• Bourbon Peach: Add 2 tablespoons of high-quality bourbon to the peach filling mixture for a warm, oaky depth.
• Berry Medley: Substitute half of the peaches with fresh blueberries or raspberries for a tart contrast and vibrant color.
• Ginger Spice: Add 1 teaspoon of fresh grated ginger to the peaches for a spicy kick that cuts through the sugar.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to accommodate guests with sensitivities.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the batter before baking for added texture.

Best pairings

A hot, smoky cobbler demands a companion that provides temperature and texture contrast. The most classic pairing is, without a doubt, a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The way the cold cream melts into the warm, spiced breading creates a sauce that is simply irresistible. For a lighter option, freshly whipped cream with a hint of maple syrup works beautifully. Beverage-wise, this dessert pairs exceptionally well with a dark roast coffee or a smoky bourbon neat, which echoes the grilled notes of the peaches. If you prefer wine, a chilled glass of Moscato or a late-harvest Riesling offers the acidity and sweetness needed to balance the richness of the buttery biscuit topping.

Conclusion

This Grilled Peach Cobbler recipe is more than just a sweet treat; it is a testament to the versatility of the Arteflame grill. By taking the baking process outdoors, you infuse the dish with an environment and flavor profile that a kitchen oven simply cannot provide. The combination of caramelized, smoke-kissed peaches and a fluffy, golden crust creates a sensory experience that lingers long after the last bite. Whether you are in Connecticut enjoying a cool evening or grilling in the heat of the South, this recipe brings people together. So, fire up the grill, gather your friends, and enjoy the simple, rustic elegance of cast iron outdoor baking.