Peach Cobbler, a Scrumptious Dessert

Peach Cobbler has got to be one of my most favorite desserts. There doesn't even have to be a special occasion when I'll gather up all the ingredients and whip up a double batch. However, this is not a dessert for the faint of heart nor the calorie watcher as it is very high in sugar content (note of caution: also not a good dessert choice for diabetics). But, if you've been watching your diet carefully lately and are ready for a decadent treat, be sure to give this wonderful dessert a try.

The ingredients and instructions are as follows:

1/2 cup sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1 can of peaches
3 tbsp shortening
1 cup unbleached flour
1 tbsp sugar
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup milk

Heat oven to 400 degrees. Makes 6 small servings (or in my case, enough for 2)

Fruit mixture: In a saucepan, blend 1/2 cup sugar, the cornstarch, cinnamon and peaches. Stir constantly over low to medium heat until the mixture thickens and comes to a slight boil. Remove from heat, and pour into an ungreased casserole dish. Keep heated in the oven while preparing the bread mixture.

Bread mixture: mix the flour, the 1 tbsp sugar, baking powder and salt into a bowl. Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. Then stir in the milk and blend. Drop the dough by the spoonful onto the hot peach mixture.

Bake until the topping is golden brown (about 25 to 30 minutes). Best when served warm or piping hot from the oven. Can also be served with either ice cream or whipped cream.

If you don't care for peaches, they can be substituted by using either canned cherries, plums or blueberries. It can also be made with fresh fruit, rather than canned, in which case you would use 4 cups of your choice of fruit in the recipe. However, I do prefer to use canned, as the added juice in them give that extra boost of flavor to the dessert, and especially to the bread mixture.

This dessert makes a fabulous addition to any menu, especially when you have company over. It's sure to make a big hit with your guests. Add it to any holiday dessert as well. It's quick and easy to prepare and so very delicious. You may have to run an extra few laps around the block during your exercise regime, but it's very well worth it.