This recipe, Canned Peach Cobbler , was recreated using the Modern Family Cook Book from 1943 by Meta Given.
Canned Peach Cobbler from 1943: A Sweet Slice of History
During World War II, rationing changed the way American families cooked, baked, and preserved food. Sugar, butter, and fresh fruit were often hard to come by, making canned goods a staple in kitchens across the country. One dessert that stood the test of time—and resourcefulness—was canned peach cobbler. This simple yet satisfying treat brought comfort to families and soldiers alike, proving that even in times of hardship, a little sweetness could go a long way.
The Wartime Kitchen and Rationing
By 1943, food rationing had been in place for over a year in the United States. Staples like sugar, flour, and dairy products were limited, and home cooks had to get creative. Government-issued ration books helped regulate food distribution, encouraging families to stretch ingredients and rely on alternatives.
Canned peaches, packed in syrup, became a pantry essential. Unlike fresh fruit, they had a long shelf life and could add natural sweetness to dishes, reducing the need for rationed sugar. Clever homemakers repurposed these canned goods into everything from jams to desserts, and peach cobbler became a go-to dish thanks to its simple, adaptable recipe.
The 1943 Canned Peach Cobbler Recipe
This vintage cobbler recipe is a classic example of wartime ingenuity. It uses minimal sugar and substitutes fresh ingredients with pantry staples, making it an authentic taste of 1940s home baking
Ziploc Large Food Storage Freezer Bags, Grip ‘n Seal Technology for Easier Grip, Open and Close, 60 Count
$11.97 (as of May 14, 2025 00:00 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Bedsure Satin Pillow Case Queen Size 2 Pack – Similar to Silk Pillow Cases, Silky Pillowcase Covers for Hair and Skin with Envelope Closure, Gifts for Women Men, Grey, 20×30 Inches
$11.49 (as of May 14, 2025 00:00 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Boolegon No Drill No Tools Cellular Shades Color-Matched Cordless Honeycomb Blinds Easy to Install Cellular Blinds for Windows, Blackout-White, Custom Size
$45.99 (as of May 14, 2025 00:01 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
RUVANTI 100% Cotton Sheets – Crispy Cooling Percale Sheets for King Size Bed, Breathable & Durable King Sheet Set, 16 Inches Deep Pocket Bed Sheets, Sweet Pea, 4 Pieces
$68.99 (as of May 14, 2025 00:01 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
LEVOIT Humidifiers for Bedroom, 2.5L Top Fill Cool Mist Air Humidifier for Baby Nursery, Plants, Ultrasonic, Auto Shut-off, BPA Free, Quiet, Knob Control, 360° Nozzle
$49.00 (as of May 14, 2025 00:01 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
LEGO Botanicals Artificial Wildflower Bouquet – Fake Indoor Flowers Building Set for Home, Kitchen, Desk Decoration, Adults Ages 18+ – Gift for Mother’s Day – 10313
$63.00 (as of May 14, 2025 00:01 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Plant Stand Indoor Gifts for Women Birthday Gifts for Women Her from Daughter Mom Sister Best Friend Wife Anniversary Teacher Auntie Female Presents Gift Flower Vases for Decor
$23.95 (as of May 14, 2025 00:01 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
NICETOWN Blackout Curtains 2 Panels for Bedroom- Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains 63 Inches Long for Living Room/Kitchen Rideaux occultants (2 Panels, W42 x L63 -Inch,Grey)
$24.99 (as of May 14, 2025 00:00 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
rabbitgoo Window Films for Privacy, Static Cling Frosted Glass Sticker, Non-Adhesive Privacy Film Sun Blocking Window Covering Frosting Vinyl Bathroom Sliding Glass Door, 44.5 x 200cm, Pure Frosted
$16.99 (as of May 14, 2025 00:00 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Lahome Insect Area Rugs 8×10, Non Slip Washable Rugs for Living Room 8×10 Rug, Soft Modern Bedroom Rug Under Bed Ultra-Thin Large Carpet for Dining Room Office Playroom, Black
$199.99 (as of May 14, 2025 00:01 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Canned Peach Cobbler
Ingredients
- 1 No. 2½ tin sliced peaches I used 1 large 796 ml tin sliced peaches.
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- Pinch salt
- 2 teaspoons butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Plain pastry for single crust
Instructions
- Drain juice from peaches and combine with the 2 tablespoons flour, and a pinch of salt , which have been sifted together. Cook over direct heat , until mixture boils and thickens. Remove from heat and add butter and lemon juice. Combine with peaches and pour baking dish. Roll out the chilled pastry on a floured board to fit on top of a casserole; gash in several places and lay over peaches. Bake in a hot oven (450° F.) for 20 to 25 minutes or until crust is browned.