Step 1

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.

Step 2

Place the peaches in a 9-by-9-inch baking pan. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, 3/4 cup of the sugar, the baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt. Add the milk and melted butter and mix well. Pour the batter evenly over the peaches.

Step 3

In a small bowl, mix together the remaining 1/4 cup sugar, the cornstarch and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Sprinkle the mixture over the batter. Evenly pour the boiling water all over.

Step 4

Bake until golden brown and bubbling, 50 minutes. Serve in individual dessert dishes with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.