Introduction: Ready for a Warm, Fruity Delight?
Craving a dessert that captures the sweet, juicy essence of summer peaches? This Peach Crisp is your go-to treat! Imagine tender, ripe peaches baked under a crunchy, nutty topping, served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and cozy, ideal for family dinners, summer gatherings, or using up those ripe peaches. Inspired by your love for fruity desserts like Sheet Pan Blueberry Shortcake and Strawberry Shortcake, this recipe is simple, fresh, and oh-so-comforting. Ready to fill your kitchen with peachy goodness? Let’s dive into this easy, delicious recipe!
Overview: Why Peach Crisp is a Must-Try
This Peach Crisp is a classic dessert that’s all about showcasing fresh peaches with a buttery, oat-and-nut topping. The hint of cinnamon and lemon juice elevates the flavors, while the crisp texture contrasts perfectly with the soft fruit. What makes it special? It’s quick to prep, healthier than heavy cakes, and uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
- Time Requirement: About 40–45 minutes total (15 minutes prep, 20–30 minutes baking).
- Difficulty Level: Super easy! Perfect for beginners or busy home cooks.
- Why It’s Special: It’s a lighter dessert with fresh fruit, quick to make, and versatile for any season or occasion.
This crisp is a warm, crowd-pleasing treat that’s sure to become a favorite. Let’s get baking!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this Peach Crisp. Each ingredient adds to the juicy, crunchy, and comforting magic.
For the Peach Filling
- Ripe Peaches (5, pitted and sliced): The star ingredient, bringing sweet, juicy flavor.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Thickens the peach juices for a perfect filling.
- Cane Sugar (1 tablespoon): Lightly sweetens the peaches.
- Fresh Lemon Juice (1 teaspoon): Adds a bright, tangy note to balance sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the peaches with a warm, sweet depth.
- Vanilla Ice Cream (for serving): The perfect creamy complement to the warm crisp.
For the Topping
- Whole Rolled Oats (1/2 cup): Adds a hearty, crunchy texture.
- Almond Flour (1/2 cup): Creates a nutty, tender topping.
- Brown Sugar (1/3 cup): Adds caramel-like sweetness.
- Crushed Walnuts (1/4 cup): Brings a rich, nutty crunch.
- Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warm, cozy spice.
- Sea Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness.
- Firm Coconut Oil or Cold Butter (1/4 cup, cubed): Creates a crumbly, rich topping.
Substitutions and Variations
- Peaches: Use nectarines, apricots, or frozen peaches (thawed and drained) if fresh aren’t available.
- Cornstarch: Swap with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch for thickening.
- Cane Sugar: Replace with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for a different sweetness.
- Almond Flour: Use all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour for a nut-free or gluten-free option.
- Walnuts: Swap for pecans, almonds, or skip for a nut-free version.
- Coconut Oil/Butter: Use vegan butter for dairy-free or stick with butter for classic flavor.
- Ice Cream: Serve with whipped cream, coconut whipped cream, or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this Peach Crisp is a breeze! Follow these simple steps for a perfect dessert every time.
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Skillet
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a 10-inch cast-iron skillet with butter or cooking spray.
Tip: If you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, use a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar-sized oven-safe dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Peach Filling
- In a large bowl, combine 5 sliced ripe peaches, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 tablespoon cane sugar, 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Toss gently to coat the peaches evenly.
Tip: Slice peaches about 1/4-inch thick for even cooking, and leave the skin on for extra texture and color.
Step 3: Make the Topping
- In a medium bowl, mix 1/2 cup whole rolled oats, 1/2 cup almond flour, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup crushed walnuts, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon sea salt.
- Using your hands, work in 1/4 cup firm coconut oil (or cold cubed butter) until the mixture is crumbly.
Tip: Keep the coconut oil or butter cold to create a crumbly texture—don’t overmix into a dough.
Step 4: Assemble the Crisp
- Scoop the peach filling into the greased skillet, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the crumbly topping evenly over the peaches.
Tip: Break up any large clumps of topping to ensure even baking and a crunchy texture.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake for 20–30 minutes, until the peaches are soft and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
Tip: Check at 20 minutes—if the topping browns too quickly, cover with foil for the remaining time.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on each portion.
- Enjoy the melty, fruity goodness!
Tip: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon for an extra-special touch.
Assembly: Building the Perfect Peach Crisp
Assembling this Peach Crisp is all about layering juicy fruit and crunchy topping for a cozy dessert. Here’s how to make it perfect:
- Prepare the Peaches: Toss the peaches gently to coat evenly without mashing them.
- Spread Evenly: Pour the filling into the skillet in an even layer for consistent baking.
- Top Generously: Sprinkle the topping evenly to cover all the peaches for a crunchy finish.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Aim for soft, bubbly peaches and a crisp, golden topping.
Presentation Tips:
- Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style vibe.
- Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a creamy contrast.
- Garnish with fresh peach slices or mint leaves for a pop of color.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This Peach Crisp is best fresh but stores well for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep it tasty:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze baked crisp for up to 2 months, wrapped tightly in foil and placed in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating:
- Microwave individual portions for 20–30 seconds.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes, covered with foil, until warmed through.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- Prep the peach filling (without cornstarch) up to a day ahead and refrigerate.
- Make the topping up to 2 days ahead and store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Assemble the crisp up to 4 hours before baking, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Tip: Add fresh peach slices when serving leftovers to revive the fruity flavor.
Recipe Variations
This Peach Crisp is easy to customize, drawing on your love for fruity desserts like Banana Cobbler and Strawberry Shortcake. Here are some fun ideas:
- Mixed Fruit Crisp: Add 1 cup blueberries, raspberries, or sliced apples to the peaches.
- Tropical Peach Crisp: Mix in 1/2 cup diced mango or pineapple for a tropical twist.
- Spiced Peach Crisp: Add 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg or ginger to the topping for extra warmth.
- Nut-Free Crisp: Skip walnuts and use extra oats or crushed gluten-free pretzels for crunch.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free oats and gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of almond flour.
Tip: Drizzle with honey or caramel sauce before serving for an indulgent touch.
Conclusion: A Cozy, Fruity Treat to Love
Peach Crisp is the perfect way to celebrate ripe peaches and create a warm, comforting dessert that everyone will adore. With its juicy peach filling, crunchy oat-nut topping, and melty ice cream, it’s a treat that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Perfect for summer gatherings, cozy nights, or using up those ripe peaches, this crisp is sure to impress. Play with the variations, serve with a big scoop of ice cream, and savor every sweet, fruity bite. What’s your favorite way to enjoy this crisp? Share your ideas in the comments and let us know how it turned out!
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Peach Crisp
Description
Craving a dessert that captures the sweet, juicy essence of summer peaches? This Peach Crisp is your go-to treat! Imagine tender, ripe peaches baked under a crunchy, nutty topping, served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
Ingredients
For the Peach Filling
- Ripe Peaches (5, pitted and sliced): The star ingredient, bringing sweet, juicy flavor.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Thickens the peach juices for a perfect filling.
- Cane Sugar (1 tablespoon): Lightly sweetens the peaches.
- Fresh Lemon Juice (1 teaspoon): Adds a bright, tangy note to balance sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the peaches with a warm, sweet depth.
- Vanilla Ice Cream (for serving): The perfect creamy complement to the warm crisp.
For the Topping
- Whole Rolled Oats (1/2 cup): Adds a hearty, crunchy texture.
- Almond Flour (1/2 cup): Creates a nutty, tender topping.
- Brown Sugar (1/3 cup): Adds caramel-like sweetness.
- Crushed Walnuts (1/4 cup): Brings a rich, nutty crunch.
- Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warm, cozy spice.
- Sea Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness.
- Firm Coconut Oil or Cold Butter (1/4 cup, cubed): Creates a crumbly, rich topping.
Substitutions and Variations
- Peaches: Use nectarines, apricots, or frozen peaches (thawed and drained) if fresh aren’t available.
- Cornstarch: Swap with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch for thickening.
- Cane Sugar: Replace with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for a different sweetness.
- Almond Flour: Use all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour for a nut-free or gluten-free option.
- Walnuts: Swap for pecans, almonds, or skip for a nut-free version.
- Coconut Oil/Butter: Use vegan butter for dairy-free or stick with butter for classic flavor.
- Ice Cream: Serve with whipped cream, coconut whipped cream, or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Skillet
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a 10-inch cast-iron skillet with butter or cooking spray.
Tip: If you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, use a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar-sized oven-safe dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Peach Filling
- In a large bowl, combine 5 sliced ripe peaches, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 tablespoon cane sugar, 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Toss gently to coat the peaches evenly.
Tip: Slice peaches about 1/4-inch thick for even cooking, and leave the skin on for extra texture and color.
Step 3: Make the Topping
- In a medium bowl, mix 1/2 cup whole rolled oats, 1/2 cup almond flour, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup crushed walnuts, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon sea salt.
- Using your hands, work in 1/4 cup firm coconut oil (or cold cubed butter) until the mixture is crumbly.
Tip: Keep the coconut oil or butter cold to create a crumbly texture—don’t overmix into a dough.
Step 4: Assemble the Crisp
- Scoop the peach filling into the greased skillet, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the crumbly topping evenly over the peaches.
Tip: Break up any large clumps of topping to ensure even baking and a crunchy texture.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake for 20–30 minutes, until the peaches are soft and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
Tip: Check at 20 minutes—if the topping browns too quickly, cover with foil for the remaining time.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on each portion.
- Enjoy the melty, fruity goodness!
Tip: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon for an extra-special touch.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned or frozen peaches?
Yes! Use drained canned peaches or thawed, drained frozen peaches. Reduce sugar to 1 teaspoon if using canned peaches in syrup.
2. Is this dessert healthy?
It’s lighter than many desserts with fresh fruit and oats for fiber. Use less sugar or a natural sweetener for a healthier version.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use vegan butter or coconut oil and serve with coconut whipped cream or dairy-free ice cream.
4. Why is my crisp soggy?
- Use ripe but firm peaches to avoid excess juice.
- Ensure the cornstarch is mixed well to thicken the filling.
- Bake until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbly.
5. Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Prep the filling and topping a day ahead, refrigerate, and assemble before baking. Or assemble up to 4 hours ahead and bake fresh.
6. How long does it last?
It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for 2 months.
7. Can I freeze this crisp?
Yes! Freeze baked crisp, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat before serving.
8. What’s the best way to serve it?
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel for a cozy treat.
This Peach Crisp is quick, versatile, and perfect for any sweet occasion. Happy baking!