Peach Crisp

Old-fashioned Peach Crisp is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer with its juicy peaches and crunchy oat topping. This Peach Crisp is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy evenings at home. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that everyone will come back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dessert in no time.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using ripe peaches brings a natural sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm on its own or topped with your favorite ice cream or yogurt.
• Perfect for Any Season: While great in summer, this dessert can also be made year-round with frozen peaches.
• Customizable Recipe: Feel free to add nuts or different spices to create your unique twist!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Knife for slicing peaches

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: A good quality baking pan ensures even cooking and browning of the crisp.
• Mixing bowls: Using multiple bowls helps keep ingredients organized while preparing the dish.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor balance in your crisp.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Peach Crisp, gather the following ingredients:

For the Filling

• 8 cups peeled and thinly sliced fresh peaches
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (divided)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (divided)
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Topping

• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) salted butter (room temperature)
• 1 ¾ cup old-fashioned oats

How to Make Peach Crisp

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Prepare a 9×9 baking pan by buttering it lightly, then set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Peach Filling

In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches, granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and salt. Mix these ingredients until well combined. Pour this peach mixture into your prepared baking pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Topping

In the same large bowl, cream together the brown sugar, remaining ½ cup of flour, room-temperature butter, and remaining teaspoon of cinnamon. This should form a wet clumpy mixture. Add in the rolled oats and stir until you have a coarse mixture; using your hands can help mix it better.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Evenly spread the oat mixture over the peaches in the baking pan. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until you see a light golden color around the edges of the oats. Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Serve your Peach Crisp warm on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired. Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Peach Crisp

Peach Crisp is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to enjoy this delicious treat.

A La Mode

• Serve warm Peach Crisp topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination. The creaminess of the ice cream complements the warmth and sweetness of the crisp perfectly.

Fresh Whipped Cream

• Dollop freshly whipped cream on top of your Peach Crisp for a light and airy addition. This adds a touch of elegance and balances the richness of the dessert.

Yogurt Parfait

• Layer Peach Crisp with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. This makes for a satisfying breakfast or snack while still enjoying the delightful flavors.

Drizzle of Honey

• Add a drizzle of honey over Peach Crisp just before serving. The natural sweetness enhances the peach flavor and gives it an extra touch.

Nutty Crunch

• Sprinkle chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, on top of the warm Peach Crisp. This adds texture and a delightful nutty flavor that pairs well with peaches.

How to Perfect Peach Crisp

Perfecting your Peach Crisp can elevate this classic dessert to new heights. Here are some tips to help you achieve a delicious result every time.

• Choose ripe peaches – Select fresh, ripe peaches for the best flavor. They should be slightly soft to the touch and have a fragrant aroma.
• Control sweetness – Adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of your peaches. Taste them first and modify accordingly for perfect balance.
• Use cold butter – When mixing your topping, use cold butter to create a crumble that bakes up beautifully. It helps form that sought-after crispy texture.
• Let it rest – Allow your Peach Crisp to cool for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps set the filling, making it easier to serve.
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to add other spices, like nutmeg or ginger, to your topping for added depth and flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Crisp

Peach Crisp pairs well with various side dishes that complement its sweet and fruity flavors. Consider these options when planning your meal.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing, creamy vanilla ice cream balances out the warm crisp perfectly.
2. Greek Yogurt – A healthy alternative that adds creaminess and tanginess, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
3. Coconut Whipped Cream – For a dairy-free option, try coconut whipped cream which adds tropical flair to each bite.
4. Fresh Berries – Serve alongside mixed fresh berries for a burst of tartness that contrasts beautifully with sweet peaches.
5. Lemon Sorbet – The refreshing citrus notes in lemon sorbet provide a palate-cleansing effect that enhances enjoyment.
6. Chopped Nuts – Offer toasted nuts as an optional crunchy side; they add texture and rich flavor that compliments the dish nicely.
7. Herb-Infused Water – For something refreshing, serve herb-infused water (like mint or basil) as an invigorating drink alongside dessert.
8. Cheese Plate – A selection of soft cheeses can create an interesting contrast with the sweetness of Peach Crisp, adding savory notes to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peach Crisp, small mistakes can lead to a less-than-perfect dessert. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Ignoring peach ripeness: Using under-ripe peaches will result in a tart flavor. Choose ripe peaches that yield slightly when pressed for the best taste.
• Overmixing the topping: Overmixing can make the topping tough instead of crumbly. Mix just until combined for a light, crunchy texture.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the crisp too soon can lead to a messy serving. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes to set properly before serving.
• Not using enough cinnamon: Cinnamon enhances the flavor significantly. Make sure to follow the recipe’s cinnamon measurements for a balanced taste.
• Using cold butter: Cold butter doesn’t incorporate well into the topping mixture. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for that perfect crumbly texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Peach Crisp

• Place cooled Peach Crisp in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Peach Crisp

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for about 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peach Crisp.

What type of peaches should I use for Peach Crisp?

You can use fresh yellow or white peaches, but feel free to mix in other fruits like nectarines or plums for variety.

Can I make Peach Crisp ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and topping separately and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

How do I adjust this recipe for different fruit types?

You can substitute other fruits like cherries or blueberries, adjusting sugar levels based on their sweetness.

Is this Peach Crisp recipe healthy?

Peach Crisp can be made healthier by reducing sugar or using whole grain oats. It’s a delicious way to enjoy fruit!

Can I add nuts to my Peach Crisp?

Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts like almonds or pecans will enhance both flavor and crunch in your topping mix.

Final Thoughts

This Peach Crisp is an easy yet delightful dessert that showcases fresh peaches beautifully. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different fruits or toppings. Give it a try and enjoy warm scoops topped with your favorite ice cream!