Peach Crisp

Old-fashioned Peach Crisp is a delightful dessert that brings the sweet taste of summer right to your table. This easy-to-make dish features juicy peaches baked under a crunchy, golden topping. Perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy nights in, this peach crisp will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Its warm flavors combined with a scoop of vanilla ice cream create an irresistible treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dessert in no time.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of ripe peaches and cinnamon creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
• Customizable Topping: Feel free to add nuts or swap oats for other ingredients to make it your own!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a winter gathering, this peach crisp fits the bill.
• Great Leftovers: This dessert tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld together.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your peach crisp, gather the necessary tools and prepare your workspace for an enjoyable cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9 baking pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×9 baking pan: The right size ensures even cooking and perfect portions for serving.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for mixing ingredients without making a mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Peach 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 Oat 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. Butter a 9×9 baking pan and 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 well until everything is well combined. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking pan.

Step 3: Make the Oat Topping

In the same large bowl, cream together the brown sugar, remaining ½ cup of flour, room temperature butter, and remaining teaspoon of cinnamon until you achieve a wet, clumpy mixture. Stir in the old-fashioned oats until combined. (Using your hands is often the easiest method!)

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Crumble the oat mixture evenly over the top of the peach filling. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the topping turns lightly golden around the edges. Once finished, remove from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Enjoy your peach crisp warm! It’s delightful on its own or paired with vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

How to Serve Peach Crisp

Serving Peach Crisp is an enjoyable experience that allows for creativity and personalization. This warm, comforting dessert can be paired with a variety of accompaniments to enhance its flavor and texture.

Classic Pairings

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully on top of warm peach crisp, creating a delightful contrast.
• Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a sweet touch that complements the richness of the dish.

Fruity Additions

• Fresh Berries: Adding fresh strawberries or blueberries brings a burst of tartness that balances the sweetness of the peaches.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over your peach crisp adds an indulgent layer of flavor.

Creative Twists

• Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt offers a tangy twist while also adding protein to your dessert.
• Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft peaches.

How to Perfect Peach Crisp

To make the best Peach Crisp, consider these helpful tips. Perfecting this classic dessert will ensure it’s loved by all who try it!

• Peaches: Use ripe, juicy peaches for maximum flavor. Fresh fruits make all the difference in this dessert.
• Evenly Slice: Thinly slice your peaches for even cooking. This ensures that every bite has the perfect texture.
• Chill Butter: For a crumbly topping, chill your butter before mixing it with dry ingredients. Cold butter creates a flakier texture.
• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add spices like nutmeg or ginger for added depth in flavor. This can elevate your peach crisp immensely.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your peach crisp while it bakes. Ovens vary, so look for golden edges to know when it’s done.
• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to rest for 10 minutes after baking helps it set up perfectly. This makes serving easier without losing shape.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Crisp

Peach Crisp is delicious on its own, but pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken: A light grilled chicken breast provides a savory contrast to the sweet peach crisp.
2. Salad Greens: A simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette offers freshness and balances out the richness of dessert.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, particularly creamy varieties like Brie, pairs well with sweet flavors.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a hearty component to your meal, making it feel more complete.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs provides a neutral base that complements sweet desserts well.
6. Bread Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up any leftover juices from the peach crisp, enhancing every bite!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peach Crisp, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect dessert.

• Using unripe peaches: Using hard or unripe peaches can lead to a less flavorful dessert. Choose fresh, ripe peaches for the best taste.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can affect the texture and sweetness. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure precision.
• Skipping the cooling time: Serving immediately can result in a runny texture. Allow the Peach Crisp to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.
• Overbaking the topping: Baking too long can make the topping hard instead of crispy. Keep an eye on it, aiming for a light golden color.
• Neglecting to add salt: Salt enhances flavor, so skipping it can make your crisp bland. A pinch of salt balances the sweetness perfectly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Peach Crisp in an airtight container.
• It will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Peach Crisp

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• Frozen Peach Crisp can be kept for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peach Crisp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on high for about 30-60 seconds; check and adjust as needed.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Peach Crisp.

What type of peaches are best for Peach Crisp?

Fresh, ripe yellow or white peaches work best for this recipe due to their sweet flavor and juicy texture.

Can I use frozen peaches for Peach Crisp?

Yes! If using frozen peaches, thaw them first and drain excess liquid before mixing with other ingredients.

How can I make Peach Crisp healthier?

You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar and use oats that are gluten-free if needed for a healthier option.

What should I serve with Peach Crisp?

Peach Crisp pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a comforting dessert experience.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and topping separately and assemble them just before baking for fresh results.

Final Thoughts

Peach Crisp is an easy yet delicious dessert that everyone will love. Its warm, comforting flavors make it ideal for any occasion. Feel free to customize with spices or add nuts for extra crunch. Enjoy this delightful dish all summer long!