Peach Crisp

Old-fashioned Peach Crisp is a delightful dessert that brings the taste of summer right to your table. This easy-to-make recipe highlights fresh peaches, making it perfect for warm evenings or any special occasion. With its comforting cinnamon aroma and a crunchy oatmeal topping, it’s a treat everyone will love. Serve it warm, and watch it quickly become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it suitable for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet peaches and cinnamon creates a mouthwatering taste that delights the senses.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
• Seasonal Freshness: Using fresh peaches ensures each bite bursts with flavor, perfect for summer gatherings or cozy fall nights.
• Family-Friendly: This dessert is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it ideal for family dinners or celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Peach Crisp, having the right tools on hand will streamline your baking process. Below are essential tools you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan (9×9)
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan (9×9): The perfect size for evenly baking your crisp, ensuring every bite is golden brown.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess, allowing you to mix your peach filling and oat topping efficiently.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor balance in your dessert.

Ingredients

For this delicious Peach Crisp, gather the following 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, mix together the sliced peaches, granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and salt until well combined. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking pan.

Step 3: Make the Oat Topping

In the same large bowl used for the peach filling, cream together the brown sugar, remaining ½ cup flour, butter, and remaining teaspoon of cinnamon until it forms a wet clumpy mixture. Add in the oats and stir until everything is well mixed. You can use your hands for easier mixing.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Crumble the oat topping evenly over the peach mixture in the pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the oats turn a light golden color around the edges. Once baked, remove from the oven and let rest for about 10 minutes to cool slightly.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Serve your warm Peach Crisp as is or topped with vanilla ice cream for an extra treat! Enjoy every delicious bite!

How to Serve Peach Crisp

Peach Crisp is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it classic or with a twist, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Classic Serving

• Serve warm straight from the oven for a comforting treat.

A la Mode

• Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of warm and cold.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an airy texture that complements the peaches.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of sweetness and richness.

Garnished with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.

Paired with Yogurt

• Serve alongside Greek yogurt for a tangy balance to the sweet crisp.

How to Perfect Peach Crisp

Creating the perfect Peach Crisp involves attention to detail and a few simple tricks. Follow these tips to ensure your dessert turns out amazing every time.

• Choose ripe peaches – Select fresh, ripe peaches for the best flavor and juiciness.
• Use a mix of sweeteners – Combining granulated sugar and brown sugar enhances depth in sweetness.
• Don’t skip the cinnamon – This spice adds warmth and complements the sweetness of the peaches beautifully.
• Let it cool slightly before serving – Allowing your Peach Crisp to rest helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Crisp

Pairing your Peach Crisp with delicious side dishes can enhance the overall dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement this fruity delight.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the tartness of the peaches.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad – A light, refreshing option that adds variety and brightness to your dessert table.
3. Shortbread Cookies – These buttery cookies provide a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of Peach Crisp.
4. Cheese Plate – Offer some mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory touch alongside sweet flavors.
5. Coffee or Tea – A warm beverage rounds out the meal perfectly, providing comfort after a rich dessert.
6. Chocolate Bark – The richness of dark chocolate offers an indulgent side that pairs well with fruits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect Peach Crisp, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the taste and texture.

• Using unripe peaches – Unripe fruit lacks sweetness and flavor. Always choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best results.
• Skipping the cornstarch – Cornstarch helps thicken the peach juices as they cook. Forgetting it can result in a watery dessert. Always include it in your mixture.
• Overmixing the topping – Overmixing can lead to a dense topping instead of a light, crumbly one. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
• Not letting it cool – Diving into your crisp too quickly can result in a mushy texture. Allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking to set up perfectly.
• Using cold butter – Cold butter won’t mix well into your topping and can lead to uneven crumbles. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Peach Crisp in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure it has cooled completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Peach Crisp

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for long-term storage, up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Peach Crisp

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat individual servings on high for about 30-60 seconds until hot.
• Stovetop – Place on low heat in a skillet covered with a lid, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peach Crisp.

How do I make my Peach Crisp healthier?

You can reduce sugar by using less granulated or brown sugar and adding more cinnamon for flavor. Consider using whole grain oats for added nutrition.

Can I substitute other fruits for peaches?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with other fruits like apples, berries, or even plums. Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose.

How do I know when my Peach Crisp is done baking?

Look for a bubbly filling and a golden-brown topping. It should be fragrant and visibly cooked around the edges.

What is the best way to serve Peach Crisp?

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with whipped cream on top. It’s delicious either way!

Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them beforehand and drain excess liquid to avoid a watery crisp.

Final Thoughts

Peach Crisp is not just an easy dessert; it’s also incredibly versatile! Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or other spices according to your taste preferences. This delightful dish is perfect for any occasion, so give this recipe a try and enjoy its warmth and flavors!