Peach Crisp

Old-fashioned Peach Crisp is the perfect dessert to celebrate the end of summer. This delightful recipe showcases juicy fresh peaches, enhanced with cinnamon and sugar, all topped with a buttery, rolled oat crisp. Ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish is easy to prepare and undeniably delicious. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a treat that will impress everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip this up in no time.
• Savory Sweetness: The combination of sweet peaches and warm spices creates a flavor explosion.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with ice cream, yogurt, or whipped cream.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: This dessert shines at family dinners, potlucks, or casual get-togethers.
• Healthy Twist: Using fresh fruits and oats makes this dessert healthier than many others.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Peach Crisp, gather your kitchen essentials. Having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan (9×9): This size ensures even baking for your Peach Crisp, allowing it to cook thoroughly.
• Mixing bowls: Large bowls help combine ingredients easily without mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools are great for mixing without scratching your bowls.

Ingredients

To create this scrumptious Peach Crisp, you’ll need 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

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Peach Crisp.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Butter a 9×9 baking pan generously 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 everything is well combined. Pour this peach mixture into the prepared baking pan.

Step 3: Make the Topping

In the same large bowl used for the peach filling, cream together the brown sugar, remaining ½ cup flour, room temperature butter, and remaining teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix until you achieve a wet clumpy texture. Then add in the oats and stir until you form a coarse mixture. For best results, use your hands to combine.

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 oats turn lightly golden around the edges. Once done, remove from oven and let cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Enjoy your warm Peach Crisp on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

How to Serve Peach Crisp

Peach Crisp is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the warm, juicy peaches and crunchy oat topping.

Add Fresh Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream adds a touch of sweetness and richness that enhances the flavors of the crisp.

Top with Greek Yogurt

• For a healthier option, serve Peach Crisp with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt. Its tartness balances the sweetness of the dessert nicely.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the crisp provides an extra layer of indulgence that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Serve alongside fresh berries such as raspberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast to the warm peach filling.

Enjoy with a Cup of Tea or Coffee

• A warm cup of tea or coffee makes an excellent beverage pairing, enhancing the comforting experience of enjoying Peach Crisp.

How to Perfect Peach Crisp

Creating the perfect Peach Crisp requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results!

• Use ripe peaches: Choose peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for maximum juiciness and flavor.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste your peaches before adding sugar; if they’re particularly sweet, you can reduce the granulated sugar in the recipe.
• Add spices: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger for added warmth and complexity in flavor.
• Mind the baking time: Keep an eye on your crisp while it bakes; remove it from the oven once the oats are lightly golden to avoid overbaking.
• Let it rest: Allowing your Peach Crisp to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely for serving.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to mix in nuts or coconut flakes into your oat topping for additional texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Crisp

Peach Crisp pairs well with several accompaniments that enhance its deliciousness. Consider these options when planning your meal!

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that adds creaminess and complements the fruitiness of Peach Crisp.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and fruity side that balances out the richness of the dessert.
3. Cheese Plate: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast to sweet flavors.
4. Nut Mix: A simple mix of nuts offers a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with soft peaches.
5. Crusty Bread: Serve slices of crusty bread on the side for those who enjoy dipping into their dessert.
6. Granola Parfait: Layered granola, yogurt, and fresh fruits create a delightful alternative treat that pairs nicely with Peach Crisp.
7. Cinnamon Sugar Chips: Baked tortilla chips sprinkled with cinnamon sugar provide a crunchy, sweet addition to your dessert table.
8. Herbed Salad: A light salad dressed in vinaigrette can refresh your palate after enjoying this rich dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peach Crisp, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time.

• Using unripe peaches: Unripe peaches won’t provide the sweet and juicy flavor needed for a great crisp. Always choose ripe, fresh peaches for the best taste.
• Overmixing the topping: Overmixing can lead to a dense topping rather than a light and crumbly texture. Mix until just combined for optimal results.
• Skipping the resting period: Allowing your Peach Crisp to rest after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve. Don’t rush this step!
• Not adjusting sugar levels: Depending on the sweetness of your peaches, you may need to adjust the sugar. Taste your filling before baking and modify as needed.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at too high or low of a temperature can affect the cooking time and crispiness. Stick to the recommended 400°F for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Cool completely before refrigerating to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Peach Crisp

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze before baking if possible.

Reheating Peach Crisp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on high for about 1-2 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peach Crisp.

How do I know when my Peach Crisp is done?

Your Peach Crisp is done when the topping is golden brown and the peaches are bubbling around the edges.

Can I use frozen peaches for Peach Crisp?

Yes, frozen peaches can be used. Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before mixing with other ingredients.

What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?

You can substitute coconut oil or vegan butter if you prefer a dairy-free option without sacrificing flavor.

Are there any variations I can try with Peach Crisp?

Absolutely! You can mix in other fruits like berries or apples, or add nuts and spices like nutmeg for added flavor.

How do I make Peach Crisp healthier?

To make it healthier, reduce the sugar content, use whole grain oats, or substitute with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Final Thoughts

Peach Crisp is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion! Its simple preparation allows you to customize it with various fruits or toppings based on your preferences. Whether enjoyed warm alone or topped with ice cream, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. Give it a try today!