Peach Crisp

Old-fashioned Peach Crisp is a delightful dessert that brings a touch of nostalgia to any gathering. This dish showcases fresh peaches baked with warm spices and topped with a buttery oat mixture, making it perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or simply when you crave something sweet. Its simplicity and the combination of flavors will surely impress both friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious dessert that looks impressive.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of juicy peaches and warm cinnamon elevates this dish to a new level.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm on its own or pair it with vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this peach crisp fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make this baking process even smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9 baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: A good quality 9×9 baking pan ensures even cooking and easy serving.
• Mixing Bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls allows you to prepare ingredients separately without confusion.

Ingredients

For 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

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 thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. Pour this peach mixture into your prepared baking pan.

Step 3: Make the Oat Topping

In the same large bowl, cream together the brown sugar, remaining flour (½ cup), butter, and remaining teaspoon of cinnamon until you achieve a wet, clumpy mixture. Add in the old-fashioned oats and stir until it forms a coarse mixture. For best results, use your hands to mix everything together.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Crumble the oat topping evenly over the peach filling in the baking pan. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the topping turns light golden brown around the edges. Once done, remove from oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Enjoy your Peach Crisp warm by itself or topped with vanilla ice cream if desired!

How to Serve Peach Crisp

Peach Crisp is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it warm or cold, there are plenty of serving suggestions that will enhance your experience.

A La Mode

• Serve warm Peach Crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination. The creamy texture of the ice cream complements the warm, juicy peaches perfectly.

Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each serving with freshly whipped cream for an extra layer of sweetness and richness. This light addition balances the crisp topping beautifully.

With Yogurt

• For a healthier twist, serve Peach Crisp with a dollop of Greek yogurt. The tanginess of the yogurt pairs well with the sweetness of the peaches.

Nuts and Seeds

• Sprinkle chopped nuts or seeds over your Peach Crisp for added crunch and nutrition. Almonds or walnuts work particularly well.

Caramel Drizzle

• Drizzle some caramel sauce on top for those who like an indulgent treat. The sweetness of caramel enhances the flavors of the baked peaches.

Fresh Mint Garnish

• Add a few fresh mint leaves as a garnish before serving. This not only looks appealing but also adds a refreshing hint to each bite.

How to Perfect Peach Crisp

Creating the perfect Peach Crisp requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are some ways to elevate your dish to perfection.

• Choose ripe peaches: Select peaches that are slightly soft to the touch and fragrant for maximum sweetness and flavor.
• Use cold butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature but not melted; this helps create a crispy topping during baking.
• Don’t skip resting time: Letting your Peach Crisp sit for 10 minutes after baking allows it to set up nicely and makes serving easier.
• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to add other spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor profile.
• Add lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice enhances the brightness of the peaches, balancing their sweetness beautifully.
• Adjust sugar levels: Depending on your peach ripeness, you may want to adjust the sugar levels in both the filling and topping.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Crisp

Pairing side dishes with your Peach Crisp can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   Classic choice that complements the warmth and sweetness of Peach Crisp perfectly.
2. Greek Yogurt
   Adds tanginess and creaminess, making it a healthier option alongside your dessert.
3. Chocolate Sauce
   Drizzling chocolate sauce over Peach Crisp creates a rich contrast that chocolate lovers will enjoy.
4. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad can provide a lighter contrast to the rich flavors of Peach Crisp.
5. Granola
   Adding granola on top provides a crunchy texture that pairs well with soft baked peaches.
6. Cheese Plate
   A selection of cheeses can add savory elements that balance out the sweet notes from the crisp.
7. Chai Tea
   A warm cup of chai tea offers cozy spices that complement the cinnamon in your dessert beautifully.
8. Lemonade
   Refreshing lemonade provides a zesty counterpoint to the sweet flavors of Peach Crisp, making it a great drink pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peach Crisp can be a joyful experience, but some common mistakes can lead to disappointment. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using unripe peaches – Always select ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. Unripe peaches will not yield the same sweetness and texture in your crisp.
• Overmixing the topping – Mixing too much can lead to a dense topping. Blend just until combined for a light, crumbly texture.
• Skipping the resting time – Allowing the Peach Crisp to rest after baking helps it set up properly. Skipping this step can result in a soupy dessert.
• Not adjusting sugar levels – Depending on your peach ripeness, you may need more or less sugar. Taste and adjust accordingly before baking.
• Ignoring baking times – Each oven is different; keep an eye on your crisp as it bakes. Aim for golden edges to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Peach Crisp in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure it cools completely before sealing.

Freezing Peach Crisp

• For longer storage, freeze Peach Crisp in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Peach Crisp

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat individual portions on high for 30 seconds to 1 minute until hot.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Peach Crisp:

Can I use frozen peaches for Peach Crisp?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure they are thawed and drained of excess liquid before mixing.

How do I make Peach Crisp gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

What can I serve with Peach Crisp?

Peach Crisp pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even yogurt for a refreshing contrast.

Can I add other fruits to my Peach Crisp?

Absolutely! Mixing in berries like blueberries or raspberries adds extra flavor and color to your dessert.

How long does it take to make Peach Crisp?

The total time from prep to serving is about 40 minutes: 10 minutes of prep and 20-25 minutes of baking.

Final Thoughts

Peach Crisp is an incredibly versatile dessert that showcases the natural sweetness of fresh peaches. Its warm, gooey filling paired with a crunchy topping is irresistible! Feel free to customize this recipe by adding nuts or using different fruits based on your preferences. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!