Peach Crisp

Old-fashioned Peach Crisp is a delightful dessert that brings together the sweetness of fresh peaches and a crunchy oat topping. Perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or just a cozy night in, this recipe showcases the natural flavors of peaches paired with warm spices. The combination of juicy fruit and buttery oats makes it an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This Peach Crisp comes together in just 40 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute dessert.
• Fresh and Flavorful: Using fresh peaches ensures that each bite bursts with natural sweetness and flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm on its own or top it with vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to mix in other fruits like berries or apples to create your own unique twist on this classic dish.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a picnic, a potluck, or a family dinner, this dessert is sure to impress.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Peach Crisp, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9 baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: A good-quality 9×9 baking pan evenly distributes heat for consistent baking results.
• Mixing Bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls allows you to combine ingredients without cross-contamination or mess.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your Peach Crisp.

Ingredients

To create this delectable 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 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. Grease your 9×9 baking pan with butter and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Peach Mixture

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

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 until you form a wet clumpy mixture. Add the old-fashioned oats to this mixture and stir until it’s coarse. It can be helpful to use your hands here for better mixing.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Spread the oat mixture evenly over the peach layer in your baking pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes or until you see a light golden color appearing around the edges. Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Enjoy your Peach Crisp warm on its own or topped with vanilla ice cream if desired!

How to Serve Peach Crisp

Peach Crisp is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways. Whether you want to keep it classic or try something new, here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your Peach Crisp experience.

Classic with Ice Cream

• Serve warm Peach Crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a creamy contrast to the warm, juicy peaches.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream to your Peach Crisp for an airy and sweet complement to the dish.

Fresh Mint Garnish

• Top your serving with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a refreshing taste that balances the sweetness.

Yogurt Drizzle

• Swap out ice cream for a drizzle of Greek yogurt, adding tanginess and creaminess that pairs beautifully with the peaches.

Caramel Sauce Drizzle

• For an indulgent option, drizzle warm caramel sauce over your Peach Crisp before serving to enhance its sweetness.

Nutty Crunch

• Sprinkle some toasted nuts, like pecans or almonds, on top of each serving for an extra layer of crunch and flavor contrast.

How to Perfect Peach Crisp

To achieve the ultimate Peach Crisp, follow these simple tips that will enhance its flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches bring out the best flavor. Avoid overly firm or mushy peaches for optimal results.

• Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the ripeness of your peaches, adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe. Taste as you mix!

• Add Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for a more complex taste profile.

• Crispy Topping: Ensure that your oat topping is well mixed and clumps together slightly; this creates that desired crunchy texture when baked.

• Let It Rest: Allow the baked Peach Crisp to sit for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps it set up nicely before serving.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other fruits like blueberries or raspberries into the peach mixture for added depth and variety.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Crisp

Pairing side dishes with your Peach Crisp can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken: Tender grilled chicken seasoned simply complements the sweetness of Peach Crisp without overpowering it.

2. Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with light dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of dessert.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and makes an excellent side dish alongside desserts.

4. Cheese Board: A small cheese platter featuring mild cheeses pairs wonderfully with fruit desserts like Peach Crisp.

5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs adds protein and balances out the sweetness while keeping it healthy.

6. Sweet Potatoes: Baked or mashed sweet potatoes provide earthy flavors that harmonize well with fruity desserts like this one.

7. Creamy Polenta: Soft, creamy polenta serves as a comforting base that contrasts nicely against the crispiness of your dessert.

8. Fruit Compote: A simple fruit compote made from berries adds another layer of fruitiness while enhancing presentation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Peach Crisp is easier than it looks, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skipping the peeling: Leaving the peach skins on can make your dessert tough and chewy. Always peel your peaches for a smoother texture.
• Boldly overmixing the topping: If you mix the topping too much, it can become dense. Just combine until crumbly to keep it light and airy.
• Boldly using unripe peaches: Unripe peaches lack flavor and sweetness. Choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best results.
• Boldly ignoring baking times: Each oven can vary, so check for doneness rather than relying solely on time. Look for a golden brown topping as your cue.
• Boldly neglecting to let it rest: Serving immediately can lead to a messy presentation. Allow your Peach Crisp to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Peach Crisp

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or use a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to label it!

Reheating Peach Crisp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for about 30-60 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peach Crisp.

What can I substitute for fresh peaches in Peach Crisp?

You can use frozen peaches if fresh ones are not available. Just thaw them first and adjust sugar accordingly.

How do I make Peach Crisp without oats?

You can skip oats entirely and use more flour or crushed nuts as a topping alternative.

Can I add other fruits to my Peach Crisp?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in berries or apples with peaches for added flavor.

What should I serve with Peach Crisp?

Peach Crisp pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Final Thoughts

This Peach Crisp recipe is a delightful dessert that combines juicy peaches with a crispy topping, making it a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or toppings according to your taste preferences!