Peach Crisp

Old-fashioned Peach Crisp is the perfect dessert for any occasion! This delightful dish brings together juicy peaches and a buttery oatmeal topping, creating a warm and comforting treat that everyone will love. Whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy night in, or an end-of-summer celebration, this Peach Crisp is sure to impress with its simple preparation and indulgent flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious dessert that requires minimal effort.
• Fresh and Flavorful – The combination of sweet peaches and warm spices creates a taste sensation that showcases seasonal fruits beautifully.
• Customizable Topping – You can easily adjust the sweetness or add nuts and seeds to the oat topping for an added crunch.
• Perfect for Sharing – This recipe serves six, making it ideal for gatherings or potlucks.
• Delicious Warm or Cold – Enjoy it fresh from the oven with ice cream, or savor the leftovers chilled the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious Peach Crisp, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×9 baking pan – The right size ensures even cooking and allows for easy serving.
• Mixing bowls – A variety of sizes help in mixing ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Measuring cups & spoons – Accurate measurements are key to achieving perfect flavors in your dessert.

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 (200°C). Butter a 9×9 baking pan, ensuring it’s well coated to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Peach Filling

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the sliced peaches, granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and salt.
2. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Pour this peach mixture into your prepared baking pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Oat Topping

In the same large bowl:
1. Cream together the brown sugar, remaining ½ cup flour, room temperature butter, and remaining teaspoon of cinnamon until you achieve a wet, clumpy texture.
2. Add old-fashioned oats to the mixture and stir until combined. Use your hands for best results if needed.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Crumble the oat mixture evenly over the peach filling in the baking pan.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes, until the oats turn light golden around the edges.
3. Once baked, remove from oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to cool before serving.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your warm Peach Crisp on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired. Enjoy this delightful dessert!

How to Serve Peach Crisp

Serving Peach Crisp is a delightful experience that can elevate this simple dessert to new heights. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy your Peach Crisp.

Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream

• Scoop a generous portion of vanilla ice cream on top of warm Peach Crisp for a classic combination. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the warm, juicy fruit.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce adds a touch of sweetness and richness to the dish. It enhances the flavors without overpowering the peaches.

Add Fresh Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream is an excellent addition. It provides a fluffy texture that complements the crisp topping perfectly.

Serve with Fresh Berries

• Accompanying your Peach Crisp with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries adds a burst of flavor and color. They offer a refreshing twist.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• A few fresh mint leaves not only look appealing but also add a hint of freshness that balances the sweetness of the dessert.

How to Perfect Peach Crisp

Perfecting your Peach Crisp takes just a few simple tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time.

• Choose ripe peaches: The key to great flavor is using ripe, juicy peaches. Look for firm peaches that yield slightly to pressure.
• Adjust sugar levels: Depending on the sweetness of your peaches, you may want to adjust the amount of sugar in your recipe. Taste your peach mixture before baking.
• Use cold butter: For a crumbly topping, make sure your butter is cold when mixing it with oats and sugars. This helps create that desirable texture.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your crisp as it bakes. You want the topping golden brown but not burnt, typically around 20-25 minutes at 400°F.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Crisp

Pairing side dishes with Peach Crisp can enhance your dessert experience and provide balance to the meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Salad
   A light salad with grilled chicken, mixed greens, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a healthy contrast to the sweetness of Peach Crisp.
2. Roasted Vegetables
   Roasted seasonal vegetables can provide savory depth alongside the sweetness of the dessert, making for a well-rounded meal.
3. Quinoa Pilaf
   This nutty grain dish pairs well with sweet desserts due to its hearty texture and mild flavor profile.
4. Creamy Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw brings freshness and crunch that complements the soft texture of Peach Crisp nicely.
5. Cheese Platter
   An assortment of cheeses can be served as an appetizer or alongside dessert, offering a savory contrast to the sweet peaches.
6. Fruit Salad
   A simple fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits can lighten up your meal while echoing flavors found in Peach Crisp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Peach Crisp is easy, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect Peach Ripeness: Using under ripe or overripe peaches can affect the flavor and texture. Always select fresh, juicy peaches that yield slightly when pressed.
• Skipping the Cinnamon: Not adding cinnamon may result in a bland dessert. This spice enhances the peach flavor, so be sure to include it in both the filling and topping.
• Neglecting to Butter the Pan: Failing to butter the baking pan can lead to sticking. Generously grease your pan before adding the peach mixture to ensure easy serving.
• Overbaking the Crisp: Baking for too long may cause the topping to burn. Keep an eye on it and remove from the oven when it’s lightly golden around the edges.
• Serving Too Hot: Serving right out of the oven might make it difficult to enjoy. Let your Peach Crisp cool for about 10 minutes before serving for better flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Peach Crisp

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peach Crisp

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peach Crisp.

How do I make Peach Crisp with oatmeal topping?

To make Peach Crisp with an oatmeal topping, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon. Crumble this mixture over sliced peaches before baking.

Can I use frozen peaches for my Peach Crisp?

Yes! Frozen peaches can be used; just thaw them first and drain excess liquid before mixing with sugar and other ingredients.

What can I substitute for brown sugar in Peach Crisp?

You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or granulated sugar mixed with a bit of molasses if desired.

Is Peach Crisp healthy?

Peach Crisp can be made healthier by reducing sugar or using whole grain oats. Fresh peaches also provide vitamins and fiber.

Final Thoughts

Peach Crisp is an irresistible dessert that combines juicy peaches with a crunchy oat topping. It’s versatile too; feel free to add nuts or swap in other fruits like berries or apples based on your taste. Try making this delightful recipe today!