Peach Crisp

Old-fashioned Peach Crisp is the perfect dessert for any occasion. This delightful dish brings together fresh peaches, warm spices, and a crunchy oat topping, creating a comforting treat that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something sweet, this Peach Crisp will surely impress everyone at the table. Its unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout dessert that pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With just a few easy steps, you can create a delicious dessert without any fuss.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using ripe peaches ensures maximum flavor and sweetness in every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm on its own or with a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgent experience.
• Perfect for Any Season: While it shines in summer with fresh peaches, you can easily adapt it with frozen fruit during colder months.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dessert is sure to delight family and friends alike, making it ideal for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and equipment to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×9 baking pan: The right size for even baking and achieving that perfect crisp texture.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients thoroughly, ensuring uniform flavors throughout the dish.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to replicating this delicious Peach Crisp every time.

Ingredients

Old-fashioned Peach Crisp is a simple yet indulgent dessert recipe that everyone will adore! Fresh peaches are baked to juicy perfection with cinnamon, sugar, and a buttery, rolled oat topping. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and watch it disappear!

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. While it’s heating up, butter your 9×9 baking pan to prepare it for the peach mixture.

Step 2: Prepare the Peach Filling

In a large bowl, combine the following:
1. 8 cups peeled and sliced peaches
2. ½ cup granulated sugar
3. 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4. 1 tablespoon cornstarch
5. 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
6. ¼ teaspoon salt

Mix these ingredients together until well combined. Pour the peach mixture into your prepared baking pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Topping

In the same large bowl used for the filling:
1. Cream together:
– ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
– ½ cup all-purpose flour (remaining)
– ½ cup salted butter (room temperature)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (remaining)

Mix until it forms a wet, clumpy mixture.
2. Add:
– 1 ¾ cup old-fashioned oats

Stir until you have a coarse mixture; using your hands can make this easier.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Spread the oat topping evenly over the peach mixture in your baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the oats turn golden around the edges.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let your Peach Crisp rest for about 10 minutes before serving warm. Pair it with vanilla ice cream if desired for an extra treat!

How to Serve Peach Crisp

Peach Crisp is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to enhance its flavors or create a more elaborate presentation, here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your peach crisp experience.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the warm peach crisp perfectly, offering a sweet and cool contrast.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• For a touch of indulgence, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top for added sweetness and richness.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream adds an airy texture, making each bite of peach crisp even more enjoyable.

Served with Fresh Mint

• Garnishing with fresh mint leaves not only adds color but also a refreshing herbal note that balances the sweetness.

Accompanied by Greek Yogurt

• A dollop of Greek yogurt provides a tangy flavor that pairs well with the sweet peaches, creating a delicious contrast.

How to Perfect Peach Crisp

To ensure your Peach Crisp turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. They will guide you through achieving that ideal balance of flavors and textures.

• Use ripe peaches: Choose fresh, ripe peaches for the best flavor. Overripe or underripe peaches can affect the taste and texture.
• Adjust sugar levels: Depending on the sweetness of your peaches, you may want to adjust the sugar in the recipe for optimal flavor.
• Don’t skip the salt: Adding just a pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the dish.
• Crumb topping consistency: Mix until crumbly but not overly smooth; this helps create that desirable crunchy topping.
• Let it cool before serving: Allowing your peach crisp to rest after baking helps it set up and makes it easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Crisp

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

1. Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
   A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy balsamic dressing provides freshness and balances the sweetness.

2. Grilled Chicken Skewers
   Savory grilled chicken skewers complement the fruitiness of peach crisp while adding protein to your meal.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Roasted seasonal vegetables add depth to your menu, providing earthy flavors that contrast nicely with dessert.

4. Cheese Platter
   An assortment of cheeses can offer a savory counterpoint to sweet peach crisp; consider mild cheeses like brie or gouda.

5. Crusty Bread
   Serving crusty bread on the side is an excellent way to soak up any juices, making each bite even more delightful.

6. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad made from seasonal fruits enhances the fruity notes in peach crisp while keeping things light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peach Crisp can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can ruin the dish. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overmixing the Topping: Mixing too vigorously can lead to a tough topping. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed for a crumbly texture.
• Skipping Fresh Peaches: Using canned peaches can compromise flavor. Always opt for fresh, ripe peaches for the best taste and texture.
• Not Adjusting Sugar: Each peach variety has a different sweetness level. Taste your peaches and adjust the sugar accordingly to enhance the natural flavors.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
• Serving Immediately: Cutting into the crisp right after baking can make it fall apart. Allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving for better structure.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the Peach Crisp cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Peach Crisp

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peach Crisp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Peach Crisp:

Can I use frozen peaches for Peach Crisp?

You can use frozen peaches, but thaw them first and drain excess moisture to avoid sogginess.

How do I get a crispy topping on my Peach Crisp?

Make sure not to overmix the topping, as this keeps it crumbly and allows it to crisp up nicely while baking.

What other fruits can I use in Peach Crisp?

You can mix or substitute with other fruits like blueberries, apples, or cherries for a delicious twist.

Is Peach Crisp gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Peach Crisp, use certified gluten-free oats and flour substitutes.

Final Thoughts

Old-fashioned Peach Crisp is not just an easy dessert; it’s a comforting treat that brings joy to any gathering. With its warm, sweet filling and crunchy topping, this dessert is versatile enough for customization. Feel free to add nuts or spices like nutmeg for added flavor. Enjoy baking this delightful dish!