Peach Crisp

Old-fashioned Peach Crisp is a delightful dessert that embodies the essence of summer with its juicy peaches and crunchy oat topping. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or simply enjoying a cozy night in. Not only is it delicious, but it also offers a wonderful way to use fresh peaches at their peak ripeness. With its warm, comforting flavors and simple preparation, this Peach Crisp will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dessert in no time.
• Deliciously Versatile: Serve it warm on its own or with ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• Seasonal Delight: Perfect for summer when peaches are at their best, bringing seasonal sweetness to your table.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit among friends and family, making it ideal for gatherings or celebrations.
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of cinnamon and brown sugar creates a warm aroma that fills your kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

To create this mouthwatering Peach Crisp, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9 baking pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife for slicing peaches

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×9 baking pan: The perfect size for even baking, ensuring your crisp cooks thoroughly.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to mix all ingredients without spilling.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for combining ingredients effectively while being gentle on your baking pan.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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
– 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

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Butter a 9×9 baking pan, and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Peach Filling

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

Step 3: Make the Oat Topping

1. In the same large bowl, cream together the brown sugar, remaining ½ cup flour, butter, and remaining teaspoon of cinnamon.
2. Mix until it forms a wet clumpy mixture.
3. Add the old-fashioned oats to the mixture and stir until coarse. (Using your hands can make this easier.)

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

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

Step 5: Serve Warm

Serve your delicious Peach Crisp warm 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 many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your enjoyment of this delicious treat.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• A classic pairing, the creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the warm, juicy peaches perfectly.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add a touch of sweetness by drizzling caramel sauce over the warm crisp for a rich flavor boost.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream provides a lovely contrast to the warm peach filling and crunchy topping.

Accompanied by Fresh Berries

• Serve alongside fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a tart balance to the sweetness of the peach crisp.

With Greek Yogurt

• For a healthier option, spoon some Greek yogurt on top. It adds creaminess without overwhelming sweetness.

In a Parfait

• Layer peach crisp with yogurt and granola in a glass for a fun and visually appealing dessert parfait.

How to Perfect Peach Crisp

Making the perfect Peach Crisp is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to achieve that golden-brown topping and juicy filling.

• Use ripe peaches: Choose peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for optimal sweetness and juiciness.
• Don’t skip the cornstarch: This ingredient helps thicken the juices from the peaches, preventing a soggy bottom.
• Mix oats by hand: Mixing oat topping with your hands creates an ideal crumbly texture that bakes beautifully.
• Bake until golden: Keep an eye on the oven; remove your peach crisp when it’s lightly golden around the edges for best results.
• Let it rest: Allowing your peach crisp to sit for 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely before serving.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for extra flavor depth!

Best Side Dishes for Peach Crisp

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

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and contrasts nicely with the warm crisp.

2. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses can provide savory notes that balance out the sweetness of the dessert.

3. Homemade Biscotti
   Crunchy biscotti are perfect for dipping into the warm peach filling if served in small portions.

4. Chilled Lemonade
   The refreshing taste of lemonade cuts through the richness of the dessert, providing a zesty complement.

5. Coffee or Tea
   A cup of fresh coffee or herbal tea provides warmth and enhances the flavors of Peach Crisp beautifully.

6. Nutty Granola Bars
   These make for a wholesome addition, offering crunch and health benefits alongside your sweet treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peach Crisp, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using unripe peaches: Always choose ripe, sweet peaches for the best flavor. Unripe peaches will make your dessert less enjoyable.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is important! Use proper measuring tools to ensure your ratios of sugar, flour, and oats are correct for optimal texture.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the Peach Crisp to rest after baking helps it set up properly. Don’t skip this step if you want a perfect slice!
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your dessert while it bakes. Overbaking can lead to a dry topping and mushy filling, ruining the balance of flavors.
• Using cold butter: Soften the butter before mixing it into the oats. Cold butter can result in a crumbly topping instead of a nice, clumpy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep it at room temperature for no more than 2 hours after baking.

Freezing Peach Crisp

• Freeze in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Peach Crisp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, stir gently until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peach Crisp:

What is the best way to slice peaches for Peach Crisp?

To achieve even cooking, slice peaches into uniform pieces about 1/4 inch thick. This ensures all slices cook at the same rate.

Can I use frozen peaches for Peach Crisp?

Yes! Frozen peaches work well; just make sure they are thawed and drained before using them in your recipe.

How do I make Peach Crisp healthier?

Consider reducing the sugar or using coconut oil instead of butter. You can also substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.

What toppings pair well with Peach Crisp?

Vanilla ice cream is classic, but whipped cream or yogurt also complement this dessert beautifully!

How long does it take to bake Peach Crisp?

Bake your Peach Crisp at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly around the edges.

Final Thoughts

This Old-fashioned Peach Crisp is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding nuts or swapping out fruits based on what’s in season. Enjoy this cozy dessert warm or cold; either way, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser!