There’s something truly delightful about the sweetness and warmth that a homemade dessert brings to a summer gathering. Picture this: as I preheat my oven, the fragrant scent of ripe peaches fills the kitchen, instantly transporting me to sun-soaked orchards on lazy afternoons. This Easy Peach Crisp recipe captures the essence of summer, combining juicy, tangy peaches with a buttery, crunchy oat topping that sings of comfort and nostalgia. Best of all, it requires minimal prep, allowing me to whip it up just in time for impromptu gatherings or cozy evenings at home. For an indulgent touch, I love to serve it warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist. Join me in creating this sweet summer delight that promises to be a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re enjoying it alone or sharing it with loved ones!
Why is Easy Peach Crisp a Must-Try?
Irresistible Aroma: The sweet scent of baking peaches will fill your home, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Simplicity: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this dessert effortlessly.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for gatherings, it appeals to both young and old, making it a family favorite.
Customizable: Add nuts or other fruits to tailor it to your taste, ensuring every bite is unique.
Warm & Comforting: The combination of warm peaches and crunchy topping makes each serving a cozy delight, especially when served with ice cream.
Easy Peach Crisp Ingredients
For the Topping
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and aids in browning; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Old Fashioned Rolled Oats – Adds texture and a chewy element to the topping; quick oats can be used but may yield a softer texture.
- All-Purpose Flour – Helps to bind the topping together; can be substituted with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Dark Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a deeper caramel flavor; light brown sugar is a suitable alternative.
- Cinnamon – Adds warming spice and flavor depth; you can omit it or use nutmeg for a unique twist.
- Sea Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor; kosher salt works well if preferred.
For the Peach Filling
- Med-Large Peaches – The star ingredient, providing juicy, ripe fruit flavor; substitute with nectarines or apples if needed.
- Cornstarch – Helps thicken the peach filling; use tapioca flour for a gluten-free alternative.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the fruit filling; feel free to reduce the amount for a lighter sweetness.
- Vanilla – Adds aromatic flavor to the filling; use vanilla extract or the seeds from a vanilla bean for gourmet flair.
Now that you have all the ingredients lined up, get ready to create a delicious Easy Peach Crisp that will bring joy to your summer table!
How to Make Easy Peach Crisp
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet (or an 8-9 inch pan) with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to ensure an easy release after baking.
- Brown ½ cup of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it foams and the milk solids turn golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare 6 med-large peaches by slicing or dicing them and removing the pits. In a bowl, combine the peaches with cornstarch, granulated sugar, and vanilla; toss to coat evenly.
- Mix the topping by combining old fashioned rolled oats, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, dark brown sugar, and sea salt in a separate bowl. Stir until well combined.
- Combine the cooled browned butter with the dry mixture, stirring until everything is evenly coated. This will create a deliciously rich topping.
- Layer the coated peaches in the prepared skillet, then evenly spread the oat topping over the top. Make sure it covers the peaches well for a crunchy finish.
- Bake in the center of the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes. If the topping darkens too much before the peaches are bubbly, cover the dish loosely with foil.
- Cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to thicken up nicely. Serve warm, ideally with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Optional: Drizzle with a little honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Peach Crisp preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy days! You can slice and toss the peaches with cornstarch, granulated sugar, and vanilla up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Additionally, the oat topping can be mixed and stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply layer the peaches in the skillet, sprinkle the topping over, and pop it into the oven. This approach ensures you have a delicious dessert on hand with minimal effort and just as delightful flavor to share with family and friends!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Peach Crisp
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Easy Peach Crisp fresh for up to 2 hours after baking. It’s best served warm, so try to avoid leaving it out too long.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it with foil or plastic wrap to maintain moisture.
Freezer: To freeze, let the peach crisp cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for about 30-60 seconds to enjoy that comforting taste again!
Expert Tips for Easy Peach Crisp
- Choose Ripe Peaches: A key to the best flavor is selecting ripe, juicy peaches. If you have unripe ones, place them in a brown paper bag for 1-3 days to help ripen.
- Even Topping Distribution: To ensure uniform cooking, make sure the oat topping is evenly spread over the peaches. This prevents some areas from becoming too dry while others are soggy.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow your Easy Peach Crisp to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld and lets the juices thicken, creating a perfect consistency.
- Watch the Butter: When browning butter, stay close to the stove. The process can go from golden to burnt quickly, so stir regularly and remove from heat as soon as it reaches a nice brown color.
- Serving Suggestions: For a delightful twist, serve with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup over the top before adding that generous scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Easy Peach Crisp Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own; each twist amplifies the deliciousness!
- Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or almonds to the topping for extra texture. The added crunch elevates each bite beautifully.
- Berry Bliss: Substitute peaches with 4 cups of mixed summer berries for a delightful twist. Blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries blend seamlessly for a vibrant flavor explosion.
- Coconut Delight: Stir in ½ cup of shredded coconut into the topping for a tropical flair. Its subtle sweetness pairs perfectly with the peaches.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the peach filling for an unexpected spicy twist. This unique flavor combination adds warmth and excitement.
- Brown Sugar Swap: Use maple sugar instead of dark brown sugar for a lighter, more nuanced sweetness. This substitution brings a warm, caramel-like flavor with a hint of maple.
- Honey Drizzle: Replace granulated sugar in the filling with honey for a naturally sweet option. The floral notes from honey elevate the peaches beautifully.
- Crispy Oat Variation: Experiment with half rolled oats and half granola in the topping for added crunch and flavor diversity. This mix creates an enticing, crumbly texture.
- Peach & Basil: Incorporate some fresh basil chopped finely into the peach filling for a refreshing herbal note. This unexpected combination will surprise your taste buds.
What to Serve with Easy Peach Crisp?
Imagine delighting your guests with a complete meal that enhances your delicious peach crisp and leaves everyone craving more.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the warm, fruity crisp with its creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds an elegant touch, enhancing the crisp without overpowering it.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: Their vibrant color and refreshing taste brighten up the dessert while adding a touch of sophistication.
- Grilled Chicken Salad: A savory side, this salad balances the sweet dessert, leaving a satisfying contrast in every bite.
- Light White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Moscato enhances fruity flavors while keeping your palate refreshed during warm evenings.
- Peach Bellini: A delightful cocktail, this bubbly drink echoes the peach flavor in the crisp, creating a cohesive experience for your guests.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness of the peach crisp.
- Coffee or Espresso: Rich and bold, these drinks offer a comforting ending to your meal, beautifully contrasting with the sweet notes of the dessert.
- Lemon Sorbet: This refreshing palate cleanser is perfect for summer, pairing well with the warm peach crisp while adding an extra citrusy pop.
Easy Peach Crisp Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe peaches for this recipe?
Absolutely! Choosing ripe peaches is key to a delicious Easy Peach Crisp. Look for peaches that are firm yet slightly soft to the touch, with a sweet aroma. Avoid those with dark spots or bruises, as they may be overripe. If your peaches are still unripe, place them in a brown paper bag at room temperature for 1-3 days until they soften.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover Easy Peach Crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you plan to enjoy it later, letting it cool before storing will help maintain the texture. Warm it up in the oven or microwave before serving for that fresh-baked taste!
Can I freeze Easy Peach Crisp?
Absolutely, you can freeze it! Allow the crisp to cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if the topping is too dark before the peaches are cooked?
No worries! If you notice the topping starting to darken too much during baking, cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This will prevent burning while allowing the peaches to continue cooking perfectly. Just keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to ensure everything is done just right.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use certified gluten-free oats. If you have dairy allergies, coconut oil can replace unsalted butter. Be mindful of any nut allergies if you plan to add nuts to the topping. Always double-check ingredient labels for any hidden allergens to keep everyone safe and happy!
These Easy Peach Crisp Recipe FAQs will hopefully answer your burning questions and help you create that perfect crisp every time!
Easy Peach Crisp Recipe: Your Summer Dessert Win!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet (or an 8-9 inch pan) with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.
- Brown ½ cup of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it foams and the milk solids turn golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare 6 med-large peaches by slicing or dicing them and removing the pits. In a bowl, combine the peaches with cornstarch, granulated sugar, and vanilla; toss to coat evenly.
- Mix the topping by combining old fashioned rolled oats, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, dark brown sugar, and sea salt in a separate bowl. Stir until well combined.
- Combine the cooled browned butter with the dry mixture, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
- Layer the coated peaches in the prepared skillet, then evenly spread the oat topping over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes. If the topping darkens too much, cover with foil.
- Cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
