Peach Crisp Recipe

If you have a love for all things fruity and comfort-foody, then this Peach Crisp will quickly become your go-to dessert for every season. Bursting with juicy, tender peaches under a satisfyingly crunchy oat topping, the Peach Crisp marries sweetness, spice, and buttery richness in every bite. Whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet night in, this comforting dish feels like a warm hug on a plate and is surprisingly simple to make with fresh, wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the perfect Peach Crisp means gathering a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in balancing flavor and texture. From the natural sweetness of fresh peaches to the cozy warmth of cinnamon and the satisfying crunch of oats, every item on this list makes magic happen.

• Fresh peaches (8 cups peeled and thinly sliced): The star of the dish, their juiciness and natural sweetness make all the difference.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup): Adds the right touch of sweetness to the peach filling.
• All-purpose flour (½ cup + 2 tablespoons, divided): Helps thicken the filling and provides structure in the crisp topping.
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Works alongside flour to keep the peach juices perfectly set and not too runny.
• Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons, divided): Brings warm spice notes that pair beautifully with peaches.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Light brown sugar (¾ cup packed): Adds depth and a hint of molasses flavor to the topping.
• Salted butter (½ cup or 1 stick, room temperature): Makes the oat topping tender, flavorful, and golden.
• Old-fashioned oats (1 ¾ cups): Provide that irresistible chewiness and crunch in the crisp layer.

How to Make Peach Crisp

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Begin by heating your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s nice and hot. While it warms, butter a 9×9-inch baking pan thoroughly so the Peach Crisp won’t stick and will develop a lovely golden crust along the edges. Setting up your pan ahead of time helps keep the whole process smooth and stress-free.

Step 2: Mix the Peach Filling

Next, grab a large bowl and combine the peeled and sliced peaches with granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of the flour, cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and the salt. Stir everything gently so that the peaches are coated evenly but still keep their shape. This mixture is what gives the Peach Crisp its juicy and delightfully cinnamon-kissed fruit layer.

Step 3: Make the Crisp Topping

Using the same bowl (to save on dishes), cream together the brown sugar, the remaining ½ cup of flour, softened butter, and the second teaspoon of cinnamon. The mixture should become wet and clumpy—this is vital for that classic crisp texture. Stir in the oats until the whole thing is combined; your hands are actually the best tools here to form those rustic crumbles!

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Spread your luscious peach filling evenly in the prepared baking pan. Then crumble the oat topping on top like you’re sprinkling a little magic. Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for the oat topping to turn a gorgeous light golden color, signaling that crispy perfection. Once done, remove it and let it rest for about 10 minutes so the filling thickens and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

This Peach Crisp shines brightest when served warm from the oven. It’s a dream experience to pair it with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, but even by itself, the combination of tender peaches and crunchy topping will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds!).

How to Serve Peach Crisp

Garnishes

While Peach Crisp is perfectly delightful on its own, elevating it with a few thoughtful garnishes can truly make your presentation stand out. A scoop of cold vanilla ice cream melts smoothly into the warm topping, while a dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance. For some extra color and freshness, sprinkle finely chopped toasted pecans or a few fresh mint leaves on top.

Side Dishes

This Peach Crisp is a dessert that pairs wonderfully with simple sides when you’re serving a larger meal. Consider offering it alongside a fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette if it’s served as part of a casual summer brunch. If it’s dessert after dinner, rich beverages like a cup of spiced tea, coffee, or even a glass of sweet Riesling wind down the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not try serving the Peach Crisp in individual ramekins for a charming touch? Layer the filling and crumble topping separately for each guest, allowing them to see the rustic textures. Another fun presentation is offering a build-your-own station with toppings such as whipped cream, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of honey to let everyone customize their portion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Peach Crisp left over (and hopefully you do), store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will develop even more after sitting, and the topping may soften slightly but remains delicious. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

This Peach Crisp freezes wonderfully, making it a fantastic dessert to prep in advance. Assemble the entire dish, bake it if you like or freeze it unbaked, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap followed by foil to avoid freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake if it wasn’t baked before, or reheat if it was.

Reheating

To reheat your Peach Crisp, place it in a 350°F oven uncovered for about 15 minutes or until it’s warmed through and the topping regains some of its crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that lovely crunchy texture, but if you’re short on time, heating in short bursts works as well.

FAQs

Can I use frozen peaches for Peach Crisp?

Absolutely! Frozen peaches can work wonderfully, especially out of season. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess juice before mixing so your filling doesn’t become too watery.

Is it possible to make this Peach Crisp gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and make sure to use gluten-free oats if you’re highly sensitive. This way, you keep that signature crispness without gluten.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the Peach Crisp?

Definitely. You can reduce the sugar slightly if your peaches are very ripe and sweet, or add a little extra sugar or honey if you prefer it sweeter. Balancing sweetness to your personal taste is part of the fun.

What can I substitute for butter in the topping?

For a dairy-free version, you can swap butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture will vary slightly but remain delicious.

How do I know when the Peach Crisp is done baking?

The topping should be lightly golden around the edges and feel firm to the touch. The peach filling will bubble gently in the center, signaling that all those juices have thickened nicely.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly comforting and joyful about making and sharing a homemade Peach Crisp. The harmony of sweet, juicy peaches and the buttery, crunchy oat topping is a timeless classic you’ll want to make again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this delicious, heartwarming dessert. Your taste buds will thank you!

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