Peach Crisp Recipe

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, impossibly cozy dessert, Peach Crisp is about to become your new obsession. This classic treat perfectly showcases lush, sun-ripened peaches tucked under a crunchy, cinnamon-kissed oatmeal streusel. The contrast of warm, jammy fruit with the golden, buttery topping is what summer dreams (or nostalgic cravings) are made of. From backyard BBQs to casual weeknight dinners, Peach Crisp delivers that homemade magic everyone secretly hopes to find at the dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Peach Crisp really shines when you use simple, everyday ingredients that let the fruit take center stage. Each element is chosen to bring out just the right balance of sweetness, texture, and irresistible aroma.

• Fresh peaches: The star of the show! Choose just-ripe peaches for perfect flavor and texture—too soft, and they’ll turn soggy when baked.
• Granulated sugar: Enhances the natural peach sweetness and helps create the luscious syrupy base.
• All-purpose flour: Divided between the filling and topping, it thickens the juices and crisps the streusel.
• Cornstarch: Ensures the fruit filling sets up just right—no soupy crisps here.
• Ground cinnamon: Warm spice that pairs so well with peaches and makes your kitchen smell heavenly.
• Salt: A touch is all you need to brighten the flavors and balance the sweetness.
• Light brown sugar: For that classic, caramel-like flavor in the crumble topping.
• Salted butter: Room temperature is key for a crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth topping.
• Old-fashioned oats: Adds texture and rustic charm—these make the crisp truly special.

How to Make Peach Crisp

Step 1: Prep the Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Generously butter a 9×9-inch baking pan—this not only prevents sticking but adds richness to every bite. Set the pan aside while you get everything else ready.

Step 2: Make the Peach Filling

In a large bowl, combine your thinly sliced peaches, granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of the flour, cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and salt. Toss until everything is coated and the peaches glisten with sugar and spice. Spread this glorious mixture into your prepared baking pan, making sure it’s evenly distributed.

Step 3: Prepare the Crisp Topping

Use the same bowl (less dishes—yay!) to cream together the brown sugar, remaining half cup of flour, butter, and the last teaspoon of cinnamon. The mixture will be moist and clumpy, exactly how you want it. Add the old-fashioned oats and work them in gently with your hands or a wooden spoon. You’re aiming for a rough, crumbly texture rather than a smooth dough.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Scatter the oat topping evenly over the peaches, letting some small clusters remain for delightful texture. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes—you’re looking for the topping to turn a light golden brown around the edges, while bubbling peach juices peek through.

Step 5: Rest, Serve & Enjoy

Let your Peach Crisp rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This allows the syrup to thicken and the topping to firm up just enough. Spoon out big servings while still warm; the scent of cinnamon and bubbling peaches is utterly irresistible.

How to Serve Peach Crisp

Garnishes

A scoop of vanilla ice cream is practically required when serving warm Peach Crisp. You can also sprinkle a pinch of ground nutmeg or cinnamon on top for extra fragrance. Fresh mint leaves add a pop of color and a touch of freshness if you want to get fancy for guests.

Side Dishes

Pair your Peach Crisp with a bowl of fresh berries, or serve alongside lightly sweetened whipped cream. For a brunch twist, try it with vanilla Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey. Even a few toasted pecans scattered on top are wonderful if you’re after crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

You can bake individual portions in ramekins for a dinner party twist, or layer leftovers into parfait glasses with yogurt and oats for a spectacular breakfast treat. For picnics, pack Peach Crisp into small mason jars for portable, adorable single-servings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store Peach Crisp in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep beautifully for up to four days, though it rarely lasts that long in most households.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked Peach Crisp: assemble, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. Baked crisp can also be frozen in portions—just reheat as desired.

Reheating

To revisit that just-baked magic, warm Peach Crisp in a 400°F oven until heated through and the top gets crispy again. For quick fixes, individual servings reheat beautifully in the microwave in 30-second bursts.

FAQs

Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Thaw the frozen peaches completely and drain off any excess liquid. While the texture will be a little softer than fresh, the final Peach Crisp will still be deliciously satisfying.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply use a trusted gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for the topping. For the peach filling, skip the flour and add an extra couple of teaspoons of cornstarch to give you that luscious, thickened filling.

How do I double this recipe for a crowd?

Double all the ingredients and bake the Peach Crisp in a 9×13-inch dish. You’ll likely need to add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time, so keep an eye on the topping for that perfect golden hue.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the entire crisp and refrigerate (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Let it sit on the counter while you preheat the oven, then bake as directed for fresh-from-the-oven results when you need them.

What type of oats work best?

Old-fashioned rolled oats are perfect for Peach Crisp. Quick oats will make the topping a little mushier, while steel-cut oats don’t soften enough—stick to old-fashioned for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

No matter the season, there’s just something magical about scooping into a warm, bubbly Peach Crisp. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned dessert enthusiast, I hope you’ll give this recipe a try—it never fails to bring smiles around the table and has become a fast favorite in my own home. Happy baking!

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