This Easy Homemade Peach Crisp is a warm, fruity dessert that’s perfect for summer! Fresh peaches are topped with a crunchy oat mixture that gives it that crispy goodness we all love.
Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing when this bakes! I usually serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, because who can resist that combo? 🍑🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches are a must for the best flavor, but if they’re out of season, you can use canned peaches (drained) or frozen peaches (thawed) as alternatives. Just be sure to adjust the sugar, as canned fruits can be sweeter.
Sugars: I like using a mix of granulated and brown sugar for depth of flavor. If you’re avoiding refined sugars, try coconut sugar or maple sugar instead—they work well too!
Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats provide great texture. If you need a gluten-free option, be sure to use certified gluten-free oats. You could use quick oats in a pinch, but the texture will be slightly different.
Butter: Unsalted butter is usually what I go for, but if you’re dairy-free, try coconut oil or a plant-based butter. Just make sure it’s melted before mixing!
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Peaches for Baking?
Preparing peaches is simple but can be a bit tricky if you’re not used to it. Here’s how to get juicy slices ready for your crisp:
- Start by washing the peaches thoroughly. To peel them easily, score the bottom with an “X” and blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds, then plunge them into ice water.
- Once cooled, the skin should peel off easily. Slice the peaches into even pieces for consistent baking.
- The lemon juice not only adds flavor but prevents browning, so don’t skip that step!
Easy Homemade Peach Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peach Filling:
- 6 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (about 6 medium peaches)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful peach crisp takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 35 to 40 minutes to bake. You’ll have a delicious dessert ready in under an hour, plus a little time to let it cool before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the crisp bakes evenly and gets nice and golden. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Peach Filling:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced peaches with granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Mix until the peaches are evenly coated. Pour the peach mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Make the Oat Topping:
In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then, stir in the melted butter until the mixture looks crumbly and well mixed. This topping is what makes your peach crisp extra special!
4. Assemble the Crisp:
Now sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the peaches in the baking dish. This delicious layer is going to bake to a perfect crunch!
5. Bake It Up:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll want to see a golden-brown topping and bubbly peach filling—this is when the magic happens!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take your peach crisp out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Serve it warm, and if you really want to treat yourself, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. Enjoy your homemade peach crisp!
FAQs for Easy Homemade Peach Crisp
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using. You may want to adjust the sugar slightly, as frozen peaches can sometimes be sweeter.
Can I Make This Peach Crisp Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peach filling and topping separately in advance. Keep them in the refrigerator and bake just before serving for the best texture. Alternatively, you can bake it ahead of time and reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover peach crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Sugar for a Healthier Option?
Yes! You can experiment with less refined sugars like coconut sugar or honey. If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, consider using a sugar substitute that measures like sugar, but keep in mind it may change the final taste and texture slightly.