This Easy Homemade Peach Crisp is a warm, fruity dessert topped with a crunchy mixture that makes every bite delightful. Juicy peaches and a sweet, crumbly topping come together perfectly!
I love how this crisp fills my kitchen with a sweet peachy smell as it bakes. Plus, a scoop of ice cream on top? Yes, please! It’s the ultimate summer treat that’s super simple to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches are the star of the show! You can also use frozen peaches, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in your crisp.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens your peaches. If you’re watching your sugar intake, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or coconut sugar instead.
Lemon Juice: Lemon adds brightness and balances sweetness. If you’re out, a splash of vinegar or lime juice can work too, but use less since they have a stronger flavor.
For the Topping: Old-fashioned oats give crunch. If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free oats and all-purpose flour. Almond flour or coconut flour are great substitutes, just note the texture will change slightly.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Peaches?
Preparing the peaches properly is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by peeling the peaches easily if they’re ripe. If they’re not, blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to cold water – the skins should slip right off.
- Next, slice them evenly to ensure they cook through at the same rate. Aim for about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Mix the sliced peaches with sugar and lemon juice earlier so they can start releasing their juices. This makes the filling juicy and sweet.
By taking your time with the peaches, you’ll achieve a delicious, juicy filling that pairs perfectly with the crunchy topping!
Easy Homemade Peach Crisp Recipe with Crunchy Topping
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peach Filling:
- 6 cups fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced (about 6 medium peaches)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
For the Crunchy Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This peach crisp takes about 15-20 minutes to prep, plus about 40-45 minutes to bake in the oven. After baking, it’s best to let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a 9-inch round or square baking dish to get it ready for the peach filling.
2. Prepare the Peach Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches, granulated sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and cornstarch. Toss gently to coat all the peach slices evenly. This will help the flavors blend together nicely. Once mixed, transfer this peach mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
3. Make the Crunchy Topping:
In a separate medium bowl, mix together the old-fashioned rolled oats, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well combined. Next, pour the melted butter over this oat mixture. Use a fork or your fingers to combine it until the mixture is crumbly and all the ingredients are moistened.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Sprinkle the crunchy topping evenly over the peaches in the baking dish. This topping is what gives the crisp its delightful texture! Now, place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and you see the peach filling bubbling around the edges.
5. Cool & Serve:
Once baked, remove the peach crisp from the oven and let it cool slightly for about 10 minutes. This will help it set a bit more. Serve this warm, and if you’re feeling extra indulgent, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top!
Enjoy this comforting peach crisp that beautifully balances soft, sweet peaches with a buttery, crunchy oat topping!
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Homemade Peach Crisp
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! If using canned peaches, drain them well to avoid excess liquid. For frozen peaches, thaw them and drain any excess moisture before using them in the recipe.
What if I Don’t Have Cornstarch on Hand?
No problem! You can substitute cornstarch with an equal amount of all-purpose flour. It may not be as effective in thickening, but it will still work to help the peach filling hold together.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven for a few minutes until warmed through, and it’s delicious warmed up!
Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peach filling and topping separately, then assemble and bake just before serving. This is a great option for gatherings or preparing for busy days!
