Brandy Baked Peaches: A Decadent Dessert Recipe
Peaches, with their velvety skin and sweet, slightly tangy flesh, are a quintessential summer fruit. But even as the summer days fade, the memory of their sunny flavor lingers. What better way to extend the peach season and elevate its inherent deliciousness than by baking them with brandy? This Brandy Baked Peaches recipe transforms a simple fruit into a sophisticated and comforting dessert, perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a cozy evening at home. The warmth of the brandy complements the sweetness of the peaches, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that is both elegant and satisfying. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum reward. Prepare to be captivated by the aroma that fills your kitchen as the peaches bake, a tantalizing preview of the delectable treat to come.
Why Brandy and Peaches are a Perfect Match
The marriage of brandy and peaches is a classic pairing for a reason. Brandy, a spirit distilled from wine or fermented fruit juice, boasts complex flavors ranging from fruity and floral to spicy and oaky. These nuances enhance the natural sweetness of peaches, adding depth and sophistication to the dessert. The alcohol in the brandy also helps to break down the peach fibers during baking, resulting in a tender and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Furthermore, the subtle warmth of the brandy creates a comforting sensation, making this dessert ideal for cooler evenings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you embark on this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:
* **Ripe Peaches:** 6 medium-sized, preferably freestone peaches. Freestone peaches are easier to pit, but clingstone peaches can also be used if that’s what you have available. Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch and have a fragrant aroma. Avoid peaches that are bruised or overly firm.
* **Brandy:** 1/4 cup. Choose a good quality brandy, such as Cognac or Armagnac, for the best flavor. However, a more affordable VS (Very Special) brandy will also work well. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute with peach schnapps or a similar fruit liqueur.
* **Butter:** 4 tablespoons, unsalted. Butter adds richness and helps to create a golden-brown crust on the peaches. Use unsalted butter to control the overall sweetness of the dessert.
* **Brown Sugar:** 1/4 cup, packed. Brown sugar adds a caramel-like sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor that complements the brandy and peaches perfectly. You can use light or dark brown sugar, depending on your preference. Dark brown sugar will result in a richer, more intense flavor.
* **Cinnamon:** 1/2 teaspoon, ground. Cinnamon adds warmth and spice to the dessert. You can adjust the amount to your liking. A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom would also be delicious additions.
* **Vanilla Extract:** 1 teaspoon. Vanilla extract enhances the other flavors and adds a touch of sweetness. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
* **Lemon Juice:** 1 tablespoon. Lemon juice helps to balance the sweetness and prevents the peaches from browning. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor.
* **Optional Toppings:** Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds), a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Equipment Required
* **Baking Dish:** An 8×8 inch or 9-inch square baking dish or a similar-sized oval dish.
* **Knife:** A sharp knife for slicing the peaches.
* **Mixing Bowl:** For combining the butter, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurement.
* **Spoon or Spatula:** For spreading the butter mixture over the peaches.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get baking!
**Step 1: Prepare the Peaches**
* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Adjust the rack to the middle position.
* Wash the peaches thoroughly under cold running water.
* Cut each peach in half along the natural seam. Gently twist the halves to separate them.
* Remove the pits. If using clingstone peaches, you may need to use a paring knife to carefully cut around the pit and remove it in pieces.
* Slice each peach half into wedges, about 1/2 inch thick.
**Step 2: Make the Butter Mixture**
* In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
* Use a spoon or spatula to cream the ingredients together until they are well combined and form a smooth paste. If the butter is not soft enough, you can microwave it for a few seconds, but be careful not to melt it completely.
**Step 3: Assemble the Dish**
* Arrange the peach slices in the baking dish in a single layer. You can overlap them slightly.
* Drizzle the lemon juice evenly over the peach slices.
* Spoon the butter mixture over the peaches, distributing it evenly. You can use your fingers to gently rub the mixture into the peaches, ensuring that each slice is coated.
* Pour the brandy over the peaches. Be careful not to pour it all in one spot, but rather distribute it evenly over the dish.
**Step 4: Bake the Peaches**
* Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peaches are tender and the topping is bubbly and golden brown. The baking time may vary depending on the ripeness of the peaches and your oven.
* To check for doneness, insert a fork into a peach slice. It should be easily pierced and feel soft.
**Step 5: Let Cool Slightly and Serve**
* Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the peaches cool slightly for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
* Serve the Brandy Baked Peaches warm, either on their own or with your favorite toppings. Vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing, but whipped cream, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon would also be delicious additions.
Tips and Variations
* **Use different fruits:** While this recipe is specifically for peaches, you can easily adapt it to use other fruits, such as nectarines, plums, apricots, or even pears. Adjust the baking time as needed depending on the fruit you choose.
* **Add spices:** Experiment with different spices to create your own unique flavor profile. Nutmeg, cardamom, ginger, or allspice would all be delicious additions.
* **Incorporate nuts:** Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the butter mixture for added texture and flavor. You can also sprinkle them on top of the peaches before baking.
* **Use a different liqueur:** If you don’t have brandy on hand, you can substitute with another liqueur, such as rum, bourbon, or amaretto. Peach schnapps or another fruit liqueur would also work well.
* **Make it vegan:** Substitute the butter with vegan butter and ensure your brown sugar is vegan-friendly (some brands use bone char in the refining process). The recipe will still be delicious!
* **Individual servings:** Bake the peaches in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
* **Add a crumble topping:** For an extra layer of texture, add a crumble topping made from flour, butter, sugar, and oats. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the peaches before baking.
* **Enhance the caramelization:** For a deeper caramel flavor, try broiling the peaches for the last few minutes of baking. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
Brandy Baked Peaches are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
* **As a dessert:** Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
* **As a breakfast or brunch treat:** Top with Greek yogurt and granola for a healthier option.
* **As a topping for pancakes or waffles:** Drizzle the warm peach sauce over pancakes or waffles for a decadent breakfast.
* **As a side dish:** Serve alongside grilled pork or chicken for a sweet and savory meal.
* **As an ingredient in other desserts:** Use the baked peaches in pies, tarts, or crumbles.
Storage Instructions
* **Refrigerate:** Leftover Brandy Baked Peaches can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheat:** Reheat the peaches in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or juice to prevent them from drying out.
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)
* Calories: 250-300
* Fat: 10-15g
* Saturated Fat: 6-8g
* Cholesterol: 30-40mg
* Sodium: 50-70mg
* Carbohydrates: 30-40g
* Sugar: 25-35g
* Protein: 2-3g
*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*
Conclusion
Brandy Baked Peaches are a simple yet elegant dessert that is sure to impress. The combination of sweet peaches, warm brandy, and spices creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dessert or a show-stopping treat for a special occasion, this recipe is a winner. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the deliciousness of Brandy Baked Peaches. Enjoy!