Easy Peach Crisp II: A Simple and Delicious Dessert Recipe

Peach crisp is a classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and always satisfies. This recipe, dubbed “Easy Peach Crisp II,” is a slightly modified and, in my opinion, improved version of the traditional crisp, offering a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and crunchy textures. We’ve tweaked the original to enhance the peach flavor and create an even more irresistible topping. This recipe is specifically designed for busy individuals or those who prefer simplicity without sacrificing taste. Get ready to enjoy a warm, comforting dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!

## Why This Peach Crisp Recipe Works

There are countless peach crisp recipes out there, but this one stands out for a few key reasons:

* **Simplicity:** It uses common pantry ingredients and requires minimal steps.
* **Flavor:** The combination of fresh peaches, lemon juice, and warm spices creates a harmonious and irresistible flavor profile.
* **Texture:** The crisp topping provides a delightful contrast to the soft, juicy peaches.
* **Customizable:** You can easily adapt this recipe to your preferences by adding nuts, using different spices, or swapping out some of the peaches for other fruits.
* **Quick to Prepare:** From start to finish, you can have this peach crisp ready in about an hour.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these ingredients:

**For the Peach Filling:**

* 6-8 medium ripe peaches, peeled and sliced (about 6 cups)
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but highly recommended)
* 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, enhances peach flavor)
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

**For the Crisp Topping:**

* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking)
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
* 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for added crunch and flavor)

## Equipment You’ll Need

* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Large bowl
* Medium bowl
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Pastry blender or fork
* Peeler (optional, for peeling peaches)
* Knife

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect peach crisp:

**1. Prepare the Peaches:**

* **Peel the Peaches (Optional):** While you can leave the skins on, peeling the peaches will result in a smoother filling. To easily peel peaches, score an ‘X’ on the bottom of each peach with a knife. Then, place them in a pot of boiling water for 30-60 seconds. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath. The skins should easily slip off.
* **Slice the Peaches:** Cut the peeled peaches into approximately ½-inch thick slices. Aim for uniform slices to ensure even cooking.
* **Combine in a Bowl:** Place the sliced peaches in a large bowl.

**2. Make the Peach Filling:**

* **Add Dry Ingredients:** In the bowl with the peaches, add the granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and almond extract (if using). Gently toss everything together until the peaches are evenly coated.
* **Add Lemon Juice:** Drizzle the lemon juice over the peaches. This brightens the flavor and helps prevent the peaches from browning.
* **Dot with Butter:** Distribute the small pieces of butter evenly over the peach mixture. This will add richness and flavor to the filling.

**3. Prepare the Crisp Topping:**

* **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
* **Cut in the Butter:** Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should be in small pieces throughout the mixture; this is what creates the crispy texture.
* **Add Nuts (Optional):** If using nuts, stir them into the topping mixture.

**4. Assemble and Bake:**

* **Pour in Filling:** Pour the peach filling into the 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
* **Sprinkle Topping:** Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the peach filling, covering as much of the surface as possible. You can gently press the topping down to help it adhere to the peaches.
* **Bake:** Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbly. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the dish with foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

**5. Cool and Serve:**

* **Cool Slightly:** Let the peach crisp cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to thicken slightly and prevents burning your mouth.
* **Serve:** Serve warm, either plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Enjoy!

## Tips for the Best Peach Crisp

* **Use Ripe Peaches:** Ripe peaches are key to a flavorful and juicy filling. They should be slightly soft to the touch and have a fragrant aroma.
* **Don’t Overmix the Filling:** Gently toss the peach filling ingredients together to avoid bruising the peaches.
* **Keep the Butter Cold:** Using cold butter in the crisp topping is essential for creating a crumbly and crispy texture. If the butter is too soft, the topping will be dense and greasy.
* **Adjust Sweetness to Taste:** Depending on the sweetness of your peaches, you may need to adjust the amount of sugar in the filling. Taste the peaches before adding sugar and adjust accordingly.
* **Add a Pinch of Salt to the Filling:** A small amount of salt in the peach filling can enhance the sweetness and balance the flavors.
* **Use a Pastry Blender:** A pastry blender is the easiest way to cut the butter into the dry ingredients for the topping. If you don’t have one, you can use two knives or your fingers.
* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaking can dry out the peaches and make the topping too hard. Bake until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
* **Let it Cool Slightly:** Allowing the crisp to cool slightly before serving allows the filling to thicken and prevents burning.
* **Reheat Properly:** To reheat peach crisp, cover it with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions.

## Variations and Substitutions

This peach crisp recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas for variations and substitutions:

* **Other Fruits:** Replace some of the peaches with other fruits like nectarines, plums, berries, or apples. A combination of peaches and blueberries is particularly delicious.
* **Different Nuts:** Use different types of nuts in the topping, such as almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, or macadamia nuts. You can also use a combination of nuts.
* **Spice Variations:** Experiment with different spices in the filling, such as ginger, cardamom, or allspice. A pinch of ground cloves can also add a warm, festive flavor.
* **Gluten-Free Option:** Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and gluten-free rolled oats in the topping to make this recipe gluten-free.
* **Vegan Option:** Use vegan butter substitute and ensure that the brown sugar is vegan (some brands use bone char in the refining process).
* **Add a Streusel Topping:** For a richer topping, add a streusel made with flour, butter, sugar, and spices.
* **Use a Different Sweetener:** Replace the granulated sugar in the filling with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar. Adjust the amount to taste.
* **Add a Liqueur:** A tablespoon or two of amaretto, peach schnapps, or bourbon can add a sophisticated touch to the peach filling.

## Serving Suggestions

Peach crisp is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with a few accompaniments:

* **Vanilla Ice Cream:** A classic pairing that never fails to please.
* **Whipped Cream:** Light and fluffy whipped cream complements the warm crisp perfectly.
* **Caramel Sauce:** A drizzle of caramel sauce adds a touch of sweetness and richness.
* **Cinnamon Sugar:** Sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top for extra flavor and sweetness.
* **Greek Yogurt:** For a healthier option, serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt.
* **Crème Fraîche:** Adds a tangy and creamy element.

## Make-Ahead Tips

* **Prepare the Filling:** You can prepare the peach filling up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
* **Make the Topping:** The crisp topping can also be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Assemble Ahead:** You can assemble the entire crisp (filling and topping) up to 8 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

## Storage Instructions

* **Store Leftovers:** Store leftover peach crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
* **Freeze:** You can freeze peach crisp for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

*Calories: 350-450
*Fat: 15-25g
*Saturated Fat: 8-15g
*Cholesterol: 45-60mg
*Sodium: 150-250mg
*Carbohydrates: 50-65g
*Fiber: 3-5g
*Sugar: 30-40g
*Protein: 3-5g

*Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**Q: Can I use canned peaches?**
A: While fresh peaches are ideal, you can use canned peaches in a pinch. Be sure to drain them well and reduce the amount of sugar in the filling.

**Q: Do I need to peel the peaches?**
A: Peeling the peaches is optional. If you prefer a smoother filling, peel them. If you don’t mind the skins, you can leave them on.

**Q: Can I use frozen peaches?**
A: Yes, you can use frozen peaches. Thaw them slightly before using and drain off any excess liquid.

**Q: Can I make this recipe in a smaller dish?**
A: Yes, you can halve the recipe and bake it in an 8×8 inch baking dish. Reduce the baking time accordingly.

**Q: My topping isn’t crispy enough. What can I do?**
A: Make sure your butter is cold and that you don’t overmix the topping. You can also try baking the crisp for a few minutes longer, or broiling it briefly at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.

**Q: Can I add oats to the topping if I don’t have rolled oats?**
A: Yes, you can add oats. However, the texture will be slightly different.

**Q: Can I add spices to the topping?**
A: Absolutely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger are all delicious additions to the topping.

## Easy Peach Crisp II Recipe Card

Easy Peach Crisp II: A Simple and Delicious Dessert Recipe

Peach crisp is a classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and always satisfies.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 12

Ingredients:

For the Peach Filling:

* 6-8 medium ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
* 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

For the Crisp Topping:

* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 cup rolled oats
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
* 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Peach Filling: In a large bowl, combine sliced peaches, granulated sugar, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and almond extract (if using). Toss gently to coat. Dot with butter pieces.
3. Prepare the Crisp Topping: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter with a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in nuts (if using).
4. Assemble and Bake: Pour the peach filling into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the peach filling.
5. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbly. If topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
6. Cool and Serve: Let the peach crisp cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. Serve warm, plain or with ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes:

* Use ripe peaches for the best flavor.
* Keep butter cold for a crispy topping.
* Adjust sweetness to taste.
* Variations: Add other fruits, use different nuts, or experiment with spices.

Enjoy!

## Conclusion

Easy Peach Crisp II is a fantastic dessert to whip up on a busy weeknight or bring to a potluck. The combination of sweet, juicy peaches and a crunchy, buttery topping is simply irresistible. With its easy preparation and customizable nature, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a slice of warm, comforting peach crisp! Don’t forget to share your creations and variations in the comments below! We love hearing from you.