Old-Fashioned Peach Crisp

Name: Old-Fashioned Peach Crisp
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Fresh Peaches: Peel, pit, and slice ripe peaches.; Granulated Sugar: Sweeten the peach filling.; All-Purpose Flour: Helps to thicken the filling.; Cornstarch: Thickens the peach juices.; Ground Cinnamon: Complements the flavor of the peaches.; Salt: Balances the sweetness.; All-Purpose Flour (Topping): The base for the crumble topping.; Light Brown Sugar: Adds a rich, molasses-like flavor.; Salted Butter (Room Temperature): Creates a crumbly topping.; Ground Cinnamon (Topping): Enhances the sweetness of the peaches.; Old-Fashioned Oats: Adds texture and crunch to the topping.

Jump to Recipe

Old-Fashioned Peach Crisp is a classic dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe peaches with a perfectly crisp topping. This timeless treat is simple to prepare and offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures—soft, juicy peaches paired with a warm, crunchy oat topping. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dessert or a special gathering, this dessert is sure to impress. If you’re looking for a breakfast option that pairs well with a dessert like peach crisp, check out our Crescent Roll Breakfast Recipes for some ideas that are easy and delicious.

The key to making an unforgettable Old-Fashioned Peach Crisp is using fresh, ripe peaches. These provide the best flavor, ensuring that each bite is juicy and sweet. The crisp topping, made from a blend of oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon, adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender peach filling. Best served warm, this dessert is often paired with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, which melts into the crisp for a deliciously indulgent experience. If you’re planning a hearty brunch, try pairing it with our Breakfast Potatoes Recipe – Easy & Crispy for a well-rounded meal.

Ingredients

Filling:

Fresh Peaches: The star of the dessert! Choose ripe peaches for the best flavor. You’ll need to peel, pit, and slice them.
Granulated Sugar: Used to sweeten the peach filling.
All-Purpose Flour: Helps to thicken the filling and create a nice texture.
Cornstarch: A key ingredient for thickening the peach juices.
Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth and complements the flavor of the peaches.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

Topping:

All-Purpose Flour: The base for the crumble topping.
Light Brown Sugar: Gives the topping a rich, molasses-like flavor.
Salted Butter (Room Temperature): Essential for creating a crumbly topping that is both rich and satisfying.
Ground Cinnamon: Adds a lovely spice that enhances the sweetness of the peaches.
Old-Fashioned Oats: These oats are a key component of the crisp topping, adding texture and crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly butter a 9×9-inch baking dish to ensure the crisp doesn’t stick while baking.

Make the Peach Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced peaches with granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, and salt. Toss gently to coat the peaches evenly. This mixture will create a thick and flavorful peach filling.

Create the Oat Topping:
In another bowl, mix together the light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, and room-temperature salted butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to incorporate the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Once you have the desired consistency, stir in the old-fashioned oats, ensuring they are well distributed.

Assemble the Crisp:
Transfer the peach mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Then, evenly distribute the oat topping over the peaches, covering the entire surface.

Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbling around the edges.

Cool Before Serving:
Once the peach crisp is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This allows the filling to set, making it easier to serve.

Additional Notes

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:
Old-Fashioned Peach Crisp is easy to store for later enjoyment. Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it in the oven for the best results, ensuring the topping stays crispy.

For those looking to make the dessert ahead of time, you can prepare the peach filling and oat topping separately. Assemble the crisp just before baking. Alternatively, you can refrigerate the assembled crisp for up to 24 hours and bake it when ready.

Choosing Ripe Peaches:
The key to a great peach crisp is using ripe peaches. Look for peaches that are firm but yield slightly to pressure. They should smell sweet and fragrant. Overripe peaches can be mushy, while under-ripe peaches may lack the sweetness you need for this dessert.

Using Frozen Peaches:
If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can use frozen peaches in place of fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess liquid in the filling. This will prevent the crisp from becoming too watery.

Gluten-Free Substitutions:
For a gluten-free version of Old-Fashioned Peach Crisp, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. You may also need to increase the cornstarch slightly to achieve the right consistency in the filling.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream:
A warm serving of Old-Fashioned Peach Crisp is best enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, spiced peach filling and crisp topping, making it an indulgent treat. For more delicious breakfast options, check out our Breakfast Pizza Recipe – Easy & Cheesy for ideas on how to bring versatility into your meal planning.

Greek Yogurt or Whipped Cream:
For a lighter option, you can serve the peach crisp with a dollop of Greek yogurt or freshly whipped cream. The tartness of Greek yogurt offers a nice balance to the sweetness of the peach filling. If you’re looking for more healthy breakfast options, check out our Crescent Roll Breakfast Recipes for some fresh and fun ideas to complement your peach crisp.

Mascarpone and Caramel Drizzle:
For a more decadent dessert, try serving the crisp with a dollop of mascarpone cheese or a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce. This adds a rich, creamy element that elevates the dish for special occasions. You can also add a drizzle of caramel to some of our Breakfast Potatoes Recipe – Easy & Crispy for a sweet-savory twist.

Serving for Special Occasions:
For holidays or dinner parties, you can garnish the Old-Fashioned Peach Crisp with a dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh mint leaves for a more festive presentation.

FAQs

Can Frozen Peaches Be Used?

Yes, frozen peaches can be used in place of fresh ones. Simply thaw and drain them before using in the recipe to prevent excess liquid from affecting the texture of the crisp.

How Do I Know When the Crisp is Done?

The peach crisp is done when the topping has turned golden brown and the peach filling is bubbling around the edges of the dish. You can also insert a toothpick into the filling to check if it has thickened.

Can This Be Made Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the peach filling and oat topping ahead of time. Assemble the crisp and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, bake the crisp, allow it to cool, and then store it in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven when ready to serve.

Can I Make the Topping Healthier?

If you’re looking to make a healthier version of the topping, you can reduce the sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Additionally, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?

To make a gluten-free peach crisp, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You may also need to adjust the cornstarch amount slightly to maintain the proper consistency.

Old-fashioned peach crisp with vanilla ice cream and juicy peach slices, served in a skillet with a Halloween-themed text overlay.

Old-fashioned peach crisp with vanilla ice cream, featuring a golden oat topping, juicy peach slices, and a Halloween-themed text overlay.

Final thoughts

Old-Fashioned Peach Crisp is a classic dessert that’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet, juicy peaches with a crunchy, spiced oat topping is irresistible. Whether you’re serving it to your family or guests, this dessert is guaranteed to be a hit. Don’t forget to pair it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a truly indulgent treat. Whether you’re using fresh peaches in season or frozen peaches when fresh ones aren’t available, this dessert is sure to satisfy your cravings for something sweet and comforting.