There’s nothing quite like the first bite of a warm dessert that captures the essence of summer. As the sweet, juicy peaches meld with a sprinkle of cinnamon and brown sugar, each mouthful evokes the sun-kissed days of lazy afternoons. I discovered this gem of a recipe while seeking a quick and satisfying treat that wouldn’t leave me in the kitchen for hours. In just 15 minutes, you can transform ripe peaches into a delightful indulgence that’s perfect for any gathering, from casual family dinners to festive summer barbecues.
Topped with a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream, these Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches balance warmth and creaminess, offering a taste experience that’s both comforting and incredibly refreshing. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that not only dazzles the taste buds but also allows for personal twists—because who doesn’t love a recipe that can adapt to your whims? Let’s dive into this vibrant summer dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet cravings!
Why will you adore Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches?
Quick and Easy: This warm dessert can be ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.
Delightfully Flavorful: The combination of sweet, juicy peaches with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg creates a taste explosion that feels like an embrace in dessert form.
Versatile: Feel free to switch the peaches with nectarines or pears for a unique twist every time.
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve topped with ice cream or whipped cream, and watch your guests light up with joy—this dessert is a surefire hit!
Seasonally Inspired: Capture the essence of summer with fresh, ripe fruit that shines as the star ingredient.
Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches Ingredients
For the Peaches
• Peaches – Use ripe peaches for the best flavor; nectarines or pears could be excellent substitutes.
• Butter – Adds richness and aids in browning; can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
For the Topping
• Brown Sugar – Sweetens the dish and adds a caramel-like flavor; white sugar or maple syrup can be used but will alter the taste slightly.
• Cinnamon – Brings warmth and spice to the dessert; nutmeg can be added for a deeper flavor profile.
• Nutmeg – Enhances the overall spice blend; omit if unavailable and just use more cinnamon.
• Cloves – Contributes a warm aroma; allspice is a good substitute or skip for a simpler taste.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness, making the peaches shine; it’s essential for enhancing the fruit’s natural flavor.
For Serving
• Vanilla Ice Cream – A creamy complement to the warm peaches; sweetened mascarpone cheese can also be delicious as an alternative.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfectly baked dessert that caramelizes the peaches just right.
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Prepare the peaches by halving 4 ripe peaches and removing the pits. Arrange them cut-side up on a baking pan, ready to soak up all that delicious goodness.
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Add a small pat of butter in the center of each peach half. This will melt during baking, infusing richness and helping to brown the peaches.
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Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt in a bowl until combined. Sprinkle this fragrant mixture evenly over the peaches, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
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Bake for 8-12 minutes until the peaches are tender and the edges are golden brown. You want them soft, bubbling, and full of warmth!
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Serve the peaches warm, finished with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Enjoy the delightful contrast of the warm fruit and cold creaminess!
Optional: Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can slice and prepare the peaches, along with the topping mixture of brown sugar and spices, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the halved peaches in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh (a sprinkle of lemon juice helps prevent browning). When you’re ready to serve, arrange the peaches in a baking pan, add the butter and topping mixture, then bake them for 8-12 minutes until tender and golden. You’ll savor the delightful flavors with less hassle—what a sweet treat!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches?
Elevate your dessert experience by discovering perfect pairings that complement the warm, sweet flavors of baked peaches.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice, it melts beautifully over warm peaches, enhancing their sweetness with its rich texture.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a fluffy contrast, making each bite feel indulgent yet refreshing.
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Toasted Almonds: These add a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft peaches, introducing a nutty flavor that complements the spices.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel brings a luscious sweetness that elevates every element, adding an extra layer of decadence to the dish.
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Fresh Mint: A sprig of mint not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a refreshing herbal note that brightens up the dessert.
Pairing these delightful options with your Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches can transform a simple dessert into a multi-sensory experience!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches
- Choose Ripe Peaches: Select peaches that yield slightly when pressed; under-ripe fruit won’t soften properly during baking.
- Butter Alternatives: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substitute butter with coconut oil; it adds a lovely flavor too!
- Mind the Sugar: Be cautious with the sugar; too much can overpower the natural peach flavor. Start with less, then adjust according to your taste.
- Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your peaches in the oven; baking too long can cause them to become mushy rather than tender.
- Experiment with Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix it up! Swap peaches for nectarines or pears, and try different toppings like toasted almonds for a satisfying crunch.
Storage Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches
- Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, consume within 1 hour to maintain optimal taste and texture.
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a preheated oven for a few minutes before serving.
- Freezer: While fresh baked peaches are delightful, you can freeze unbaked filled peach halves for up to 3 months. Just thaw before baking.
- Reheating: To enjoy the warm flavors again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches Variations
Customize your dish and let your imagination soar as you explore the delightful possibilities with these baked peaches!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil for a rich, creamy texture minus the dairy.
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Nut-Free: Omit any nuts if allergies are a concern, or use sunflower seed butter in place of butter for a twist.
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Sweetener Swap: Try honey or agave syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness level, maintaining the same satisfying flavor.
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in slices of fresh strawberries or blueberries alongside the peaches for a vibrant summer berry flavor boost.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger for a surprising kick that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Extra Crunch: Top with crumbled graham crackers or granola for a delightful crunch against the tender, warm peaches.
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Flavor Infusion: Infuse the butter with a hint of vanilla extract before baking to deepen the aromatic experience.
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Ice Cream Alternatives: Swap vanilla ice cream for peach sorbet or coconut cream for a refreshing, fruity alternative!
Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches Recipe FAQs
What kind of peaches should I use for baking?
Absolutely! For the best results, always opt for ripe peaches that yield slightly when gently pressed. Under-ripe peaches won’t soften properly during baking, leading to a more challenging texture. If peaches aren’t in season, both nectarines and pears work beautifully as substitutes while still delivering fabulous flavor.
How should I store leftovers after making baked peaches?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, quickly reheat in the microwave for 30 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This way, you’ll restore some of that warm, inviting goodness!
Can I freeze baked peaches, and how?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked filled peach halves for up to 3 months! Here’s how:
- Prepare the peaches as per the recipe, but don’t bake them.
- Arrange the filled peach halves on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid, about 1-2 hours.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
- When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight before placing them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) as directed.
What can I do if my peaches are too firm?
If your peaches are too firm to bake, don’t worry! You can try this method: slice them and sauté in a bit of butter over medium heat for about 5-8 minutes until they start to soften. Then follow the recipe as instructed. This way, you’ll still enjoy that warm, spiced flavor!
Are there any allergies I should consider with this dessert?
If you or your guests have allergies, it’s crucial to check. The primary potential allergens in this dessert are butter and the choice of ice cream. For a dairy-free option, simply substitute butter with coconut oil and serve with a dairy-free ice cream or sweetened mascarpone instead. Always confirm that the ingredients used are safe for those with specific allergies.
What’s the best way to bring out the flavors in my baked peaches?
To elevate the flavor of your Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches, consider adding a pinch of vanilla extract to the sugar mixture or drizzling some honey over the peaches before baking. These additions will enhance the overall sweetness and flavor complexity, making your dessert even more delightful!
Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches: A Sweet Twist on Summer Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure perfectly baked peaches.
- Prepare the peaches by halving them and removing the pits. Arrange cut-side up on a baking pan.
- Add a small pat of butter in the center of each peach half.
- Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt in a bowl until combined. Sprinkle over peaches.
- Bake for 8-12 minutes until peaches are tender and edges are golden brown.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.