There’s something magical about the smell of baked peaches, cinnamon, and oats wafting through your kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a summer barbecue, a cozy autumn dinner, or just to use up some ripe fruit, peach crisp is one of those classic desserts that never goes out of style.
Unlike cobblers or crumbles, a crisp includes a topping made with oats that bakes up golden and crunchy. It’s a simple, crowd-pleasing recipe that anyone can master.
Before you preheat your oven, let’s explore what makes the perfect peach crisp, and why you’ll want to make this recipe all year round.
Choosing the Right Peaches: Fresh, Frozen, or Canned?
Using fresh peaches when they’re in season delivers the best flavor. Not sure when peaches are at their peak? Check out this seasonal peach guide from the USDA.
If it’s off-season:
- Frozen peaches: Great texture if thawed properly
- Canned peaches: Convenient, but opt for those in juice rather than syrup
You can learn how to maximize flavor with this guide on what enhances the flavor of peaches.
Essential Ingredients for Peach Crisp
For the Filling:
- 6–8 fresh peaches, sliced (or use frozen/canned)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For the Topping:
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- ½ cup old-fashioned oats
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 6 tbsp cold unsalted butter
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Substitution Options
Want to switch it up? Here are some ideas:
- Use almond flour for a nutty, gluten-free version
- Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter
- Swap brown sugar with maple syrup for a healthy twist
- Add blueberries or raspberries for variety
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9 baking dish or cast iron skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Peeler (optional)
Tip: Baking in a cast iron skillet adds beautiful caramelization.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Peaches
- Wash and slice peaches into ½-inch wedges
- Optional: Peel them for a smoother filling
2. Mix the Filling
- Combine peaches with sugar, lemon juice, vanilla, cornstarch, cinnamon, and salt
- Spread into baking dish or skillet
3. Make the Crisp Topping
- Mix flour, oats, sugars, cinnamon, and salt
- Cut in cold butter until mixture forms coarse crumbs
- Stir in vanilla
4. Assemble & Bake
- Sprinkle topping evenly over peaches
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes
- Let cool 10–15 minutes before serving
Pro Tips for Perfect Peach Crisp
- Cold butter = extra crispy topping
- Don’t overmix filling — preserve peach slices
- Taste your peaches first — adjust sugar accordingly
- Add chopped pecans or almonds for crunch
- For air fryer version: bake at 350°F for 15–20 min
Want to make it a complete meal? Try it alongside this healthiest breakfast pastry guide for an indulgent brunch.
Storage & Freezing Instructions
- Refrigerator: Cover and chill for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Wrap in plastic + foil and freeze up to 3 months
- Reheating: Use oven at 300°F to re-crisp the topping. Or microwave briefly for a quick treat.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic: Warm with vanilla ice cream
- Healthy: Top with Greek yogurt and honey
- Fancy: Serve in ramekins with mint leaves and powdered sugar
- Fun twist: Make mini peach crisps in muffin tins for portion control
For creative twists, consider pairing with other summer desserts like this ultimate dessert pizza.
Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~285
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 28g
- Protein: 3g
Make it healthier by reducing sugar and swapping in oats or nuts!
FAQs About Peach Crisp
Do I need to peel the peaches?
No! Thin skins add texture, color, and nutrition. But if you prefer smooth filling, peel them using the blanching method.
Can I make peach crisp ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep the filling and topping separately, refrigerate, then combine and bake when ready.
Why is my topping soggy?
Usually caused by:
Peaches too juicy (add more cornstarch)
Topping pressed down too hard
Not baking long enough
What’s the difference between crisp, crumble, and cobbler?
Crisp: Oats in topping
Crumble: Streusel topping, no oats
Cobbler: Cake or biscuit topping
Can I use other fruits?
Yes! Try blueberries, apples, or nectarines. Just keep the ratios consistent.
Get Creative: Peach Crisp Variations
- Peach + blueberry crisp
- Vegan peach crisp with coconut oil
- Almond oat topping
- Caramel drizzle or bourbon in the filling
- Breakfast crisp with Greek yogurt
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a baking pro or a total newbie, this peach crisp recipe is easy, adaptable, and so rewarding. Customize it to your taste, try different fruits, and don’t forget to enjoy it warm with a big scoop of ice cream.
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The Ultimate Guide to Making the Perfect Peach Crisp
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Description
A warm, comforting peach crisp made with juicy peaches, a hint of cinnamon, and a golden oat topping. Perfect for any season, and easy to make with fresh, frozen, or canned peaches.
Ingredients
6–8 fresh peaches, sliced (or use frozen/canned)
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
½ tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp cornstarch
½ tsp ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
¾ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
½ cup old-fashioned oats
⅓ cup brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ tsp ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
6 tbsp cold unsalted butter
½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, toss peach slices with granulated sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, cornstarch, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
Pour the peach mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
In another bowl, mix together the flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
Add the cold cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or fork to blend the butter in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the peach filling.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbling around the edges.
Allow the peach crisp to cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. It’s delicious served warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
You can use canned or frozen peaches when fresh ones aren’t in season. Make sure to drain them well.
To make this recipe gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free oat and flour blend.
This crisp can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (of 8)
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 125mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: peach crisp, easy fruit dessert, oat topping, gluten-free peach crisp, summer dessert