Craving a sweet summer treat? This easy strawberry peach crisp is a homemade family favorite made with fresh peaches and strawberries, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner dessert, save for later

Peach Dessert Recipes: Easy Strawberry Peach Crisp

Introduction

Indulge in the sweetness of summer with our Easy Strawberry Peach Crisp, a dessert that embodies the perfect balance of flavors and textures. This recipe is a masterclass in simplicity, requiring minimal effort for a dish that’s sure to impress. By combining the natural sweetness of peaches and strawberries with a crunchy oat topping, you’ll create a dessert that’s both comforting and refreshing. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, using everyday ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a little sweetness to their summer.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of peaches and strawberries provides a sweet and tangy flavor profile that’s hard to resist, and the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets.
Ease of preparation: This recipe requires minimal prep time and effort, making it perfect for a quick dessert or a special occasion.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the end result is a beautifully presented dessert that’s sure to impress your friends and family.

Key Ingredients

The star of the show in this recipe is, of course, the peaches and strawberries. You’ll need 2 cups of sliced peaches and 1 cup of sliced strawberries. In addition to the fruit, you’ll need 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to make the filling. For the topping, you’ll need 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts), and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. You can also use other types of sugar, such as honey or maple syrup, and substitute the nuts with seeds or coconut flakes if you prefer.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix together the sliced peaches and strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice until the fruit is evenly coated.
Step 2: Transfer the fruit mixture to a 6-inch baking dish and set aside. In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, brown sugar, chopped nuts, and cinnamon until well combined.
Step 3: Add the oat mixture on top of the fruit filling, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
Step 4: Bake the crisp in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.

Handy Tips

Make sure to slice the peaches and strawberries evenly so that they cook consistently. You can also use other types of fruit, such as blueberries or raspberries, if you prefer.
Don’t overmix the oat topping, as this can make it tough and dense. Instead, mix the ingredients until they’re just combined, then stop mixing.
If you’re using a different type of sugar, such as honey or maple syrup, keep in mind that it may affect the flavor and texture of the dish. You can also reduce the amount of sugar if you prefer a less sweet dessert.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking the crisp is 375°F (190°C), and the cooking time is around 35-40 minutes. You can check for doneness by looking for a golden brown topping and a tender fruit filling. If you’re unsure, you can insert a knife or fork into the fruit to check for tenderness.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this recipe comes from the oat topping, which provides a nice texture contrast to the soft fruit filling. To achieve the perfect crunch, make sure to bake the crisp for the full 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown. You can also broil the crisp for an extra 1-2 minutes to get an extra crunchy topping, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

Use a variety of spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom, to add depth and warmth to the dish. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
Experiment with different types of sugar, such as honey or maple syrup, to create a unique flavor profile. Keep in mind that these sugars can be more expensive and may have a stronger flavor than granulated sugar.
Make individual servings of the crisp in ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a fun and easy dessert. This is perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.

Storage Tips

Let the crisp cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Reheat the crisp in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can also serve it cold, topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Freeze the crisp for up to 2 months, then thaw and reheat as needed. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may be affected by freezing and reheating.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This crisp is perfect for gifting to friends and family, especially during the summer months. Consider packaging it in a beautiful glass jar or container, topped with a ribbon or gift tag. You can also add a few fresh flowers or a sprig of mint to make it look more appealing. If you’re giving it as a gift, consider including a few serving suggestions or recipe variations to make it more special.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Add a splash of citrus, such as lemon or orange zest, to the fruit filling for a bright and tangy flavor.
🌟 Use different types of nuts, such as pecans or hazelnuts, to add texture and flavor to the oat topping.
🌟 Substitute the peaches and strawberries with other types of fruit, such as blueberries or raspberries, to create a unique flavor profile.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the crisp is too crunchy or too soft, adjust the baking time or temperature accordingly. You can also try broiling the crisp for an extra 1-2 minutes to get a crunchier topping.
Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have a certain ingredient, such as cornstarch or lemon juice, you can substitute it with a similar ingredient or omit it altogether. Keep in mind that this may affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Over/undercooking signs: If the crisp is overcooked, it may be too brown or dry. If it’s undercooked, the fruit may be too raw or the topping may be too soft. Adjust the baking time or temperature accordingly to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the crisp for up to 2 months, then thaw and reheat as needed. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may be affected by freezing and reheating.
Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. However, if you’re using a type of oat that contains gluten, be sure to substitute it with a gluten-free alternative.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger batch of the crisp. Simply multiply the ingredients accordingly and adjust the baking time or temperature as needed.

Conclusion

This Easy Strawberry Peach Crisp is a dessert that’s sure to become a summer staple. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a little sweetness to their summer. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious flavors of the season!

Easy Strawberry Peach Crisp Dessert Recipes