Sweet Baked Peaches

This simple cinnamon sugar baked peaches recipe transforms ordinary fruit into a decadent dessert with minimal effort. The warm spices and caramelized brown sugar create a heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen while baking, making it impossible to resist.

I first made these baked peaches during a late summer evening when I had an abundance of perfectly ripe peaches about to go bad. What started as a simple way to use up fruit quickly became my go-to impressive but effortless dessert for unexpected guests.

Ingredients

• Fresh ripe peaches: Choose fruit that yields slightly to gentle pressure but isn't mushy for the best texture after baking
• Butter: Creates a rich melted base that combines with the fruit juices
• Brown sugar: Caramelizes beautifully and adds a molasses note that complements the fruit
• Cinnamon: Provides the classic warm spice that pairs perfectly with peaches
• Nutmeg: Adds depth and complexity with its subtle earthy notes
• Cloves: Brings a hint of intense warmth that enhances the other spices
• Salt: A tiny pinch balances the sweetness and amplifies all other flavors
• Vanilla ice cream: The cool creamy contrast to the warm fruit is absolutely essential

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the peaches:

Cut each peach in half along the natural seam running around the fruit. Gently twist the halves in opposite directions to separate them. Use a small spoon to carefully remove the pit without damaging the fruit. Place the halves cut side up on your baking sheet.

Create the butter base:

Place a small piece of butter approximately half a tablespoon in the center of each peach half where the pit was removed. The butter will melt during baking and combine with the fruit juices to create a delicious sauce.

Mix the spiced sugar:

In a small bowl combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt using a fork to break up any lumps. The mixture should be uniform in color with all spices evenly distributed throughout the sugar.

Sprinkle and bake:

Generously sprinkle the spiced sugar mixture over each peach half making sure to get some into the center cavity where the butter sits. Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 8 to 12 minutes. The peaches are done when they are tender when pierced with a fork and the sugar has melted into a golden caramel sauce.

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The absolute magic of this recipe is in its simplicity. I found that even slightly underripe peaches transform beautifully during baking, becoming tender and sweet. My children, who normally turn their noses up at fruit desserts, request these baked peaches regularly, which feels like a parenting win.

Perfectly Ripe Peaches

Selecting the right peaches makes all the difference in this recipe. Look for fruits that smell noticeably fragrant and yield slightly to gentle pressure. If your peaches are very firm, they will need longer baking time and might benefit from a light brushing with lemon juice to prevent browning. Overly soft peaches will become mushy, so aim for that perfect middle ground of ripeness.

Easy Variations

This basic recipe works wonderfully with several adaptations. Try adding a tablespoon of bourbon to the butter and sugar mixture for an adult version. Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the peaches before baking for added texture. For a different flavor profile, substitute maple syrup for the brown sugar and add a pinch of cardamom. You can also try this method with other stone fruits like nectarines, plums, or apricots, adjusting the baking time for smaller fruits.

Make It A Complete Dessert

While these baked peaches are delicious on their own with vanilla ice cream, you can elevate the presentation for guests. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with toasted sliced almonds. Add a dollop of mascarpone cheese instead of ice cream for an Italian-inspired twist. For a lighter option, top with Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola. These peaches also make an unexpected breakfast treat served with a spoonful of ricotta and a drizzle of maple syrup.

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This dessert is effortlessly elegant yet full of comforting flavors, making it a staple for every peach season.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I know when peaches are ripe enough for baking?

The best peaches for baking should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not be mushy. They should smell sweet and fragrant at the stem end. Slightly firm peaches actually work well for baking, as they'll hold their shape better while still becoming tender.

→ Can I make this dessert with other stone fruits?

Absolutely! This method works beautifully with nectarines, plums, or apricots. Adjust baking time slightly for smaller fruits, checking for tenderness after about 6-8 minutes.

→ Do I need to peel the peaches before baking?

No, leaving the skin on helps the peach halves maintain their shape during baking. The skin also adds color, texture and nutrients. If you prefer skinless peaches, you can easily slip the skins off after baking.

→ What can I serve instead of vanilla ice cream?

While vanilla ice cream provides the perfect creamy contrast, you could also serve these peaches with whipped cream, mascarpone, Greek yogurt, or even a dollop of crème fraîche. For a dairy-free option, try coconut whipped cream or a quality non-dairy ice cream.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store cooled leftover peaches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or enjoy cold. The leftover peaches are also delicious chopped and added to morning oatmeal or yogurt.

→ Can I prepare these peaches in advance?

You can prepare the peaches and topping up to 4 hours ahead, but wait to bake them until shortly before serving. Baked peaches are best enjoyed warm from the oven, especially when paired with ice cream.