Introduction to Baked Peaches
Baked peaches are an elegant yet simple dessert that can turn an ordinary meal into something truly special. These juicy fruits, when baked, take on a delightful tenderness and sweetness that simply can’t be matched. Why choose baked peaches, you ask? For starters, they're incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients—peaches, butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon—you can create a dish that impresses without the time commitment.
Not only do baked peaches taste fantastic, but they're also a healthier dessert alternative, with about 87 calories per serving. This naturally sweet treat allows you to indulge without straying too far from your health goals. Plus, they are versatile! Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with a splash of cream for an irresistible finish.
If you're looking for a light yet satisfying dessert, consider this: Homemade baked peaches are a delightful way to embrace the bounty of summer. Whether you're hosting dinner guests or simply wanting to enjoy a cozy night in, baked peaches are a crowd-pleasing option. Don't hesitate to explore more about the benefits of fruit-based desserts over at Healthline and elevate your next sweet treat!
Ingredients for Baked Peaches
When you're craving a quick yet indulgent dessert, look no further than these baked peaches. They’re super easy to make, requiring just a handful of wholesome ingredients!
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4 ripe large peaches: Choose peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for the best results. Fresh, juicy peaches add a delightful sweetness that's hard to beat!
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4 tablespoons salted butter: Slice it into small pieces to enhance the flavor as it melts. The butter creates a rich, luscious sauce at the bottom of your baking dish.
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3 tablespoons brown sugar: You can use light or dark brown sugar, depending on your preference for sweetness and flavor depth. It caramelizes beautifully with the peaches and butter.
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½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: This spice adds a warm, comforting aroma. Feel free to adjust the amount if you're a cinnamon lover; a little extra never hurts!
These basic ingredients work in perfect harmony, creating a delectable dessert in under 30 minutes. You can also check out more peach recipes here. Enjoy the process of baking—you might find you'll want to make this again and again!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Baked Peaches
Baked peaches are not just a treat; they're a delightful way to balance sweetness with simplicity. Follow this step-by-step guide to whip up a batch of these luscious beauties, perfect for any occasion!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before diving into cooking, it’s important to have everything on hand. Gather these simple ingredients:
- 4 ripe large peaches: Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch—this indicates they’re ready for baking.
- 4 Tablespoons salted butter: Sliced into 8 small pieces (this helps them melt evenly over the peaches).
- 3 Tablespoons brown sugar: Light or dark brown sugar will work, depending on your preference.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: This spice adds a warm, cozy flavor to your dessert.
Having all your ingredients ready will make the process feel seamless and enjoyable.
Prepare the Peaches
Now that you have everything gathered, it’s time to prepare your peaches. Here's how:
- Rinse: Start by rinsing each peach under cold water.
- Dry: Use paper towels to gently pat them dry—this keeps things tidy.
- Slice: With a sharp knife, slice the peaches in half and carefully remove the pits. If a little flesh comes out with the pit, no worries; it's all going to taste delicious anyway!
The juicy, tender peaches are the stars of this baked peach recipe, and prepping them properly will ensure they shine in the finished dish.
Assemble in Baking Dish
Next, you’ll want to layer your prepared peaches in a baking dish:
- Place the peach halves, cut side up, into a 9x13-inch baking dish. There’s no need to grease the dish, as the butter will take care of that during baking.
This step is simple, yet it sets the stage for a beautifully baked peach dessert that everyone will enjoy.
Add Butter, Sugar, and Cinnamon
Now the fun part begins! It’s time to enhance our peaches:
- Butter: Take your sliced pieces of butter and place one in the center of each peach half.
- Sugar: Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the peaches.
- Cinnamon: Finally, dust the ground cinnamon over everything for that wonderful aroma and flavor.
As the peaches bake, these ingredients will melt together, creating a delicious sauce that you won’t want to miss!
Bake to Perfection
You’re almost there!
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Once it’s heated, place your baking dish inside.
- Bake uncovered for 12-15 minutes, or until the peaches are softened and warmed through. You’ll know they’re ready when they smell heavenly!
After pulling your baked peaches from the oven, let them cool for a minute before serving. Consider topping them with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, and drizzle on any extra butter sauce left in the dish.
Enjoy this delightful, light dessert that’s sure to impress your friends and family! For more peach-inspired recipes, check out this guide on peach varieties to find your favorites for baking!
Variations on Baked Peaches
Baked peaches are a delightful canvas for creativity, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and textures. Here are a couple of delicious variations to elevate your baked peaches experience.
Baked Peaches with Granola
Transform your baked peaches into a crunchy treat by topping them with granola. After baking, sprinkle a handful of your favorite granola over the warm peaches. This addition provides a satisfying crunch, making each bite feel indulgent but still healthy. You can even add a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.
Baked Peaches with Honey and Nuts
For a nutty twist, drizzle baked peaches with honey and sprinkle them with toasted nuts. Almonds or walnuts work well here, adding richness and a wonderful texture. The honey enhances the natural sweetness of the peaches, creating a blissful balance. Pair this with a scoop of ice cream for an extra special dessert that your friends will love!
Want to explore more toppings and variations? Check out Cooking Light for additional inspiration!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Baked Peaches
Baked peaches are a delightful treat, but a few tips can elevate your dish. First, ensure your peaches are ripe but still firm. This ensures they hold their shape during baking.
Consider experimenting with toppings like chopped nuts or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of coconut milk can enhance the creaminess when serving.
Remember, the baking time may vary depending on your peaches' ripeness; you want them tender but not mushy. For a quicker clean-up, line your baking dish with parchment paper. Enjoy this easy recipe that’s sure to impress!
Serving Suggestions for Baked Peaches
Baked peaches are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience:
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Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: Top your warm baked peaches with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or homemade whipped cream. The creamy texture beautifully complements the warm, juicy fruit.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds or walnuts over your serving for an added crunch and richness. Nuts not only enhance flavor but also pack a healthy punch of protein.
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Drizzle of Honey: For a touch of natural sweetness, drizzle some honey or maple syrup over your peaches just before serving. This adds a delightful finish.
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Pair with Yogurt: For a breakfast twist, serve your baked peaches alongside Greek yogurt. It’s a perfect, wholesome way to start your day!
Whether you choose a simple topping or get creative, these ideas will surely impress your guests!
Time Breakdown for Baked Peaches
Preparation Time
Getting started with your baked peaches is a breeze! It only takes about 10 minutes to prep those luscious peaches. You’ll rinse, slice, and arrange them in your baking dish in no time.
Cooking Time
Next, let your oven work its magic. The cooking time for your baked peaches is just 15 minutes. During this time, the peaches will soften and the aromas of butter and cinnamon will fill your kitchen.
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at a swift 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a delightful dessert that won’t keep you in the kitchen all evening!
Feel free to explore some tips on selecting the best peaches from The Spruce Eats to ensure your dish is a hit!
Nutritional Facts for Baked Peaches
Calories
Each serving of baked peaches contains approximately 87 calories, making them a guilt-free dessert option. You'll enjoy the sweet satisfaction without overindulging!
Sugar Content
With about 12 grams of sugar per serving, the sweetness comes primarily from the natural sugars found in the peaches. Opt for fresh, ripe peaches to keep this treat wholesome.
Fiber
Packed with 2 grams of fiber per serving, these baked peaches not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also contribute to your daily fiber intake, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Baked peaches are a delightful treat that merge indulgence with nutrition. Each ingredient plays a role, and you can enjoy these juicy fruits with a clear conscience. Consider this tasty dessert as a way to incorporate more fruit into your meals! For more health insights, you can check out resources like Healthline or the USDA FoodData Central.
FAQs about Baked Peaches
Can I use frozen peaches instead?
Absolutely! Frozen peaches can be a great alternative, especially if fresh ones aren't in season. Just remember to thaw them beforehand and drain any excess liquid. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different compared to fresh peaches, but they'll still be deliciously sweet when baked!
What other toppings can I use?
The beauty of baked peaches lies in their versatility! While the classic butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon combination is delightful, feel free to get creative. Consider adding:
- Crushed nuts for crunch
- Oats for a crumbly topping
- Honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness
- A dollop of yogurt for a tangy contrast
These toppings can elevate your baked peaches experience!
How long can baked peaches be stored?
If you have any leftovers, store your baked peaches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them gently in the oven or microwave for a quick and tasty snack. You could even serve them cold atop a salad or blend them into a smoothie for a nutritious boost!
For more on the health benefits of peaches, check out this health guide. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Conclusion on Baked Peaches
Baked peaches are truly a delightful dessert that blend simplicity and flavor perfectly. They’re quick to prepare and make a great impression at any gathering. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a treat that feels indulgent but is wonderfully light. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Baked Peaches
Equipment
- oven
- baking dish
Ingredients
Peaches
- 4 large ripe peaches
Butter
- 4 Tablespoons salted butter sliced into 8 pieces
Sugar
- 3 Tablespoons brown sugar packed
Spices
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375F degrees. Rinse 4 ripe large peaches under cold water to clean then gently dry with paper towels.
- Slice peaches in half and remove pits.
- Add peaches, cut side up, into a 9x13-inch baking dish (you do not need to grease the baking dish first).
- Divide the 4 Tablespoons salted butter, sliced into 8 pieces into the center of each peach half.
- Sprinkle 3 Tablespoons brown sugar, packed and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon evenly across the top of each of the peach halves.
- Place baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 12-15 minutes, until peaches are softened and warmed through.
- Serve immediately with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, and drizzle any extra butter sauce on top, enjoy!
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