The Best Ever Peach Crisp with Fresh Peaches
Jessica Tran
Indulge in the sweetness of summer with this irresistible peach crisp made with fresh, juicy peaches! Whether you prefer a classic oatmeal topping or want to go without oats for a lighter version, this recipe is versatile, easy, and perfect for any occasion. Pair it with vanilla ice cream for dessert heaven or enjoy it as a comforting treat anytime.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 40 minutes mins
Resting Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
9x9 Baking Dish or 10” Cast Iron Skillet (for baking the crisp)
Large Mixing Bowls (for preparing filling and topping)
Measuring Cups & Spoons (for precise ingredient amounts)
Knife & Cutting Board (for slicing peaches)
Lemon Juicer (for extracting fresh lemon juice)
Pastry Cutter or Fork (to cut butter into topping)
Air Fryer (optional, for alternative preparation)
Peeler (optional, for peeling peaches)
For the Filling:
- 6-8 medium fresh peaches sliced into 1/2-inch wedges (about 6 cups)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For the Topping:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour blend
- 1/2 cup rolled oats old-fashioned (omit for a no-oats version)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Substitutions:
- For Peaches: Use frozen thawed and drained or canned (drained) peaches.
- For Flour: Substitute with almond flour or gluten-free flour blends.
- For Butter: Replace with coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- For Brown Sugar: Use coconut sugar or maple syrup for a healthier alternative.
Preparing the Peaches
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using an air fryer, skip this step.
Wash peaches thoroughly. If desired, peel them by scoring an X on the bottom, blanching in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transferring to ice water to remove the skin easily.
Slice peaches into 1/2-inch wedges and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Making the Filling
Add granulated sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, cornstarch, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the bowl of sliced peaches.
Toss gently until peaches are evenly coated.
Transfer the peach mixture into a 9x9 baking dish or cast iron skillet, spreading it out evenly.
Preparing the Crisp Topping
In another mixing bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats (if using), brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Mix in vanilla extract.
Assembling and Baking the Crisp
Sprinkle the prepared topping evenly over the peach filling, ensuring it covers the peaches completely.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbling around the edges.
If using an air fryer, bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, monitoring frequently to prevent over-browning.
Resting and Serving
Remove from the oven and allow the crisp to cool for about 15 minutes to let the filling set.
Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Pro Tips
- Use ripe but firm peaches for the best texture. Avoid overly soft peaches as they can become mushy when baked.
- Keep butter cold before incorporating into the topping for a crumbly texture.
- Add 1/4 cup of chopped nuts to the topping for extra crunch.
- For a peach and blueberry crisp, replace 1 cup of peaches with fresh blueberries for a colorful twist.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Cover leftovers with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. Store for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Tightly wrap leftovers in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat chilled portions in a 300°F oven for 15 minutes or microwave individual servings for 30-45 seconds. Thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge before reheating.