If you’re craving a warm, sweet treat, you’ll adore this Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches recipe. The juicy peaches blend perfectly with cinnamon, brown sugar, and buttery goodness. It’s simple to make, uses just a few ingredients, and is perfect for any occasion. Plus, you can enjoy them warm with a scoop of ice cream! Let’s dive into how to create this irresistible dessert your family will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches
To make cinnamon sugar baked peaches, gather these simple ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (optional)
These ingredients work together to create a rich and sweet dessert. Ripe peaches bring sweetness and a tender texture. Brown sugar and cinnamon add warmth and depth of flavor. Unsalted butter helps the sugar melt and caramelize. Vanilla extract enhances the overall taste, while a pinch of salt balances the sweetness.
If you want some crunch, add chopped pecans. For an extra treat, serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. This dessert is not just easy to make; it is also a crowd-pleaser. Check out the Full Recipe to see how to prepare this delightful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key. A hot oven ensures the peaches bake evenly and become tender.
Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This blend adds a sweet and spicy flavor. Make sure it’s well combined to get that perfect taste in each bite.
Assemble the Peaches in the Baking Dish
Take your ripe peaches and cut them in half. Remove the pits. Place them in a baking dish with the skin side down. This helps hold the juices and flavors while baking.
Drizzle with Butter and Vanilla
In another bowl, mix the melted butter and vanilla extract. Then, drizzle this mixture over the peach halves. This adds richness and enhances the flavor of the peaches.
Bake to Perfection
Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over each peach half. If you like nuts, add chopped pecans for crunch. Bake the peaches in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. They should be tender and the sugar bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Once done, take the peaches out and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if you like. You can also drizzle the melted butter and juices from the baking dish over the top for extra flavor. Enjoy this sweet treat!
Tips & Tricks
Selecting the Perfect Peaches
Choose ripe peaches for the best taste. Look for peaches that feel soft but not mushy. The skin should have a nice color and a sweet smell. If you can, buy local peaches. They often taste better.
Modifying the Sugar Mixture
You can change the sugar mix for fun. Try using coconut sugar or maple sugar. Adjust the cinnamon to your taste. More cinnamon adds spice, while less gives a milder flavor. You can add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm touch.
Ensuring Even Baking
Place the peaches cut-side up in the dish. This helps them bake evenly. Make sure they are not crowded; space allows for even heat. If they touch, some may cook too fast. Halfway through, check and rotate your dish for even baking.
Presentation Tips for Serving
Serving can make your dish shine. Place each peach half on a small plate. Drizzle any melted butter and juices over them for a glossy look. Add a sprig of mint for color. A scoop of ice cream on the side looks inviting. For the full recipe, you can check the details above.
Variations
Grilled Cinnamon Sugar Peaches
Grilled peaches bring a smoky twist to this sweet treat. Start by halving the peaches. Brush them lightly with oil. This step helps them grill better. Place them cut-side down on a hot grill. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes. Flip them and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top. Grill for another 2 to 3 minutes. This method gives you juicy, caramelized peaches with a unique flavor.
Nut-Free Alternative
If you want a nut-free version, skip the pecans. The recipe still shines without them. You can replace them with crumbled graham crackers or oats. This change adds crunch and pairs well with the sweet peaches. Just sprinkle the alternative on top before baking. Enjoy the same warm, delicious taste without any nuts.
Adding Other Spices or Flavorings
Feel free to get creative with spices! Try adding nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor. A pinch of cardamom can also add warmth. If you like citrus, add a bit of orange or lemon zest. This twist brightens the dish and adds freshness. Mixing flavors keeps your dessert exciting and fun. You can explore endless combinations to find your favorite.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store leftover baked peaches, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Be sure to keep any extra topping, like ice cream, separate. This keeps everything tasty and fresh for your next dessert.
Reheating Instructions
When you want to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the peaches in a baking dish. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave. Just heat them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Make sure to cover them to keep moisture in.
Freezing Baked Peaches
If you want to freeze baked peaches, start by cooling them completely. Place the peaches in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for a few hours until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat them to bring back that yummy flavor. You can find the full recipe online if you need a reminder!
FAQs
Can I use canned peaches for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned peaches. Drain them well before baking. Canned peaches are softer, so reduce the baking time. Check for tenderness after 15 minutes. This ensures they do not turn mushy. Fresh peaches offer the best taste and texture, but canned works in a pinch.
How do I know when my peaches are ripe?
Ripe peaches feel slightly soft when you gently press them. They also have a sweet smell. The skin should have a vibrant color, usually golden or yellow. Avoid peaches that are hard or have dark spots. Ripe peaches taste sweet and juicy, perfect for baking.
What other toppings can I use besides ice cream or whipped cream?
You can try yogurt for a tangy twist. Crumbled cookies or granola add crunch. Fresh berries or a drizzle of honey enhance flavor. You could also use caramel sauce for a rich touch. Experiment with toppings you love to make this dessert your own.
How do I substitute for brown sugar?
You can mix white sugar with molasses. Use 1 cup of white sugar and 1 tablespoon of molasses. If you don’t have molasses, just use white sugar. The flavor will change slightly but will still be sweet. This keeps your dessert tasty and delicious.
What is the best way to serve cinnamon sugar baked peaches?
Serve warm, right out of the oven. Place each peach half on a plate. Drizzle with melted butter and juices from the dish. Add a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. Garnish with mint for a lovely touch. For the full recipe, check out the details given earlier.
These cinnamon sugar baked peaches are easy and fun to make. You now know the key ingredients and steps to create this tasty treat. We explored tips for picking the best peaches and even some fun variations. Remember, you can store leftovers and reheat them for later. Whether served warm with ice cream or grilled, they’re sure to please. Enjoy your peachy creation, and don’t be afraid to make it your own!
