Indulge in the simplicity and deliciousness of our perfect, light dessert recipe for Baked Peaches, ready in under half an hour! These tender, sweet peaches are lovingly prepared with a delightful blend of rich butter, warm cinnamon, and sweet brown sugar, allowing the natural juiciness of fresh, ripe peaches to truly shine.

Contents

Baked Peaches: The Quintessential Sweet Summertime Dessert

Summer evokes images of sun-drenched days, outdoor gatherings, and, of course, an abundance of fresh, succulent peaches. This Baked Peaches recipe is the ultimate tribute to the season, offering a dessert that’s both deeply satisfying and wonderfully light. Whether you’ve just returned from a delightful peach-picking adventure or simply wish to make the most of this fleeting summer fruit, these baked peaches are an effortless choice that promises pure culinary joy.

What makes this recipe truly special is its remarkable simplicity. It allows the inherent sweetness and vibrant flavor of fresh peaches to take center stage, creating a dessert that feels wholesome and authentic. Unlike heavier options, these baked peaches provide a perfect, non-intrusive ending to those classic summertime grilled meals, leaving you feeling content without being overly full. They are also an absolute lifesaver when you need a quick, impressive dessert for unexpected guests or simply crave a sweet treat that comes together in minutes.

A few Baked Peaches in a baking dish, glistening with sauce and ready to be served. — Golden-brown baked peaches, perfectly caramelized and inviting.

A graphic of happy people, symbolizing positive feedback and community.

“This was ah-mazing! One of the best dishes I’ve ever made. Love the simplicity of this recipe; it truly lets you taste the ripe peach. I will definitely make this again.”
– Nicole

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Peaches

Can I make these peaches on the grill instead of baking?

Absolutely! Grilled peaches are a fantastic alternative and offer a wonderful smoky sweetness. In fact, they are so delicious that we have a dedicated Grilled Peaches recipe for you to explore. The quick cooking time and caramelized edges make them a perfect choice for outdoor cooking and a delightful variation on this classic dessert. The principles are similar, focusing on ripe fruit and a touch of sweetness, but the grilling method imparts a unique flavor profile.

How do I choose the perfect ripe peaches for baking?

Selecting ripe peaches is crucial for the best flavor and texture in your baked dessert. Look for peaches that yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed, but aren’t mushy. A sweet, fragrant aroma at the stem end is another excellent indicator of ripeness. Visually, ripe peaches typically display a golden-yellow hue, often with reddish blushes, and should not have any green tinge around the stem area. Avoid peaches that are too hard, as they won’t soften properly during baking, or those with significant bruises or blemishes.

Should I remove the skin from the peaches before baking them?

For this baked peaches recipe, we highly recommend keeping the skin on. The skin plays a vital role in helping the peach halves maintain their shape and integrity during the baking process, preventing them from turning into a mushy pulp. Moreover, as the peaches bake, their skins soften beautifully, becoming tender and barely noticeable. While many recipes like Peach Crisp or Peach Cobbler often call for peeled peaches, the skin here contributes to both structure and a pleasant texture. If you are truly averse to eating the skin, you can easily scoop out the tender peach flesh after baking, leaving the softened skin behind on your plate.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

Following this recipe as written, using four whole large peaches, will result in eight perfectly baked peach halves. This provides great flexibility for serving. You can serve each person a single peach half, making it enough for eight individuals, which is ideal as a lighter dessert or side dish. Alternatively, if you prefer a more substantial portion, each person can enjoy an entire peach (two halves), allowing this recipe to serve four people generously. The serving size can be adjusted based on your meal and preferences.

What is the best way to store and reheat leftover Baked Peaches?

It’s hard to imagine having leftovers of such a delicious treat, but should you find yourself with some, storing them correctly will ensure they remain delightful. Simply transfer any cooled baked peaches into an airtight container and refrigerate them. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them gently in an air fryer for a slightly crispy exterior, or quickly warm them in the microwave until heated through. This helps them regain their tender texture and warmth.

Can I freeze Baked Peaches for later enjoyment?

Yes, baked peaches freeze remarkably well, making them an excellent candidate for meal prep or preserving the taste of summer for colder months. Allow the peaches to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for an hour or two until solid. This prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe Ziploc bag or an airtight container, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months. To enjoy later, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat them in the oven, toaster oven, microwave, or air fryer until warmed through. They’ll be almost as good as fresh!

What if my peaches aren’t perfectly ripe?

While ripe peaches are ideal for the best flavor and texture, you can still bake slightly firm peaches. They may require a few extra minutes in the oven to soften properly. If your peaches are very firm, you might also consider increasing the amount of brown sugar slightly, as unripe peaches tend to be less sweet. The baking process will help bring out their natural sugars, but starting with ripe fruit guarantees a superior outcome. Always adjust baking time based on the peaches’ firmness.

Eight Baked Peaches neatly arranged in a rectangular baking dish, showcasing their golden-brown tops and rich sauce. — A whole pan of eight baked peach halves, ready for a crowd.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Baked Peaches

This recipe calls for a handful of simple ingredients that combine to create a truly magical dessert. Each component plays a crucial role in balancing flavors and achieving the desired texture.

Ripe Large Peaches: The star of our show! As discussed in the FAQ section above, choosing ripe peaches is paramount. Freestone peaches are generally easier to pit than clingstone varieties, but either will work beautifully. Their natural sweetness is amplified during baking, creating a soft, juicy interior.
Salted Butter: Butter adds a luscious richness and helps create that wonderful caramel-like sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. While salted butter is specified to enhance the overall flavor, unsalted butter works perfectly fine. If using unsalted, you might consider adding a tiny pinch of salt to the brown sugar mixture to help balance the sweetness.
Brown Sugar (packed): Brown sugar provides a deep, molasses-rich sweetness that complements the peaches and caramelizes beautifully as it bakes. You can use either light or dark brown sugar; dark brown sugar will impart a more intense, robust molasses flavor. For those managing sugar intake, brown sugar substitutes like Swerve or Trivia can be used, though the texture and caramelization might vary slightly.
Ground Cinnamon: This warm, aromatic spice is a classic pairing with peaches. It enhances their natural fruitiness and adds a comforting, inviting fragrance to the dessert. A little goes a long way, ensuring it doesn’t overpower the delicate peach flavor but rather elevates it. You could also experiment with a tiny pinch of nutmeg or a dash of allspice for a different warm spice note.

Close-up of the simple ingredients: fresh peaches, a stick of butter, a bowl of brown sugar, and a small dish of ground cinnamon. — Four key ingredients for a delightful peach dessert.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Irresistible Baked Peaches

Preparing these baked peaches is incredibly straightforward, making it an ideal recipe for both novice and experienced bakers. Follow these simple steps for a perfect outcome every time.

Preparation Phase: Get Your Peaches Ready

**Preheat Oven and Prepare Peaches:** Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, gently rinse your ripe peaches under cool running water to clean them. Use paper towels to gently pat them dry, removing any excess moisture. This ensures the butter and sugar adhere better.
**Halve and Pit Peaches:** Carefully slice each peach in half, following the natural seam around the pit. Twist the halves gently to separate them, then remove the pit. If you have freestone peaches, the pit should come out easily. For clingstone varieties, you may need a small spoon or paring knife to carefully work the pit out. Ensure you create a small cavity where the pit used to be.
**Arrange in Baking Dish:** Place the peach halves, cut side up, into a 9×13-inch baking dish. You do not need to grease the dish beforehand, as the butter from the peaches will create its own non-stick surface and a delicious sauce. Arranging them cut side up allows the butter and sugar to melt directly into the peach flesh.

A collage showing two preparation stages: eight peach halves with pits removed in a baking dish, and butter slices placed into the center of each peach half. — Step-by-step visuals: peaches halved and butter added.

Flavoring and Baking

**Add Butter:** Divide the 4 tablespoons of salted butter into eight roughly equal pieces. Place one slice of butter directly into the center cavity of each peach half. As it melts, the butter will infuse the peach with richness and mix with the sugar to form a delectable sauce.
**Sprinkle with Sweetness and Spice:** Evenly sprinkle the 3 tablespoons of packed brown sugar and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon across the top of each peach half. Ensure a good, even coating for consistent flavor and caramelization.
**Bake to Perfection:** Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for approximately 12 to 15 minutes. The baking time can vary slightly depending on the ripeness and size of your peaches. You’ll know they’re ready when the peaches are fork-tender and warmed through, and the butter and sugar have melted into a glossy, fragrant sauce at the bottom of the dish.

A collage depicting the next steps: brown sugar and cinnamon sprinkled over peach halves with butter, followed by a photo of the fully baked peaches in the dish. — From sprinkling to golden-baked goodness.

Serving Your Delicious Creation

**Serve Immediately:** These baked peaches are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. The warmth brings out their full flavor and juicy texture. For an extra touch of indulgence, serve each peach half with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Don’t forget to drizzle any extra butter-sugar sauce from the bottom of the baking dish over the peaches and ice cream – it’s pure liquid gold!

Baked peaches are incredibly versatile. Beyond ice cream and whipped cream, consider serving them with a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch, a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a tangier contrast, or even a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. They make a fantastic breakfast or brunch item when served alongside granola or oatmeal, or a elegant addition to a summer fruit platter. Enjoy the simple pleasure of this homemade delight!

A beautifully plated Baked Peach half, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a garnish, ready to be enjoyed. — The perfect presentation: baked peach with a cool topping.

Craving More Summertime Peach Recipes?

If you’re as enamored with peaches as we are, you’re in luck! There’s a whole world of peachy deliciousness to explore. Here are some of our favorite recipes that celebrate this incredible fruit, perfect for any occasion from breakfast to dessert:

Easy Fresh Peach Dumplings: A comforting classic with flaky pastry and sweet peaches.
Peach Butter Swim Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits baked in a pool of peachy butter.
Easy Fresh Peach Crisp: A quintessential summer dessert with a crumbly topping.
Peach Cobbler Cake: The best of both worlds – cake and cobbler!
Peaches and Cream Bars: A delightful layered dessert, creamy and fruity.
Peach Dump Cake: The easiest peach dessert you’ll ever make.
Skillet Peach Cobbler: A rustic and comforting dessert, perfect for sharing.
Homemade Peach Pie Filling: Ideal for pies, tarts, or simply spooning over ice cream.
Easy Fresh Peach Cake: A tender cake bursting with fresh peach flavor.
Peach Dumpling Bubble Up: A fun and bubbly twist on traditional dumplings.
Country Peach Cobbler: A timeless recipe that evokes warmth and homestyle comfort.
Peach Yum Yum: A deliciously layered, creamy, and crunchy peach dessert.
Peach Cobbler Egg Rolls: An innovative and delightful fusion dessert.

Baked Peaches

The perfect, light dessert recipe ready in under half an hour! Tender, sweet Baked Peaches with butter, cinnamon, brown sugar, and of course, fresh juicy peaches!

5 out of 5 stars based on 3 Reviews

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Prep Time:
10 minutes

Cook Time:
15 minutes

Total Time:
25 minutes

Servings:
8 servings

Author:
Brandie Skibinski

Ingredients

4 ripe large peaches
4 Tablespoons salted butter, sliced into 8 pieces (as best as possible)
3 Tablespoons brown sugar, packed (light or dark brown sugar can be used)
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). 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 9×13-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!

Notes

Please refer to my FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions) and ingredient list above for other substitutions or for the answers to the most common questions regarding peach selection and preparation.
For an even richer flavor, you can toast some chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) and sprinkle them over the peaches before serving.
A tiny splash of bourbon or rum can be added to the butter and brown sugar mixture for an adult twist on this classic dessert.

Course:
Dessert, Side Dish, Brunch

Cuisine:
American, Southern

Nutrition

Nutritional Disclaimer

“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used. This information should not be considered a substitute for professional nutritional advice.

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