Nothing beats the comforting aroma of cinnamon sugar baked peaches fresh out of the oven. This easy yet irresistible dessert combines juicy, ripe peaches with warm spices and a caramelized sugar topping. Whether you’re craving something sweet after dinner or looking for a healthier treat, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of flavor and nostalgia.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious homemade dessert that feels indulgent yet light. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the best baked peaches at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
- Naturally Sweet – No need for heavy processed sugars; the peaches do the work!
- Warm & Comforting – Perfect for cozy nights or summer gatherings.
- Customizable – Add nuts, ice cream, or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful treat:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Ripe peaches | 4, halved & pitted |
Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp, melted |
Brown sugar | ¼ cup, packed |
Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp |
Ground nutmeg | ¼ tsp (optional) |
Honey | 1 tbsp (optional) |
Vanilla extract | ¼ tsp (optional) |
Pinch of salt | Small amount |
Pro Tip: Choose ripe but firm peaches for the best texture. Too soft, and they’ll turn mushy when baked!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Peaches
- Slice each peach in half and remove the pit.
- Place the peach halves in the baking dish, cut side up.
3. Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Stir in the melted butter, honey, and vanilla extract (if using).
4. Coat the Peaches
- Spoon the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over each peach half.
- Let the sugar melt into the fruit for a few minutes before baking.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the peaches are tender and caramelized.
- If you prefer a crispy top, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes at the end.
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Let the peaches cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy them as they are or pair with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or granola for extra texture.
The Best Peaches for Baking
Not all peaches are created equal when it comes to baking! Here’s how to choose the best ones:
Freestone vs. Clingstone Peaches
- Freestone Peaches – Easy to pit, making them ideal for this recipe.
- Clingstone Peaches – Sweeter but harder to remove the pit.
Yellow vs. White Peaches
- Yellow Peaches – Slightly tart, creating a great balance with cinnamon sugar.
- White Peaches – Naturally sweeter but more delicate in texture.
Best Choice: Freestone yellow peaches for easy prep and great flavor!
Health Benefits of Baked Peaches
While this dessert feels indulgent, it’s packed with nutrients and antioxidants.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, Approximate)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 120 |
Carbohydrates | 25g |
Sugar | 18g |
Fiber | 3g |
Vitamin C | 15% DV |
Potassium | 8% DV |
Why This Dessert Is a Healthier Choice
- High in fiber – Supports digestion.
- Rich in antioxidants – Helps fight inflammation.
- Lower in added sugar – Relies on natural sweetness.
Toppings & Variations
Take your baked peaches to the next level with these delicious add-ons:
Classic Pairings
✔ Vanilla Ice Cream – A creamy contrast to the warm fruit.
✔ Greek Yogurt – Adds a protein boost and tangy flavor.
✔ Whipped Cream – Light and airy, perfect for a fancy touch.
Crunchy Additions
✔ Chopped Pecans or Walnuts – Adds a nutty crunch.
✔ Granola – Enhances the texture and fiber content.
✔ Toasted Coconut Flakes – A tropical twist.
Flavor Enhancements
✔ Drizzle of Caramel or Maple Syrup – For extra richness.
✔ Pinch of Sea Salt – Balances the sweetness beautifully.
✔ Dash of Cardamom or Ginger – Adds depth to the spice mix.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Got leftovers? No problem!
Storing Baked Peaches
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months (best without toppings).
Reheating Methods
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts until warm.
Tip: Reheat in the oven for a fresher taste and texture!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use canned peaches?
Yes, but fresh peaches yield the best texture. If using canned, drain them well and reduce the baking time to 10–15 minutes.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap butter for coconut oil or vegan butter.
3. What if my peaches aren’t ripe yet?
Place them in a paper bag with a banana to ripen quickly.
4. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the peaches and store them in the fridge uncooked for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
5. What other fruits can I bake using this method?
Try apples, nectarines, or pears for a similar warm and spiced dessert.
6. Can I make this recipe without an oven?
Yes! You can grill the peaches over medium heat for 5–7 minutes per side.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
Now that you know how to make the perfect cinnamon sugar baked peaches, it’s time to give it a try! Whether you enjoy them on their own, topped with ice cream, or served with granola, this dessert is sure to impress.
👉 Try this recipe today and share your experience! Let us know your favorite toppings or variations in the comments. Happy baking!
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Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches: A Sweet & Simple Dessert
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These cinnamon sugar baked peaches are a simple, sweet, and cozy dessert that comes together in minutes! Fresh peaches are coated in a buttery cinnamon sugar mixture and baked until warm and caramelized. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent yet light treat. Perfect for summer nights or any time you crave something naturally sweet and comforting!
Ingredients
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the peaches by slicing them in half and removing the pits. Place them cut side up in the baking dish.
- Make the topping: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir in the melted butter, honey, and vanilla extract (if using).
- Coat the peaches by spooning the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over each half. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to soak in.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the peaches are tender and caramelized. For a crispier topping, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or granola for added texture.
Notes
- Use freestone peaches for easier slicing and pit removal.
- If peaches are too firm, let them ripen for a day or two before baking.
- Make it dairy-free by substituting butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts or granola before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American