Summer’s bounty brings us the juicy sweetness of perfectly ripe peaches, and what better way to celebrate this seasonal delight than with these irresistible Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches? This simple yet elegant dessert requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Imagine the warm, tender peaches glistening with a caramelized cinnamon-sugar crust, their natural sweetness enhanced by the warm spices. It’s the perfect ending to a summer barbecue, a delightful addition to a brunch spread, or a comforting treat on a cozy evening. The aroma alone is enough to transport you to a sun-drenched orchard, promising a taste of pure summer happiness. This recipe is as easy as it is delicious, making it a go-to dessert for bakers of all skill levels. Get ready to experience the magic of perfectly baked peaches, infused with the comforting warmth of cinnamon and sugar. Let’s dive into the recipe that will quickly become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches Recipe
This Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy. With just a handful of readily available ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a stunning dessert on the table in under 30 minutes. The simplicity makes it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Secondly, the flavor profile is divine. The combination of sweet, juicy peaches, fragrant cinnamon, and the subtle caramel notes from the brown sugar creates a symphony of taste that’s both comforting and sophisticated. It’s the kind of dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth without being overly heavy or cloying. The beautiful presentation adds another layer of appeal – the glistening peaches arranged neatly in the baking dish are visually captivating, making this dessert worthy of any occasion.
Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this recipe offers incredible versatility. You can easily adapt it to your preferences and dietary needs. Want a richer flavor? Add a splash of vanilla extract to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Prefer a more intense cinnamon flavor? Increase the amount of cinnamon to your liking. The recipe is forgiving and readily adaptable. This adaptability makes it perfect for experimenting and creating your own unique variations. And let’s not forget the wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen while baking – the scent of cinnamon and baked peaches is truly enchanting. This recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience, a taste of summer encapsulated in a simple yet elegant dish. It’s a recipe that consistently impresses and leaves everyone wanting more.
Why You Should Try This Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches Recipe
Beyond the deliciousness, this Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches recipe offers numerous advantages that make it a worthwhile addition to your repertoire. It’s a fantastic way to showcase seasonal produce. Peaches at their peak ripeness are a true culinary treasure, and this recipe allows their natural sweetness and flavor to shine. This recipe is also a budget-friendly dessert option. Peaches are usually affordable, particularly during their peak season, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. It’s a far more economical option than many other store-bought desserts or complicated homemade alternatives. Furthermore, this recipe is highly adaptable to different dietary needs. You can easily adjust it to fit your preferences, and it is easily adaptable to suit different palates and preferences.
This Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches recipe is a great way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Its elegant presentation and delicious flavor will surely elevate any occasion. It’s a recipe that’s both impressive and effortlessly achievable, making it the perfect choice for everything from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce children to healthy baking. The simple steps and delicious result make it a fun and engaging activity for the whole family. If you are looking for a simple, impressive, and delicious dessert that utilizes seasonal ingredients, this recipe is a must-try. It combines ease of preparation, incredible flavor, and beautiful presentation – everything you could want in a summer dessert.
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches
- Peaches: 6 ripe but firm peaches. Choosing the right peaches is crucial for success. Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. Avoid peaches with bruises or blemishes. Keyword: Ripe Peaches
- Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup (1/2 stick), melted. Unsalted butter allows you to control the level of saltiness in your recipe. Make sure to melt the butter completely before adding it to the sugar mixture. Keyword: Melted Butter
- Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup. This provides the basic sweetness to the topping. You can experiment with different types of granulated sugar, such as coconut sugar or cane sugar, for variations in flavor. Keyword: Granulated Sugar
- Packed Light Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons. Brown sugar adds depth of flavor and a hint of caramel. Ensure it’s packed to get the right amount of sugar. Keyword: Brown Sugar
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 tablespoon. This is the star spice of the topping, providing a warm and comforting aroma and flavor. Adjust the amount based on your preference for cinnamon. Keyword: Ground Cinnamon
- Salt: A pinch. Salt enhances the sweetness of the peaches and balances the flavors. Don’t skip this ingredient, even a small amount makes a difference.Keyword: Pinch of Salt
Recommended Tools and Utensils
- Baking Dish: A medium-sized baking dish, approximately 8×8 inches or 9×13 inches, depending on the size of your peaches. Choose a dish that will comfortably hold the peach halves in a single layer.
- Medium Bowl: For mixing the cinnamon sugar mixture. A bowl that’s large enough to easily combine all the ingredients is essential.
- Whisk or Fork: To combine the melted butter and sugar mixture smoothly. A whisk creates a smoother mixture, while a fork works just as well.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measuring of ingredients. This ensures the best results and consistency in your recipe.
- Sharp Knife: To halve the peaches and remove the pits. A sharp knife makes this process easier and safer. A paring knife is ideal for this task.
- Baking Sheet (Optional): If your baking dish is not oven-safe, placing it on a baking sheet will provide additional stability.
Detailed Recipe Steps for Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the peaches bake evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown topping. **Essential:** Don’t start preparing the peaches until the oven is preheated.
- Prepare the Peaches: Wash the peaches thoroughly and carefully halve them. Remove the pits using a sharp knife or a melon baller. **Tip:** For a more elegant presentation, try to keep the peach halves as intact as possible while pitting them.
- Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk or fork until the mixture is smooth and well combined. **Important:** Make sure the butter is completely melted for even distribution.
- Arrange the Peaches: Arrange the peach halves, cut-side up, in a single layer in your prepared baking dish. Leave some space between each peach half to allow for even baking. **Tip:** Overcrowding the dish can lead to unevenly cooked peaches.
- Pour the Mixture: Pour the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the peaches, ensuring each half is coated. Use a spoon or spatula to gently distribute the mixture. **Note:** Don’t be shy with the topping; a generous coating will result in a beautifully caramelized crust.
- Bake the Peaches: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the peaches are tender and the topping is bubbly and slightly caramelized. **Check for Doneness:** Use a fork or knife to test the tenderness of the peaches. They should be soft but not falling apart.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the peaches cool slightly before serving. This allows the juices to settle and makes them easier to handle. **Tip:** Avoid overbaking, as this will dry out the peaches.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the warm Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches immediately. They are delicious on their own, or you can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dollop of Greek yogurt. **Suggestion:** For a more sophisticated dessert, serve them with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of chopped nuts.
Tips and Variations for Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches
This Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches recipe offers endless possibilities for customization. Here are a few tips and variations to enhance your baking experience:
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a more complex flavor profile. Experiment with other warm spices like ginger or allspice.
- Citrus Burst: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or orange zest to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a bright and refreshing twist.
- Sweet and Savory: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the cinnamon sugar mixture for a delightful sweet and salty combination.
- Bourbon Peach Delight: Add a tablespoon of bourbon or rum to the melted butter mixture for an adult twist on this classic dessert.
- Vegan Option: Replace the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. Make sure it’s fully melted and at room temperature before adding it to the mixture.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as there are no gluten-containing ingredients.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the peaches while they bake. Overbaked peaches will be dry and lose their delicious juicy texture. Start checking for doneness around 20 minutes.
- Peach Selection: Choose ripe but firm peaches. Avoid those that are overly soft or bruised, as they will not hold their shape well during baking.
- Baking Dish Size: Adjust the baking time slightly depending on the size and type of baking dish you use. A smaller dish might require slightly less baking time.
Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches
While this dessert is undeniably indulgent, it does offer some nutritional benefits. Peaches are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. Cinnamon is known for its potential anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels. However, remember that the added sugar and butter contribute significantly to the overall calorie content.
Approximate Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings): These values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For accurate nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator based on your exact ingredients and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 1-2 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-12 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30 grams
Note: This recipe is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The nutritional benefits of the peaches and cinnamon are somewhat offset by the added sugars and fats.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
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Conclusion: Enjoy Your Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches!
These Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches are a testament to the beauty of simple desserts. The combination of sweet, juicy peaches and warm cinnamon creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and irresistible. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your preferences and dietary needs. From adding a touch of spice to experimenting with different fruits, the possibilities are endless. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the pure summer delight that is Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches. This recipe is perfect for sharing with friends and family, creating lasting memories around a table filled with deliciousness.
We hope you enjoyed this recipe! Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. Let us know how your Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches turned out, and feel free to share your own variations and tips. And if you’re looking for more delicious peach recipes, be sure to check out our other recipes like Delicious Fresh Peach Fritters and Southern Peach Cobbler on our website! Don’t hesitate to share this recipe with your friends and family, and be sure to pin it to your Pinterest board for later! Check out our Pinterest page for more delicious recipes!