How to Make the Best Peach Crumble Recipe at Home

A Classic Dessert Made Easy

Peach crumble is a quintessential dessert that combines juicy, sweet peaches with a buttery, crispy topping to create a comforting treat that’s hard to resist. Its simplicity makes it a favourite for home bakers, while its rich flavours ensure it remains a timeless crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re taking advantage of fresh summer peaches or using canned or frozen ones during the off-season, this recipe is versatile and perfect for any occasion. From backyard BBQs to cosy evenings, a homemade peach crumble recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Peach Filling:

• 6 cups fresh peaches (peeled and sliced) or 2 cans (15 oz each) of peaches, drained.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the peaches.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the sweetness.
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (or 3 tbsp all-purpose flour): Thick the peach juices into a luscious filling.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth.
• Optional: ½ tsp vanilla extract for a hint of aromatic sweetness.

For the Crumble Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the base for the topping.
• ½ cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a subtle molasses flavour.
• ½ cup rolled oats: Contributes texture and crunch.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Infuse the topping with warmth.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed): Creates a buttery, crisp texture when baked.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls (one for the filling, one for the topping).
• Measuring cups and spoons.
• 8×8-inch baking dish or a similar-sized dish.
• Pastry cutter or fork (to cut butter into the topping mixture).
• Optional: Peeler for fresh peaches.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Peach Filling

• If fresh peaches are used, peel and slice them into even pieces. For canned peaches, drain thoroughly.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the peaches, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch (or flour), cinnamon, and vanilla extract (if using).
• Mix gently but thoroughly until the peaches are evenly coated. The mixture should be glossy and aromatic.
• Distribute the peach filling uniformly in the prepared baking dish.

3. Make the Crumble Topping

• Mix the flour, brown sugar, oats, and cinnamon in another bowl.
• Add the cold, cubed butter to the mixture. Cut the butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving a crumbly buttery topping.
• Optional: Chill the topping mixture in the refrigerator while preparing the peach filling to ensure it stays cold and crisps up nicely during baking.

4. Assemble and Bake

• Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the peach filling, ensuring complete coverage for a balanced bite in every spoonful.
• Position the baking dish on the center rack of the oven that has been preheated.
• Bake for 35–40 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbling around the edges.

5. Cool and Serve

• Remove the peach crumble from the oven and let it cool for 10–15 minutes. This enables the filling to firm up and simplifies the serving process.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a luxurious finishing touch.

Tips for the Best Peach Crumble

Fresh vs. Canned Peaches:

• Use fresh, ripe peaches when in season for the best flavour and texture.
• Canned or frozen peaches are great alternatives. If using frozen, thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess liquid.

Thicken the Filling:

• Cornstarch works well as a thickener, but flour can be used as an alternative. Adjust the quantity based on the juiciness of your peaches.

Chill the Topping:

• Keeping the butter cold ensures the crumble bakes into a crisp, golden topping.

Add Nutmeg:

• A pinch of nutmeg pairs beautifully with cinnamon and enhances the warm, spiced flavour of the dessert.

Make It Your Own:

• Add sliced almonds or chopped pecans to the topping for extra crunch.
• Mix some orange or lemon zest into the peach filling for a citrusy twist.

How to Serve Peach Crumble

• Classic Pairing: Serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Extra Sweetness: Drizzle caramel or honey over the crumble for added indulgence.
• Breakfast Twist: Enjoy leftovers cold or reheated with Greek yoghurt for a sweet breakfast treat.

How to Store Peach Crumble

• Chill: Keep any remaining food in a sealed container in the fridge for a maximum of 3 days.
• Reheat: To reheat, warm the crumble in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through.
• Freeze: Peach crumble can be frozen after baking. Wrap it tightly in aluminium foil and store it in an airtight container. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 250
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 8g
• Sugars: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 50mg

(Note: The nutritional values can differ depending on the particular ingredients utilized.)

A Dessert Everyone Will Love

This peach crumble recipe is as easy to make as it is delicious. Its juicy, spiced peach filling and buttery, crunchy topping will impress any crowd. Whether serving it warm with ice cream or savouring leftovers the next day, peach crumble is guaranteed to become a favourite in your recipe collection. Try it out, share your creations, and enjoy the flavours of this timeless dessert. Happy baking!

FAQs

1. Can I Use Frozen Peaches?

Yes! Thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the crumble.

2. Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend in filling and topping, and ensure the oats are certified gluten-free.

3. What’s the Difference Between a Crumble and a Crisp?

A crumble typically uses flour and butter for the topping, while a crisp includes oats or nuts for added crunch.

4. How Do I Prevent a Soggy Topping?

Use cold butter and evenly distribute the crumble mixture over the filling. Baking on the middle rack helps achieve a golden, crisp topping.

5. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the crumble, cover tightly, and refrigerate it unbaked. Bake fresh when ready to serve for the best texture.