There’s something magical about a peach crumble recipe that fills your home with the warmth of bubbling fruit and a golden crumb topping. Imagine serving up a dessert that blends the soft, juicy sweetness of peaches with the buttery, slightly crisp crunch of a crumble, pure comfort in every bite. Whether you’re pulling out ripe, summer peaches or reaching for a stash of frozen ones in winter, this peach crumble recipe is your go-to for simple, delicious, and crowd-pleasing satisfaction.
Jump to RecipePerfect for gatherings, dinner parties, or even a quiet night in, this easy crumble recipe is guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into how to make this timeless treat, and don’t worry if you’re new to baking—it’s surprisingly simple and endlessly rewarding!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Peach Crumble Recipe
- Perfect for Special Occasions: This easy crumble recipe is ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, summer BBQs, or even as a Thanksgiving dessert. Its warm, comforting flavor pairs well with any main course, making it a versatile choice.
- Beginner-Friendly: You don’t need baking experience to nail this easy crumble recipe. The steps are simple and forgiving, making this fresh peach dessert perfect for beginner bakers.
- Customizable: With so many possible variations, this fresh peach dessert can suit any taste or dietary preference, allowing you to create a unique dessert each time.
Peach Crumble Recipe
Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings15
minutes35
minutes300
kcal50
minutesSweet and buttery homemade fruit crumble with a crunchy crumb topping.
Ingredients
For Peach Filling:
5-6 ripe peaches, sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup light brown sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp cornstarchFor Crumb Topping:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
Directions
- Prep the Peaches: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, toss sliced peaches with granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
- Prepare the Crumb Topping: In another bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add cubed butter and use a pastry cutter to mix until crumbs form.
- Assemble: Place peach mixture in a baking dish. Evenly sprinkle crumb topping over the peaches.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let it cool slightly and serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- Calories: ~300 per serving
Nutritional Information (Per serving): 300 calories, 15g fat, 40g carbs, 3g protein
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Peaches: Peaches are the heart of this peach crumble recipe. Their natural sweetness, aroma, and juiciness are essential for a flavorful filling. If you can find locally sourced, organic peaches, they often have a richer flavor.
- Cornstarch: This ingredient plays a critical role in thickening the filling, helping the peach juices turn into a silky, almost jam-like consistency as the crumble bakes. If you prefer a gluten-free thickener, arrowroot powder or tapioca starch are good alternatives.
- Brown Sugar: Adds depth to both the filling and topping. Choose brands known for a robust flavor, such as Bob’s Red Mill or Wholesome Sweeteners, to elevate the taste.
- Butter: For the best flavor, high-quality, unsalted butter like Kerrygold or Plugrá makes a noticeable difference. Grass-fed butter is known for its rich, creamy flavor and works exceptionally well here. For a vegan option, Earth Balance offers plant-based alternatives that mimic the texture of butter.
How to Make the Best Peach Crumble Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Step 1 – Preparing the Peach Filling
When combining the peaches, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch, the mixture should feel juicy and sticky, with a slight gloss. The lemon juice adds brightness, cutting through the sweetness and enhancing the fresh peach aroma.
Step 2 – Creating the Crumb Topping
As you blend the cold butter into the flour and sugar, you should feel small pieces of butter that add texture to the topping. This crumb mixture should feel coarse and slightly chunky, with some parts resembling sand and others resembling small pebbles.
Step 3 – Assembling and Baking
After layering the peaches in the baking dish and sprinkling the crumb topping, you’ll notice that this homemade fruit crumble covers the peaches with a thick, even layer. As the homemade fruit crumble bakes, it should turn a rich golden brown, and you’ll smell the warm scent of butter and cinnamon filling your kitchen.
Expert Tips for Success
- Chill the Topping: Cold butter leads to a crispy, flaky texture in the crumble. If time permits, chill the topping for 10 minutes before baking.
- Choose Your Baking Dish Carefully: Glass baking dishes distribute heat more evenly, while metal dishes can bake faster and may brown the topping quicker.
- Test Peach Ripeness: Ripe peaches make the best crumble. If your peaches are underripe, try leaving them on the counter for a few days or add a bit of extra sugar for balance.
Variations and Customizations
This peach crumble recipe is a blank canvas for flavor exploration. Here are some easy ways to adapt it:
- Make It Vegan: Replace butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil.
- Add Warm Spices: For added flavor, mix in a pinch of nutmeg or ginger with the peaches. If you’re looking for another comforting dessert with a nostalgic touch, try this Easy Banana Pudding Recipe, which combines creamy layers with a sweet crunch.
- Lower the Sugar: Reduce the sugar by half or use a sugar substitute for a lighter version of this fresh peach dessert.
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds to the crumb topping for extra crunch and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing peach crumble with a cool, creamy element enhances the dessert experience. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic touch. For an extra indulgence, crumble some freshly baked cookies from this Nestle Toll House Cookie Recipe over the top to add a warm, chocolatey crunch.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream for a light, airy contrast.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for a rich, decadent finish.
- Sprinkle with fresh mint or cinnamon for a pop of color and a hint of spice.
This fresh peach dessert pairs beautifully with grilled meats or savory dishes. For a full meal pairing:
- Main Dishes: Grilled chicken, or BBQ ribs.
- Beverage Pairings: Pair this homemade fruit crumble with herbal teas like chamomile, and black coffee.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store any leftover fresh peach dessert in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To restore the crispy topping of this easy crumble recipe, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the crumble a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake fresh when ready for the best texture.
Related Recipes
If you love this peach crumble, you’ll likely enjoy these similar treats:
- Apple Crisp Recipe – A fall favorite that combines spiced apples with a crumbly topping.
- Easy Banana Pudding Recipe – A creamy, no-bake dessert perfect for any occasion.
- Nestle Toll House Cookie Recipe – A classic cookie recipe that’s perfect for serving alongside fruity desserts like peach crumble.
- Berry Crumble – Fresh or frozen berries bring a tangy twist to the classic crumble.
- Fruit Cobblers – For a change of texture, try cobblers with a soft biscuit topping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I make a single-serving version?
Use small ramekins and divide the ingredients accordingly. Bake for 15-20 minutes at 350°F.
Can I use canned or frozen peaches instead of fresh ones?
Absolutely! Both canned and frozen peaches work well in this peach crumble recipe. If using canned peaches, drain them thoroughly to avoid excess liquid in the filling. For frozen peaches, thaw and pat them dry before using. Both options may slightly alter the flavor and texture but will still be delicious!
Can I prepare this peach crumble recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the crumble a few hours ahead, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven as instructed. If you’d like to prepare it further in advance, consider freezing the unbaked crumble.
How do I freeze peach crumble?
To freeze, prepare the crumble in a freezer-safe baking dish but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the freezer, let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours, and bake as directed.
Can I make the peach crumble recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour in the topping with a gluten-free baking blend. Choose a blend that’s a 1:1 replacement for regular flour to maintain the right texture.
What sets an easy crumble recipe apart from a crisp?
Both are similar baked fruit desserts, but a crisp typically includes oats in the topping, giving it an extra-crunchy texture. A crumble is usually made without oats and has a slightly softer, sandier texture.
Can I make a single-serving version of this peach crumble?
Yes! Simply divide the ingredients into smaller portions and assemble them in ramekins or small baking dishes. Bake at the same temperature, but reduce the baking time to around 15-20 minutes or until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbly.
What can I serve with peach crumble?
This fresh peach dessert pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a twist, try a dollop of Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
How do I prevent the crumble topping from getting soggy?
To keep the topping crispy, make sure the butter is cold when mixing the topping. If the topping starts to soften while assembling, place it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before baking. Also, avoid over-mixing the topping so it doesn’t become too dense.
Can I add other fruits to this peach crumble?
Absolutely! Peach pairs well with berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. You can add them to the peach filling for a mixed-fruit crumble, adjusting the sugar and cornstarch as needed depending on the fruits you choose.
Can I make this crumble vegan?
Yes! Replace the butter in the topping with vegan butter or coconut oil, and you’ll have a vegan-friendly peach crumble.
How do I know when my crumble is done baking?
Your peach crumble is ready when the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. This usually takes about 30-35 minutes, depending on your oven.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover peach crumble?
Reheat the leftover crumble in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its crispiness. If you’re short on time, you can microwave it, but note that the topping might lose some of its texture.
Can I use this homemade fruit crumble recipe with other fruits?
Yes, you can substitute other fruits for peaches, like apples, pears, or a mix of berries. Adjust the sugar and cornstarch depending on the sweetness and juiciness of the fruits you use.
With its simplicity, adaptability, and irresistible flavor, this easy crumble recipe is one you’ll return to often. Feel free to experiment with spices, toppings, and substitutions to make it your own, and don’t forget to share your creations in the comments!