As summer's warmth wraps around us, I find myself yearning for simple joys—like biting into a juicy peach or savoring sun-kissed strawberries. This Easy Peach Strawberry Crisp brings all that seasonal ecstasy into a delightful dessert that’s surprisingly easy to whip up. With tender fruit bubbling beneath a golden, buttery oat topping, it’s the perfect sweet treat for gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Not only is this recipe a crowd-pleaser, but it also makes the most of fresh, vibrant ingredients while being vegetarian-friendly. Serve it warm, and if you're feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream atop the crisp will have everyone coming back for seconds. Are you ready to elevate your summer dessert game with this delightful twist?
Why is Peach Strawberry Crisp a Must-Try?
Simplicity in Preparation: This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
Fresh and Flavorful: Bursting with juicy peaches and strawberries, it celebrates the essence of summer in every bite.
Versatile Options: Change it up by trying different fruits like blueberries or even adding warm spices for unique twists.
Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Whether gatherings or quiet nights at home, this crisp will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Perfect with Ice Cream: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a luscious, indulgent touch that everyone loves.
Seasonal Delight: Utilizing fresh produce, this dessert is a delightful way to savor the best flavors of the season.
Peach Strawberry Crisp Ingredients
For the Fruit Layer
- Fresh Peaches – Use ripe, in-season peaches for the sweetest flavor base.
- Fresh Strawberries – Halved or quartered, they add a vibrant color and a hint of tartness.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the fruit filling; adjust based on your sweetness preference.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 tbsp) – Helps thicken the fruit mixture; substitute with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
- Lemon Juice – Enhances the brightness of the fruit flavors.
- Ground Cinnamon (½ tsp) – Adds a warm, spicy note, optional yet recommended for depth.
- Ground Nutmeg (¼ tsp) – Complements the spices; feel free to replace with allspice.
For the Topping
- All-Purpose Flour (1 cup) – Forms the base of the topping; gluten-free flour works well too.
- Rolled Oats (1 cup) – Provides hearty texture; avoid instant oats for the crunch you desire.
- Light Brown Sugar (¾ cup) – Adds sweetness and richness; can substitute with coconut sugar for deeper flavor.
- Baking Powder (½ tsp) – Gives lift to the topping.
- Salt (¼ tsp) – Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- Cold Unsalted Butter (½ cup) – For a crumbly topping, ensure the butter is cold.
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (¼ cup, optional) – Adds crunch and flavor; almonds or other nuts can be used instead.
For Serving
- Vanilla Ice Cream – Recommended to serve atop for added creaminess.
- Whipped Cream – An optional indulgent touch for serving.
Let your kitchen team up with seasonal ingredients for an unforgettable Peach Strawberry Crisp that will bring the charm of summer right to your table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peach Strawberry Crisp
Step 1: Prep Peaches
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Score the skin of each peach with a small X, then carefully lower them into the boiling water for 30 to 60 seconds. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the peaches to an ice bath to cool for a minute. The skins will slide off effortlessly; peel and slice the peaches into wedges.
Step 2: Prep Strawberries
While the peaches cool, hull the fresh strawberries and either halve or quarter them depending on their size. Place the prepared strawberries in a medium bowl. Ensure you have a mix of sizes for a delightful texture in the Peach Strawberry Crisp, capturing that enticing blend of sweet and tart flavors.
Step 3: Combine Fruit
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the sliced peaches with the prepared strawberries. Mix carefully to avoid squishing the strawberries, allowing their vibrant colors to shine through. This fruit blend will be the deliciously juicy base of your Peach Strawberry Crisp, so make sure they’re evenly distributed.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients to Fruit
Sprinkle granulated sugar, flour, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg over the fruit mixture. This will enhance the flavor and help thicken the juices as they bake. Use a gentle folding motion to mix until the fruits are lightly coated with the dry mixture, creating a tantalizing sweetness.
Step 5: Add Lemon Juice
Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the fruit mixture, adding brightness that complements the sweetness of the peaches and strawberries. This step not only enhances the flavors but also helps to prevent the fruit from browning as the Peach Strawberry Crisp bakes. Gently stir to incorporate.
Step 6: Toss Together
With care, toss the coated fruit mixture until everything is combined and the juices start to mingle. You want your fruit filling to be well-coated but not mushy, as it will expand and caramelize beautifully during baking. Set the bowl aside while preparing the topping.
Step 7: Prepare Topping Mixture
In another mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, rolled oats, light brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. This dry mixture forms the heavenly topping of your Peach Strawberry Crisp, bringing together those comforting, crumbly textures that pair so well with warm fruit.
Step 8: Cut in Butter
Add the cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces, to the dry topping mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until you achieve a crumbly consistency. The goal is to have small, pea-sized clumps of butter distributed throughout, which will create a beautiful crust as it bakes.
Step 9: Add Nuts (optional)
If you’ve chosen to include nuts, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts at this stage. Their crunch will add another delightful layer to your Peach Strawberry Crisp, enhancing both texture and flavor. Mix until they are evenly incorporated into the crumbly topping.
Step 10: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for the Peach Strawberry Crisp. A properly preheated oven ensures even cooking and helps achieve that golden, bubbling perfection that everyone will love when it comes out of the oven.
Step 11: Prepare Dish
While the oven heats, lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This will prevent the crisp from sticking and ensure easy serving when it's time to indulge in the warm, comforting dessert.
Step 12: Transfer Fruit & Topping
Pour the fruit mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Then, sprinkle the crumbly topping mixture over the fruit layer, ensuring it covers the fruits completely. This creates a delightful barrier that will crisp up beautifully while the fruit bubbles beneath.
Step 13: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the topping should turn a lovely golden brown, while the fruit filling will bubble enticingly around the edges, signaling that your Peach Strawberry Crisp is nearly ready.
Step 14: Cool
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling time lets the juices settle, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors as the sweet aromas fill your kitchen.
Step 15: Serve
Spoon the Peach Strawberry Crisp into bowls and serve warm, ideally with a scoop of luscious vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. The combination of warm fruit and creamy toppings will turn your dessert into an indulgent treat that leaves everyone delighted.
Expert Tips for Peach Strawberry Crisp
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Choose Ripe Fruit: Make sure your peaches and strawberries are ripe and in season for the sweetest flavor in your Peach Strawberry Crisp.
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Avoid Soggy Topping: Keep butter cold until it’s mixed into the topping to ensure a crumbly texture that won't become soggy as it bakes.
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Watch the Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so start checking your crisp around the 30-minute mark to avoid over-browning the topping.
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Let It Cool: Allow the crisp to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the juices set and makes for easier serving.
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Explore Variations: Don't hesitate to try different fruits or spices in your recipe for a personalized twist on the classic Peach Strawberry Crisp.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Peach Strawberry Crisp preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time on weeknights! You can prepare the fruit filling (peaches and strawberries mixed with sugar, lemon juice, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix everything and refrigerate covered to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the oat topping separately and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, simply layer the refrigerated fruit in your baking dish, sprinkle the topping over it, and bake as directed. This way, you'll have a warm and delightful Peach Strawberry Crisp ready with minimal effort on your part!
What to Serve with Easy Peach Strawberry Crisp
Imagine the sweet scent of summer wafting through your kitchen as you create a delightful meal around this warm and fruity dessert.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, its creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the warm, buttery topping of the crisp.
- Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop adds a touch of indulgence, balancing the tartness of the fruits with its sweet creaminess.
- Fresh Mint Sprigs: A garnish adds a burst of freshness that lifts the flavors and gives a sophisticated look to your dessert.
- Lemon Sorbet: The zesty, cool flavors play off the fruit's sweetness and provide a refreshing finish to your meal.
- Grilled Peaches: Enhance the peachy goodness by grilling peaches, bringing out their natural sugars and smoky flavor to accompany the crisp.
- Bubbling Sparkling Cider: Serve with a chilled glass of sparkling cider, whose effervescence will elevate your dessert experience and provide a refreshing contrast to the warm crisp.
- Peach Iced Tea: This fruity beverage echoes the flavors of your dessert while adding a cool refreshment to balance the sweetness.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, can add a savory edge to the sweetness of the Peach Strawberry Crisp.
- Berry Compote: Drizzling a mixed berry compote on top can enhance the flavor profile and add a tart touch that harmonizes with the crisp's sweetness.
Peach Strawberry Crisp Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Peach Strawberry Crisp and tailor it to your taste preferences and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the cold butter with coconut oil to enjoy a deliciously vegan version that still maintains that crumbly texture.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the topping and cornstarch in the fruit layer to ensure everyone can dive in without worry.
- Extra Spice: Add a pinch of cardamom to the fruit mixture for a unique twist that brings a fragrant warmth to each bite.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate slivered almonds instead of chopped pecans or walnuts for a different crunchy experience that complements the fruit beautifully.
- Berry Boost: Mix in blueberries or raspberries along with the peaches and strawberries for an explosion of color and flavor that’s both sweet and tart.
- Tropical Twist: Add some shredded coconut to the topping for a hint of the tropics, making your crisp even more summery and fun!
- Individual Ramekins: Bake individual servings in ramekins for a delightful presentation that makes serving and portion control a breeze.
- Heat it Up: If you enjoy a kick, throw in a dash of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños in the fruit layer for a surprising, spicy finish that pairs beautifully with the sweet fruit.
These ideas will let you enjoy the classic flavors of Peach Strawberry Crisp while adding your personal touch to this delightful dish. Don't forget to check out my tips on how to store and serve your crisp, ensuring it's just as delightful the next day!
How to Store and Freeze Peach Strawberry Crisp
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the Peach Strawberry Crisp fresh and ready to enjoy as a quick dessert.
Freezer: If you've got extra, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, pop individual servings in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. This will restore the crisp topping's delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestion: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat after reheating.
Peach Strawberry Crisp Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting peaches for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing peaches, look for ones that are ripe and slightly soft to the touch, free from any dark spots or wrinkles. The aroma should be sweet; this indicates freshness and ripeness. Using in-season peaches will yield the best flavor for your Peach Strawberry Crisp.
How should I store leftovers of Peach Strawberry Crisp?
Great question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s sealed properly to keep it fresh. For the best reheating experience, consider warming individual portions in the oven to restore the delightful crispiness of the topping.
Can I freeze Peach Strawberry Crisp for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled Peach Strawberry Crisp tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
What can I do if the topping turns out soggy?
Very! If you find your topping is soggy, it might be due to the butter being too soft or melting before baking. To fix this in the future, make sure your butter is cold and cut into small pieces. Also, avoid overmixing the topping, which can contribute to a dense texture. Keeping ingredients cold helps achieve that beautifully crumbly topping!
Is this Peach Strawberry Crisp safe for people with nut allergies?
I recommend it! If nut allergies are a concern, simply omit the chopped nuts from the topping or substitute with seeds such as sunflower seeds for added texture. This recipe remains delicious and accommodating to those who need nut-free options.
Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh for this recipe?
Absolutely! If fresh fruit isn’t available, frozen peaches and strawberries can work just fine. Just thaw the fruit and drain excess liquid before mixing with the sugar and flour. Keep in mind the texture might differ slightly, but it will still create a tasty Peach Strawberry Crisp!
Delicious Peach Strawberry Crisp That's Easy to Make at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Score the skin of each peach with a small X, then carefully lower them into the boiling water for 30 to 60 seconds. Transfer the peaches to an ice bath to cool for a minute. Peel and slice the peaches into wedges.
- While the peaches cool, hull the strawberries and either halve or quarter them depending on their size. Place the strawberries in a medium bowl.
- In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the sliced peaches with the prepared strawberries.
- Sprinkle granulated sugar, flour, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg over the fruit mixture. Use a gentle folding motion to mix.
- Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the fruit mixture, gently stirring to incorporate.
- Toss the coated fruit mixture until combined.
- In another mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add cold unsalted butter and mix until crumbly.
- If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour the fruit mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the topping mixture over the fruit.
- Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, until the topping is golden brown.
- Allow to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
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