Nothing compares to the flavor and texture of fresh fruit when it’s in season. During peach season, from June through August, a peach crumble is the best way to enjoy the juicy fruit. Plus, it will fill your house with an incredible aroma when it’s baking!
This quick, simple dessert features a layer of sliced peaches beneath a golden topping. Share this crumble at a weekend barbecue with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect summer treat.
What’s the difference between peach crumble and peach crisp?
The difference between crumbles and crisps is the topping. A fruit crisp typically includes oats in the topping, which creates a streusel-like topper for fresh fruit. A crumble, on the other hand, has a thicker, cake-like topping.
Ingredients for Peach Crumble
- Peaches: This recipe demands fresh, tree-ripened peaches. If you don’t have them, frozen will do.
- Brown sugar: Add a small amount of brown sugar to the peach layer to make the flavors burst with the combination of sweet and tart.
- All-purpose flour: Flour is added to the peach layer to help prevent the fruit from becoming soggy.
- Lemon juice and zest: Lemon juice and lemon zest brighten the flavor of this dessert. For best results, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest when preparing this recipe.
- Cinnamon: Cinnamon enhances the flavor of the peaches. Cinnamon comes in two basic types: Ceylon and Cassia. The spicy, bolder cassia cinnamon (often labeled simply as cinnamon) is preferred for baking.
- Butter: Butter plays a key role in this peach crumble. Melt and cool the butter and then pour it over the dry mixture for the perfect topping texture.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the pan
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 2-1/2 quart Dutch oven, cast-iron pan or ovenproof baking dish, then layer in the peeled peaches.
Step 2: Make the brown sugar mixture
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, lemon juice, lemon zest and cinnamon. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the peaches.
Step 3: Make the crumble topping
Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and nutmeg. Stir in the egg until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Then sprinkle the crumble topping over the peaches. Pour the melted butter evenly over the topping.
Step 4: Bake and serve
Bake the peach crumble for 35 to 40 minutes. Serve this dessert warm, with vanilla ice cream if desired.
Recipe Variations
- Use a slow cooker: Skip the oven and use a slow cooker instead! Put the peaches and topping in a slow cooker with the lid on. Bake the peach crumble on low for three to four hours.
- Add other in-season fruits: Sub in fresh berries or sliced apples for some of the peaches.
- Top with a homemade sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce or berry sauce on top—and consider adding a dusting of flaky sea salt to create a sweet and salty flavor profile.
How to Store Peach Crumble
If you have leftovers, cover the top of the baking dish with plastic wrap or a lid. Store the peach crumble in the fridge for up to three days.
Peach Crumble Tips
Do you need to peel peaches for peach crumble?
Whether you peel the peaches for this peach crumble recipe is up to you. Some people prefer a smoother texture, while others love peaches with skin on. Either way, be sure to wash your peaches before using them.
Can you use frozen peaches for peach crumble?
The flavor of fresh, ripe peaches is unmatched. However, if they’re not in season or as accessible, frozen peaches can be used in this recipe. If you do plan to use frozen peaches, allow them to thaw before making the crumble. It’s helpful to add a bit more flour to the fruit mixture to help soak up the extra moisture from the frozen peaches.
How can you thicken the fruit for peach crumble?
This recipe uses a small amount of flour to help thicken the peach mixture. However, if you’d prefer an even thicker fruit layer, use cornstarch.
How do you serve peach crumble?
Peach crumble can be served on its own, whether warm out of the oven or at room temp. It can also be dressed up with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.
