Easy Peach Crumble Recipe | Summer Dessert with Cinnamon Oat Topping

Peach Crumble Recipe 

This Peach Crumble is a celebration of summer’s sweetest fruit! Juicy peaches are baked under a golden, crispy oat streusel flavored with cinnamon and brown sugar. Easier than pie but just as delicious, this dessert is ideal for weeknights, potlucks, or pairing with vanilla ice cream for a cozy treat.

Historical Facts

• Crumbles vs. Cobblers: Crumbles originated in Britain during WWII as a simpler, ration-friendly alternative to pies. The oat-and-flour topping was called a “crumble” due to its texture.
• Peaches in History: Peaches have been cultivated for over 4,000 years, first in China. They became a staple in the southern U.S. in the 19th century.
• Cultural Role: Crumbles are a nostalgic, homey dessert often linked to family gatherings and seasonal fruit abundance.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 6 cups fresh peaches, sliced (about 6-8 peaches)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

For the Crumble Topping:

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 blend)
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed (or vegan butter)
• ¼ cup chopped pecans or almonds (optional)

Instructions

1. Prep the Filling:
   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Toss peaches with sugar, lemon juice, vanilla, cornstarch, and cinnamon. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Topping:
   • In a bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in nuts (if using).
3. Assemble & Bake:
   • Sprinkle topping evenly over peaches.
   • Bake 35-40 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let cool 10 minutes before serving.
4. Detailed Instructions: 
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F) and grease a baking dish.
   • Peel and slice the peaches, then place them in a large mixing bowl.
   • Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, salt, and lemon juice to the peaches. Mix well to coat the peaches evenly.
   • In a separate bowl, combine the flour and cold butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • If desired, add rolled oats and chopped nuts to the crumble mixture for extra texture.
   • Spread the peach mixture evenly in the greased baking dish.
   • Sprinkle the crumble mixture over the peaches, covering them completely.
   • Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the peaches are bubbling.
   • Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat.

Recipe Notes

• Peach Substitutions: Use 6 cups frozen peaches (thawed) or a mix of berries.
• Gluten-Free: Use certified GF oats and gluten-free flour.
• Vegan: Swap butter for coconut oil or vegan butter.
• Storage: Keep covered at room temp for 2 days or refrigerate for 5 days.

Nutritional Info (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Carbs: 52g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 12g

What to Serve With Peach Crumble

1. Classic Pairings:

• À la Mode: Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Custard: Pour warm vanilla custard over the crumble.
• Sweet Sauces: Caramel drizzle or bourbon cream.

2. Savory Contrasts:

• Cheese Board: Serve with sharp cheddar or mascarpone for balance.
• Herbal Touch: Add fresh mint or basil garnish.

3. Brunch Upgrade:

• Pair with Greek yogurt and honey for a breakfast crumble.

4. Dietary-Friendly:

• Vegan: Coconut whipped cream or dairy-free ice cream.
• Low-Sugar: Skip ice cream and add unsweetened almond yogurt.

5. Seasonal Twists:

• Summer BBQs: Serve alongside grilled peaches or berry salad.
• Fall: Add a scoop of pumpkin spice ice cream.
• Winter Holidays: Pair with eggnog or mulled wine.