Heart-shaped Peach Crisp

Name: Heart-shaped Peach Crisp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 ripe peaches, sliced; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes

I absolutely adore making this heart-shaped peach crisp, especially when summer ripens the juiciest peaches. Each bite is a delightful experience of tender fruit mingling with a crunchy oat topping that brings a homey warmth. The shape adds an extra layer of sweetness, perfect for sharing with someone I cherish or simply enjoying by myself. I love how simple it is to prepare, and the glorious aroma that fills my kitchen as it bakes is simply irresistible. It's truly a dessert that celebrates love and comfort.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-16T13:01:28.730Z

In my pursuit of the perfect dessert to celebrate summer, I stumbled upon the delightful heart-shaped peach crisp. I remember the first time I made it; the colors and scent of ripe peaches blended with spices created an unbeatable combination in my kitchen. Using fresh peaches instead of canned makes this dish exquisite, and I’m convinced that adding a hint of cinnamon elevates the flavor profile despite its simplicity.

As it baked, I couldn’t help but sneak a few bites from the edges of the baking dish. The contrast of the buttery crisp topping, coupled with the soft, sweet peaches, created a satisfying mouthful. It’s a recipe I love sharing with friends and family, bringing warmth and comfort to any gathering.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and juicy peach filling bursting with flavor.
Crunchy oat topping that perfectly complements the tender fruit.
Heart-shaped presentation makes it special for any occasion.

      

Peach Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right peaches is crucial for this heart-shaped peach crisp. Look for ripe, fragrant peaches that yield slightly to pressure. Avoid overly soft or bruised peaches, as they can turn mushy while baking. If peaches are not in season, you can substitute fresh peaches with frozen ones; just thaw them, drain excess liquid, and follow the preparation steps as usual.

When slicing the peaches, aim for uniform pieces about 1/2 inch thick to ensure even cooking. Tossing them with brown sugar and cinnamon not only enhances their natural sweetness but also creates a luscious syrup as they bake. This simple step elevates the flavor, making the filling aromatic and delicious.

Making the Crunchy Topping

The oat topping is what truly elevates this dessert with its contrasting texture to the soft peaches. For the best results, use old-fashioned rolled oats; they provide a hearty chewiness that instant oats simply can't match. Combining the oats with flour and sugar creates a lovely balance of sweetness and texture, while the melted butter ensures everything bakes into a golden crisp.

When mixing the topping, don't overmix; you want a crumbly but cohesive texture. If it seems too dry, a tablespoon of water can help bind it. For a twist, consider adding chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, to the mixture for added crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the peaches.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for this delightful peach crisp:

Ingredients

4 ripe peaches, sliced
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

These simple ingredients come together for a fantastic summer dessert!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the heart-shaped peach crisp:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the peach filling.

Prepare Peaches

In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced peaches with a bit of brown sugar and cinnamon. Stir to combine and set aside.

Make the Topping

In another bowl, mix rolled oats, brown sugar, flour, salt, and melted butter until combined. The mixture should be crumbly.

Assemble the Crisp

Spread the peach mixture in the bottom of a heart-shaped baking dish. Top with the oat mixture, spreading evenly.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the peaches are bubbly.

Cool and Serve

Let the crisp cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Enjoy every heartwarming bite of your freshly baked peach crisp!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding a sprinkle of nutmeg along with the cinnamon, or experiment with different fruits like berries or apples based on what's in season.

Storing and Serving Options

To store leftover peach crisp, let it cool completely then cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warm. This will revive the crisp texture and warm up that delicious peach filling beautifully.

Serving ideas can vary widely; consider pairing it with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flair. If you're feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes this dessert to the next level, melting into the warm peach crisp and creating a comforting contrast.

Variations and Creative Twists

This heart-shaped peach crisp is a versatile base for several fruity variations. Try substituting peaches with other fruits like blueberries or cherries, or mix different fruits together. Just be mindful of the fruit's sweetness level and adjust the brown sugar accordingly to ensure balance.

For a twist on flavor, consider adding spices such as nutmeg or ginger to the peach mixture. A splash of lemon or orange juice can also brighten the flavors and add a refreshing tang. Be adventurous; each variation offers a new experience while preserving the comfort of that classic peach crisp!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen peaches?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches, but make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using them.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the crisp and refrigerate it before baking. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before placing it in the oven.

→ What can I serve with this crisp?

Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream are fantastic accompaniments that balance the sweetness of the crisp.