Peaches, with their juicy sweetness and vibrant color, make the perfect ingredient for a variety of delicious dishes. Whether you’re looking to whip up a refreshing summer smoothie, a savory salad, or a mouth-watering dessert, peaches can add a delightful twist to any recipe.
You’ll discover twenty-two of the best peach recipes that will elevate your meals and impress your family and friends. From breakfast to dinner and everything in between, these recipes showcase the versatility and flavor of this beloved summer fruit. Get ready to enjoy peaches in new and exciting ways!
1) Peach Cobbler
Peach Cobbler is a classic dessert that brings together juicy peaches and a rich, buttery crust.
To start, preheat your oven to around 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven heats up, prepare your peaches. Fresh or canned peaches both work well. If using fresh, make sure to peel and slice them.
Next, melt butter in a baking dish. This recipe typically uses a 9×13 inch dish. The melted butter forms a delicious base for the cobbler.
In a bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Slowly stir in milk until the batter is smooth. Pour this batter over the melted butter without stirring.
Prepare the peach mixture by tossing the sliced peaches in sugar, lemon juice, and a bit of cornstarch. This helps thicken the filling as it bakes. You can add cinnamon or nutmeg if you like extra flavor.
Spoon the peach mixture over the batter. As the cobbler bakes, the batter will rise up around the peaches, forming a golden crust. Bake until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the crust comes out clean.
Serve warm, preferably with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s a simple yet irresistible dessert perfect for any occasion.
2) Peach Bellini
A Peach Bellini is a refreshing drink that combines peach puree with sparkling wine. It has a sweet, fruity flavor and a smooth texture, making it a favorite for brunches or summer parties.
To make a Peach Bellini, you start by blending fresh or frozen peaches into a smooth puree. You may want to add a bit of lemon juice or honey to enhance the flavor.
Next, pour the peach puree into a glass, filling it about one-third full. Then, top it off with chilled prosecco or champagne. Stir gently to mix the ingredients.
Garnish with a peach slice or a fresh raspberry if you like. This adds a nice touch and makes the drink look even more appealing.
A Peach Bellini is easy to make and perfect for any occasion where you want a light and tasty drink.
3) Grilled Peaches with Honey
Grilled peaches with honey is a delightful summer treat. The grilling process brings out the natural sweetness in the peaches.
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. Slice the peaches in half and remove the pits. Brush the cut sides with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Place the peach halves cut-side down on the grill. Let them cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until you see grill marks forming.
Once you see the grill marks, flip the peaches over and grill the skin side for another 2-3 minutes. The peaches should be soft but not mushy.
Remove the peaches from the grill and drizzle them with honey. Serve them warm. You can pair them with vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Grilled peaches with honey are perfect for barbecues or as a simple dessert.
4) Peach Salsa
Peach salsa is a fresh and vibrant dish that brings summer flavors to your table. Start by chopping ripe, juicy peaches into small pieces. Combine them with diced tomatoes, red onions, and bell peppers.
Add a bit of jalapeño for some heat. You can also include some finely chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. This will give the salsa a bright and zesty flavor.
For a twist, mix in some pineapple chunks or strawberries. These fruits add sweetness and a unique taste. You can also add black beans for extra texture and heartiness.
Once everything is mixed together, let the salsa sit in the refrigerator for an hour. This allows the flavors to meld. Serve it chilled with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.
Feel free to adjust the seasonings. If you like it spicier, add more jalapeños or a dash of chili powder. Enjoy making and sharing this refreshing peach salsa!
5) Peach Pie
Peach pie is a classic summer dessert you don’t want to miss. It starts with fresh, ripe peaches. Blanch them in hot water for a minute to easily remove the skins. Slice the peaches and mix them with sugar, lemon juice, and a touch of cinnamon.
Prepare your crust. You can use a store-bought one or make your own. Roll out the dough and place it in the pie dish. Fill it with the peach mixture. Dot the filling with butter before covering it with the top crust.
Crimp the edges and brush the top with an egg wash. Sprinkle with sugar for extra crunch. Bake the pie in a preheated oven. Start at a high temperature, then lower it to ensure the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
Serve your peach pie warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The combination of sweet, juicy peaches and flaky crust will make this pie a favorite in your home.
6) Peach Ice Cream
Peach ice cream is a delightful treat that’s perfect for summer. It’s creamy, sweet, and packed with the juicy flavor of fresh peaches. You can make it easily at home with a few simple ingredients and an ice cream maker.
Start by gathering fresh, ripe peaches. You’ll want to peel and chop them before pureeing with sugar and half-and-half. This forms the base of your ice cream. You then mix this peach puree with sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla.
Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn until it’s thick and creamy. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can use a freezer-safe container and stir the mixture every 30 minutes until it reaches the right consistency.
For an even more intense peach flavor, you can add bits of chopped peach during the last few minutes of churning. This gives the ice cream a nice texture and bursts of fruitiness.
Don’t forget to let the ice cream harden in the freezer for a few hours before serving. This ensures it scoops out perfectly and holds its shape. Enjoy your homemade peach ice cream on a hot day for a refreshing, fruity treat.
7) Peach Tart
A peach tart is a delightful way to showcase fresh peaches. You’ll need peaches, butter, brown sugar, and flour. These simple ingredients combine to create a delicious dessert.
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Prepare the tart dough by mixing flour, salt, and sugar. Add oils, milk, and almond extract to form a dough.
For the filling, slice the peaches and remove the pits. Mix them with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. This will give your tart a sweet and tangy flavor.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface. Place the peach mixture in the center, leaving a border around the edges. Fold the edges over the peaches to create a rustic look.
Dot the peaches with cold butter. Bake the tart for about 35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Brush the peaches with a jam glaze right after baking for a lovely shine. This tart is perfect served warm or at room temperature.
Making a peach tart is simple and rewarding. It’s a great way to enjoy the season’s finest peaches.
8) Peach Jam
Peach jam is a delightful way to enjoy the sweet, juicy taste of peaches all year long. Making peach jam at home is simple and rewarding.
Start by crushing or mashing ripe peaches. This releases their natural juices and creates the base for your jam.
Add lemon juice and pectin to the mashed peaches. Pectin helps the jam set and gives it a nice texture.
Place the mixture on high heat. Stir constantly and bring it to a full rolling boil. You want bubbles covering the entire surface.
Add sugar and spices. Stir the mixture and bring it back to a rolling boil. Let it boil hard for one minute. Stir constantly to avoid burning.
Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars. Seal them well and let them cool. Store the jars in a cool, dark place.
Enjoy the sweet taste of summer anytime by spreading peach jam on toast, biscuits, or using it in desserts.
9) Peach Crisp
Peach Crisp is a delightful dessert that’s easy to make and loved by many. You’ll start by preheating your oven to the right temperature, usually around 350°F (177°C) or 375°F (190°C), depending on the recipe you’re following.
Next, lightly grease a baking dish. Types of dishes you can use include deep-dish pie pans, square pans, or even cast iron skillets.
In a large bowl, gently mix your peaches with sugar. Let this mixture sit for a while to allow the peaches to release their juices.
For the topping, combine ingredients like flour, oats, sugars, and spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. You’ll need to cut in cold butter until the mixture has a crumbly texture.
Once the filling is ready, spread it evenly in your prepared dish. Sprinkle the topping mixture over the peaches.
Bake the Peach Crisp in the preheated oven until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. This usually takes around 40 minutes.
Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Peach Crisp warm, possibly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s a comforting and tasty way to enjoy fresh or canned peaches.
10) Peach Smoothie
Peach smoothies are a delicious and refreshing way to start your day. To make a great peach smoothie, you’ll need a high-powered blender and simple ingredients. Start with frozen peach slices for a thick texture.
Add a ripe banana to sweeten your smoothie naturally. You can also use yogurt for creaminess. Vanilla Greek yogurt works well, but any variety you prefer will do.
For the liquid base, almond milk or any dairy-free milk, like coconut milk, can be used. This adds a light and smooth element to your drink. A splash of vanilla extract enhances the flavor even more.
If you like a bit of extra zing, add a dash of cinnamon or ginger. Both spices complement the peaches perfectly and give your smoothie a warm kick.
Once you have all your ingredients, blend them until smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add more almond milk slowly until you reach the desired consistency. Pour it into a glass and enjoy immediately for the best taste and texture.
11) Peach BBQ Sauce
Peach BBQ sauce is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. You’ll find it works great on grilled chicken, ribs, and even veggies.
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until they are soft and aromatic.
Add diced peaches, ketchup, brown sugar, and a bit of apple cider vinegar.
Then, mix in some smoked paprika and chili flakes for that extra kick.
Let the mixture simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once it thickens, cool it slightly and blend until smooth.
Store it in a jar and refrigerate. Use this versatile sauce for your summer barbecues and enjoy the unique flavor of peaches in every bite.
12) Peach Sorbet
Peach sorbet is a refreshing summer treat you can make with just a few ingredients. It’s a great way to use fresh peaches when they are in season.
Start by peeling and cutting your peaches into small chunks. Freeze the pieces on a baking tray for a few hours until they are firm. This will give your sorbet a smooth texture.
Next, blend the frozen peach chunks with some sugar and a bit of lemon juice in a food processor or high-speed blender. Keep blending until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
Pour the peach mixture into a freezer-safe container. Cover it well to prevent ice crystals from forming. Place the container in the freezer for about 30 minutes.
Check the sorbet, give it a good stir with a spoon or whisk, and then let it freeze again. Repeat this process a few times until your sorbet reaches the desired consistency.
Once ready, serve your peach sorbet in scoops. Enjoy this tasty and cool dessert on a hot day!
13) Peach Muffins
Peach muffins are a delicious way to enjoy the sweetness of fresh peaches. They make a great breakfast or snack option. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lining your muffin tin with baking cups or greasing it lightly.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine melted butter, milk, and egg. Mix these wet ingredients well using a whisk.
Fold in chopped peaches gently, making sure they are evenly distributed in the batter. You can use fresh or canned peaches, but fresh ones give a better texture and flavor.
Once your batter is ready, spoon it into the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on top before baking. This adds a bit of crunch and sweetness to the muffins, making them even more irresistible.
Enjoy your peach muffins warm or at room temperature. They store well in an airtight container for several days, so you can enjoy them throughout the week.
14) Peach Galette
A peach galette is a simple and rustic dessert that showcases fresh peaches.
Start by preparing your dough. You can make it from scratch using flour, sugar, salt, and cold butter. Pulse these ingredients in a food processor until they form pea-sized crumbs.
Roll the dough into a 12-inch circle on a floured sheet of parchment paper. Place it in the fridge to chill while you prepare the filling.
Slice fresh peaches and toss them with granulated sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Mix gently to coat the peach slices evenly.
Preheat your oven to 425˚F. Arrange the peaches in the center of the dough, leaving a 1 ½-inch border around the edges. Fold the edges of the dough over the peaches to form a crust.
Place the galette on a baking sheet and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the peaches are tender.
Let the galette cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy it warm, at room temperature, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
15) Peach Salad
Peach salad is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh peaches. You can mix them with a variety of greens like arugula, baby spinach, or lettuce. Peaches add a sweet and juicy element that pairs well with other ingredients.
For a simple peach salad, combine ripe peaches with baby spinach. Add some pecans for crunch and a poppyseed salad dressing for a sweet touch.
Another popular combination is peaches with arugula, grilled chicken, and a balsamic vinaigrette. This salad is not only delicious but also hearty enough to be a meal on its own.
You can also try a peach and avocado salad. The creaminess of the avocado complements the peaches, and a lemon dressing brings a bright flavor to the dish.
If you like cheese in your salads, peaches go well with goat cheese or feta. Top your salad with some walnuts or almonds for added texture.
Grilled peaches can be a great addition too. They add a smoky flavor that can elevate your salad. Simply grill halved peaches and toss them in with your favorite greens and a light dressing.
Peach salads are versatile. Feel free to experiment with different greens, nuts, and dressings to find your favorite combination.
16) Peach Biscuit Shortcake
Peach Biscuit Shortcake is a delicious summer dessert that’s simple to make. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. In a mixing bowl, combine Bisquick, milk, 3 tablespoons of sugar, and melted butter. Stir until a soft dough forms.
Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto an ungreased baking sheet, making about 6 biscuits. Sprinkle coarse sugar on top, if you like. Bake for around 12 to 15 minutes until the biscuits are golden.
While the biscuits cool, prepare the peaches. Peel, core, and slice the peaches. Toss them with a teaspoon of lemon juice and some sugar. Let them sit for a few minutes to release their juices.
Once the biscuits are cool, slice them in half. Place the bottom halves on plates and spoon the prepared peaches over them. Add the top halves of the biscuits and finish with a dollop of whipped cream.
Enjoy your Peach Biscuit Shortcake immediately. This dessert is perfect for a summertime treat and easy to make with fresh, juicy peaches.
17) Peach Chutney
Peach chutney is a versatile and tasty condiment that pairs well with a variety of dishes. It’s a great way to use fresh peaches when they are in season.
Start by peeling and chopping the peaches into small pieces. Combine them with sugar, vinegar, and spices in a large pot. Common spices include ginger, allspice, and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Make sure to stir it occasionally. The chutney thickens as it cooks, and you should cook it until it reaches your desired consistency.
This chutney tastes great with meats like ham, pork, or poultry. You can also use it as a spread for sandwiches or serve it with cheese. The sweet and tangy flavor is sure to enhance your meals.
18) Peach Lemonade
Peach lemonade is a refreshing summer drink that combines the sweetness of peaches with the tartness of lemons. It’s perfect for hot days and easy to make at home.
First, you’ll need fresh peaches, sugar, lemons, and water. Start by chopping the peaches and boiling them with water and sugar until the peaches are soft.
Mash the peaches to release their juices, then strain the mixture to remove the solids. You’ll be left with a flavorful peach syrup. Let it cool to enhance the peach flavor.
In a pitcher, mix lemon juice, cold water, and the peach syrup. Stir well and serve over ice. It’s a great way to enjoy fresh peaches while staying cool and hydrated.
19) Peach Scones
Peach scones are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of peaches with the buttery goodness of scones.
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix your dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Grate cold butter and incorporate it into the dry mixture with a fork or pastry blender.
Add fresh peach chunks to the mix for a fruity burst in every bite. Combine wet ingredients like eggs and milk, then mix with the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
Shape the dough into a round disk and cut it into wedges. Place these wedges on the baking sheet.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Let them cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
For a sweet finish, make a glaze with powdered sugar, vanilla, and a bit of milk. Drizzle the glaze over the scones once they’ve cooled down.
Enjoy your peach scones with a hot cup of tea or coffee!
20) Peach Pancakes
Peach pancakes are a delightful addition to any breakfast table. They bring the sweet and juicy flavor of peaches into fluffy, warm pancakes.
To start, gather your ingredients. You’ll need flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar for the dry mix. For the wet ingredients, use milk, eggs, and vanilla. Don’t forget the peaches, which you’ll chop into small pieces.
In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Gently fold in the chopped peaches. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the pancakes tough. Cook the pancakes on a hot, greased griddle until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook until golden brown.
Serve your peach pancakes warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream. For an added treat, top them with even more fresh peach slices. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.
21) Peach Upside-Down Cake
Peach upside-down cake is a classic dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe peaches with a buttery, caramelized topping.
To start, you’ll need fresh or canned peach slices. Arrange them in a single layer in a buttered cake pan.
Next, prepare your batter. Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in an egg and a splash of vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.
Pour the batter over the peach slices, spreading it evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool for about 5-10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a serving platter, letting the caramelized peaches shine on top.
22) Peach Bread Pudding
Peach Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines fresh, juicy peaches with soft, fluffy bread.
To start, you will need to cut your bread into small, 1-inch cubes. This helps the bread absorb the custard mixture better.
Mix eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Whisk until smooth.
Add diced peaches to the egg mixture. Use ripe peaches for the best flavor.
Combine the bread cubes with the peach-egg mixture. Allow it to sit for 30 minutes so the bread fully absorbs the liquid.
Butter a baking dish, usually 9×13 inches, and pour the mixture in. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top for extra flavor.
Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes. It’s ready when the top is golden and firm.
This dessert is perfect for summer gatherings and family dinners. Whether warm or cold, Peach Bread Pudding is sure to be a hit.
Peach Health Benefits
Peaches offer a variety of health benefits that make them a valuable part of a balanced diet. They are packed with essential nutrients and powerful antioxidants.
Nutritional Profile
Peaches are low in calories and high in important vitamins and minerals. A medium peach contains roughly 59 calories. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports your immune system. You also get vitamin A for eye health and potassium to help regulate blood pressure.
In addition to these, peaches provide dietary fiber. One medium peach gives you about 2 grams of fiber, aiding digestion and helping you feel full longer. Moreover, they contain small amounts of magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and some B vitamins. These nutrients contribute to overall health and wellness.
Antioxidant Properties
Peaches are rich in antioxidants, including vitamins A and C, which help protect your cells from damage. These antioxidants combat free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
The fruit also contains polyphenols and carotenoids, compounds known for their anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation in your body, these antioxidants support better health outcomes. Consuming peaches regularly can help maintain these benefits and improve your overall health.
Tips for Cooking with Peaches
When cooking with peaches, it’s essential to pick ripe, flavorful ones and prepare them correctly to get the best results. Here’s how to do just that:
Selecting the Best Peaches
To choose the best peaches, look for ones that yield slightly under gentle pressure. They should have a pleasant, fruity aroma. Avoid peaches with green spots, as these are not fully ripe.
Check for uniform color. Ripe peaches typically have a deep yellow or orange background, without green around the stem.
Lastly, don’t worry about small marks or blemishes. These won’t affect the taste or texture much. Focus more on the feel and smell of the peach.
Preparing and Storing Peaches
Before using peaches, wash them under cool running water to remove any dirt or pesticide residue.
To peel peaches easily, blanch them by placing them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transferring them to an ice bath. The skin should slide off effortlessly.
If you’re not using the peaches immediately, store them at room temperature until they ripen fully. Once ripe, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
For longer storage, you can freeze sliced peaches. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag.
Peach Pairing Ideas
Peaches pair wonderfully with both sweet and savory ingredients, adding a unique twist to your dishes. Here are ways to enhance your recipes with complementary flavors and serving suggestions.
Complementary Flavors
Peaches have a natural sweetness that makes them great with both savory and sweet items. Prosciutto and peaches create a delightful salty-sweet combo perfect for salads. Cheese varieties like goat cheese, brie, and gorgonzola bring out the richness of peaches. Herbs like basil and mint add freshness, making your dishes more aromatic.
Nuts such as almonds and pecans add crunch and depth to peach recipes. Spices like cinnamon and ginger can enhance the natural sweetness of peaches. Bold flavors like balsamic vinegar or honey also create a balanced taste when combined with peaches.
Serving Suggestions
For breakfast, try peaches in smoothies or as a topping for yogurt and granola. You can also bake them into muffins or scones. At lunch, peach caprese salads or sandwiches with peach, brie, and a drizzle of honey can be a tasty and light option.
Dinner ideas include grilling peaches for a sweet and smoky side dish, or stirring them into your summer salsa. Consider making a savory peach pizza with prosciutto, gorgonzola, and a balsamic glaze. For desserts, pair peaches with ice cream or make a classic peach cobbler.
Use these pairing suggestions to create delicious and varied meals with peaches, enhancing their flavor and giving your dishes a unique twist.