Old-Fashioned Peach Crisp

Late summer always brings a flood of ripe, juicy peaches into my kitchen—and honestly, nothing makes me happier. I grew up with the smell of cinnamon-spiced peaches bubbling away under a buttery oat topping, and every time I bake this Old-Fashioned Peach Crisp, it feels like stepping back into those carefree childhood summers. It’s rustic, it’s cozy, and it’s one of those desserts that proves the simplest recipes are often the best.

Unlike a pie, peach crisp doesn’t need fussy crust rolling. You just toss the peaches with a touch of sugar and spices, crumble on a buttery oat topping, and bake until golden and bubbly. The result? A warm dessert that begs for a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting into every bite.

This recipe is a keeper for family gatherings, potlucks, or those quiet nights when you just want comfort in a dish. Let’s dig in!

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

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Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Peach Crisp

Nostalgic Flavors with Minimal Effort

Fresh peaches, cinnamon, and a touch of brown sugar come together in a dish that’s as nostalgic as it is comforting. And the best part—it’s incredibly simple to make. No rolling pins, no fancy techniques, just good ingredients baked to perfection.

A Dessert That Works Year-Round

While fresh peaches are unbeatable in summer, this recipe works beautifully with frozen peaches too. That means you can enjoy the cozy warmth of peach crisp even in the middle of winter.

A Topping That Steals the Show

The oat topping is everything—golden, crisp, buttery, and just sweet enough to balance the tart juiciness of peaches. It’s the reason everyone always sneaks “just one more bite.”

(Love fruit desserts? You might also enjoy my Peach Cobbler Ice Cream or the classic Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler for another spin on peachy goodness.)

Ingredients Breakdown (and Substitutions)

Here’s what you’ll need to make this crisp sing:

For the Peach Filling

• Fresh Peaches: Ripe, juicy peaches make the best flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain them well.
• Granulated Sugar: Balances the natural tartness. You can adjust the sweetness depending on your peaches.
• All-Purpose Flour + Cornstarch: Thicken those peach juices into a luscious sauce.
• Ground Cinnamon: A must for that warm, spiced flavor.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.

For the Crisp Topping

• All-Purpose Flour: The base for structure.
• Light Brown Sugar: Adds caramel-like sweetness.
• Ground Cinnamon: Echoes the spice in the filling.
• Salted Butter (room temp): Creates that rich, crumbly texture.
• Old-Fashioned Oats: The star ingredient that gives the crisp its hearty crunch.

Substitutions:

• Swap in almond flour for a gluten-free version.
• Use coconut sugar for a less refined sweetener.
• Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for extra crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Dish

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly butter a 9×9-inch baking dish.

2. Make the Peach Filling

In a large bowl, toss sliced peaches with sugar, flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for a few minutes until syrupy.

3. Mix the Crisp Topping

In a separate bowl, stir together brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Work in the butter with a fork or your fingers until crumbly. Mix in oats until evenly combined.

4. Assemble

Spread peaches evenly in the dish. Sprinkle the oat topping over the top, covering completely.

5. Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes until the topping is golden and the filling bubbles around the edges.

6. Rest & Serve

Let cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This gives the filling time to set. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

(Want another cozy bake? Try my Pumpkin Bars or these Pumpkin Muffins for fall flavors!)

Variations, Storage & Serving Ideas

• Nutty Peach Crisp: Add pecans or almonds to the topping for crunch.
• Berry Twist: Swap half the peaches for blueberries or raspberries.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the filling.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the crisp, cover, and refrigerate up to 12 hours before baking.
• Storage: Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the topping crisp.

FAQs About Old-Fashioned Peach Crisp

Can I make peach crisp with canned peaches?

Yes, but drain them very well to avoid excess liquid. Fresh or frozen peaches deliver the best flavor and texture, though.

How do I keep the topping crunchy?

Bake until golden brown and avoid covering the crisp while storing. If reheating, use the oven instead of the microwave to re-crisp the topping.

Can I freeze peach crisp?

Yes! Bake, cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

What’s the best way to serve peach crisp?

Warm, with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Some even drizzle caramel sauce over the top for extra indulgence.

Sweet Endings & More Comfort Baking

Old-Fashioned Peach Crisp isn’t just dessert—it’s tradition, comfort, and pure joy in every spoonful. Whether you’re baking for a summer barbecue, a cozy fall evening, or just because peaches are calling your name, this recipe never disappoints.

For more baking inspiration, check out:

• Hot Chocolate Poke Cake
• Strawberry Shortcake Candy Apples
• Chocolate Orange Cake
• Gingerbread Truffles

And don’t forget to follow along on Pinterest and Facebook for more cozy desserts and seasonal treats!