Easy Peach Crisp

This Easy Peach Crisp uses juicy, in season peaches tossed with brown sugar and spices. It is topped with an easy oatmeal crisp topping and baked until bubbly. Perfect for serving on sultry summer nights with cold vanilla ice cream.

An effortless summer dessert

Fruit crisps have got to be one of my favorite desserts to make. They are so incredibly easy, and can be thrown together without much planning and presented after dinner to the delight of your guests. You can use whatever fruit is in season – apple crisp is a favorite for fall, strawberry rhubarb crisp is a must for spring.

But in mid-summer when you find yourself with juicy, ripe peaches, it’s time to make peach crisp. Do you prefer peach crisp or peach cobbler? Personally, I prefer crisps.

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What is the difference between peach crisp and peach cobbler?

There are differing opinions on both cobblers and crisps, but generally speaking, a cobbler is a fruit dessert with a biscuit like topping and a crisp has more of a streusel like topping. And what about a crumble? The line between a crisp and a crumble is fuzzy – but usually a crisp has oatmeal in the topping. Which is exactly what we have with my peach crisp recipe.

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Is it necessary to peel peaches for a peach crisp?

Let me tell you a secret – you don’t need to peel your peaches when making a peach crisp. Most of the recipes I’ve looked at have the added step of peeling the peaches first, so I wasn’t sure if it would work to leave the skins on. After testing this recipe I can tell you that it’s perfectly fine to leave the skin on the peaches. Crisps are supposed to be a dessert that is easy to throw together, and peeling the peaches just adds a step that, in my opinion, isn’t necessary.

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Why is my peach crisp runny?

There are two steps to making sure the peach crisp isn’t runny. One is adding corn starch to the filling, which helps thicken it up. The second is allowing the crisp to cool before digging in. This gives the filling time to set up. I know it’s hard to wait when it smells so delicious, but do your best to resist.

Can I use frozen or canned peaches to make this crisp?

I tested this recipe with fresh peaches, however you can use frozen peaches or canned peaches.

For frozen peaches: Thaw the peaches first, then drain away any excess liquid before proceeding with recipe.

For canned peaches: Be sure to use peaches canned in juice and not in syrup. Drain before using.

Can I make this peach crisp gluten free or vegan?

Yes, with a few simple swaps this peach crisp can be both gluten free and/or vegan. To make this crisp vegan, simply use a vegan butter such as Earth Balance Buttery Spread. To make it gluten free, use a cup for cup gluten free flour – I used this one and it worked great. Also be sure that you are using gluten free oats.

More fruit crisp recipes you will love

• Apple Crisp
• Cherry Almond Crisp
• Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp