A Peach Crumble Recipe is the ultimate dessert for those who crave something sweet, cozy, and simple to make. It’s the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with the scent of bubbling peaches and toasted cinnamon—and it’s as perfect for summer get-togethers as it is for cozy winter evenings.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about peach crumble—from picking the perfect peaches and mastering the crumble topping to variations, storage tips, and serving ideas. Whether you’re baking for guests or making a weeknight treat, this recipe will become one of your favorites.
What Is a Peach Crumble Recipe?
At its core, a peach crumble recipe consists of sliced peaches baked beneath a crisp, buttery topping made from flour, sugar, and butter. Unlike pies, there’s no crust to fuss over—making this dessert both forgiving and delightfully rustic. The baked fruit becomes tender and syrupy, while the crumble topping delivers a crunchy, golden contrast.
Why Make This Peach Crumble Recipe at Home?
- It’s Foolproof: No need for pie dough or fancy techniques.
- It’s Flexible: Works with fresh, frozen, or canned peaches.
- It’s Fast: Prep and bake in under an hour.
- It’s Comforting: The combo of fruit and crispy topping never gets old.
Ingredients for the Best Peach Crumble Recipe
Fresh Peaches
Look for peaches that are ripe but firm. They should give slightly under gentle pressure and have a fragrant aroma. If using frozen, thaw and drain first. If you’re using canned peaches, be sure to drain them well and gently pat them dry—this keeps your dish from turning out soggy.
Peach Filling Ingredients
- 6–8 fresh peaches (about 2 lbs), sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon flour (to thicken juices)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to brighten flavor)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Crumble Topping Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- Optional: ½ cup rolled oats or chopped nuts
How to Make the Perfect Peach Crumble Recipe
1. Prep the Peaches
- Peel (optional): Boil for 30 seconds, shock in ice water, then peel.
- Slice: Cut peaches into thin wedges or chunks.
- Toss: Combine with sugar, lemon juice, flour, and cinnamon.
2. Make the Crumble Topping
- Mix flour, sugars, and oats/nuts (if using).
- Add cold butter and cut it into the dry ingredients with a pastry cutter or your hands.
- Stop when mixture forms pea-sized clumps.
3. Assemble and Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour peach filling into a greased 9×9 baking dish.
- Sprinkle crumble topping evenly over the peaches.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.
Pro Tip: Let the crumble cool for 10–15 minutes before serving so the juices set and the topping stays crisp.
Variations of the Peach Crumble Recipe
Peach and Berry Crumble
Mix 2 cups of berries (blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries) with the peaches. Adjust sugar depending on berry sweetness.
Peach Apple Crumble
Add 2 peeled, sliced apples for a firmer texture and more depth.
Spiced Peach Crumble
Use a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground ginger in the peach mixture for a warm, autumnal twist.
Boozy Peach Crumble
For a grown-up twist, mix in 2 tablespoons of bourbon or rum to the filling—it adds a warm, rich depth of flavor.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Peach Crumble Options
Gluten-Free Crumble
- Swap in a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make the recipe gluten-friendly without sacrificing texture.
- Ensure oats are labeled gluten-free.
Vegan Crumble
- Replace butter with vegan butter or solid coconut oil.
- For a more natural sweetener, try using maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of refined sugar—they add depth and a hint of extra flavor.
These adjustments retain the delicious texture and flavor of the original.
How to Serve Peach Crumble
- Warm with Ice Cream: Vanilla is classic, but honey or cinnamon ice cream also work beautifully.
- With Whipped Cream: Fresh whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast.
- Greek Yogurt: A healthier option that brings a tangy note to balance sweetness.
Pairing Suggestion: Serve with hot tea, a spiced chai latte, or cold lemonade in summer.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Peach Crumble
- Keep it fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the fridge—it’ll stay good for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze after cooling completely. Wrap in plastic and foil.
Reheating
- Oven (best method): 350°F for 15 minutes to restore crispness.
- Microwave (quick method): 30-second bursts, but the topping may soften.
How to Avoid Common Peach Crumble Mistakes
- Don’t skip thickener: Flour or cornstarch in the peach mixture keeps it from being watery.
- Don’t overbake: Watch for a bubbling filling and golden topping.
- Use cold butter: It’s essential for that crispy, crumbly texture.
- Don’t forget resting time: Letting it rest after baking helps it set and improves texture.
FAQs About Peach Crumble Recipe
Can I use canned peaches?
Yes, but drain them well and reduce added sugar if they’re packed in syrup.
Do I need to peel the peaches?
Not always. The skins soften while baking, but peeling gives a smoother filling.
Can I make the topping in advance?
Yes! Store it in the fridge and use within 48 hours for the best taste and freshness.
How do a crumble and a crisp differ from each other?
Crisps often contain oats or nuts in the topping, while crumbles typically don’t. But in modern baking, the terms are often used interchangeably.
Conclusion
This Peach Crumble Recipe is the ultimate blend of simplicity, comfort, and flavor. With its juicy fruit base and crisp, golden topping, it’s a dessert that never disappoints. Whether you stick to the classic or explore the many variations, this crumble is guaranteed to bring smiles to your table.
It’s an ideal make-ahead dessert, perfect for using up summer fruit, and endlessly adaptable to dietary needs. Give it a try today and experience why this humble dessert has stood the test of time.