If you’re searching for a fresh, feel-good treat that’s as comforting as it is effortless, you’ve met your match with Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches. Sweet, juicy peaches get a cozy upgrade with a warm cinnamon-brown sugar drizzle and a quick bake in the oven, transforming into a dessert that tastes like the essence of summer itself. This recipe is all about letting those golden peaches shine, while a handful of pantry staples turn them into a dessert that looks gourmet but feels like home. Whether served straight from the oven with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or enjoyed all on its own, Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches capture the balance of effortless elegance and pure flavor everyone craves.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches is in its simplicity: each ingredient brings something unique, from the natural sweetness of ripe peaches to the rich comfort of brown sugar and cinnamon. Together, these components create a dessert that’s golden, fragrant, and utterly irresistible.
- Ripe Peaches: The star of the show—choose ripe but still firm peaches for the best texture and flavor.
- Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Adds richness and helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture caramelize beautifully on the peaches.
- Brown Sugar (2 tablespoons): Lends a deep, molasses sweetness that pairs beautifully with the fruit.
- Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Infuses the peaches with a warm, spiced fragrance that makes every bite feel cozy.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances both the sweetness and aroma for a more rounded flavor.
- Pinch of Salt: Just a little pinch heightens all the other flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Optional Whipped Cream or Vanilla Ice Cream: For serving—these cool, creamy touches take the dessert over the top!
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray—just enough so nothing sticks, which will make cleanup a breeze and help those peaches caramelize instead of burn.
Step 2: Prepare the Peaches
Halve your peaches and gently twist each half to remove the pit. Arrange the peach halves cut side up in the prepared baking dish, giving them a little breathing room so they roast evenly and the flavors can shine through.
Step 3: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This aromatic mixture is what gives Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches their irresistible glaze—every spoonful will coat the fruit with sweet, spicy, buttery flavor.
Step 4: Drizzle and Coat the Peaches
Spoon or brush the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the cut sides of the peaches, making sure a little bit trickles into their natural hollows for maximum flavor. Don’t worry if it runs down the sides; that’s what makes the finished dessert so deliciously sticky and caramelized.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the peaches in the oven and let them bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they look golden, a little bubbly at the edges, and the fruit is tender when pierced with a fork. The kitchen will fill with the most amazing aroma as the Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches caramelize.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, serve your Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches warm—ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream. Every bite combines gooey caramel, spiced sugar, and juicy fruit—a match made in dessert heaven!
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches
Garnishes
Elevate each serving of Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or almonds for crunch, a dusting of extra cinnamon, or even a sprig of fresh mint. The finishing touch is up to you and makes every plate look special.
Side Dishes
Pair your warm peaches with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of whipped cream—both classics for a reason! For something a little different, Greek yogurt offers a tangy contrast, or spoon the baked peaches over oatmeal for a decadent breakfast twist.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches into a showstopper by layering them in mini parfait glasses with whipped cream and crushed cookies, tucking them into crepes, or serving them atop a shortcake biscuit for a delightful fusion of textures.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches, let them cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and make a delicious topping for yogurt or breakfast oats later on.
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches for up to two months. Arrange cooled peaches in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze quickly, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply place your baked peaches in a microwave-safe bowl and warm in 20-second intervals until heated through, or pop them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. Add your favorite toppings just before serving to keep flavors bright and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use nectarines instead of peaches?
Absolutely! Nectarines have a similar sweetness and texture, making them an excellent swap in this recipe. Just follow the same instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches, and you’ll love the subtly different flavor.
Should peaches be peeled before baking?
No peeling needed—the skin helps the peaches hold their shape and adds a lovely color and texture. It softens up perfectly in the oven, mingling beautifully with the sugary topping.
Can I make Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches on the grill?
Definitely! Halve and pit the peaches, then brush with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Grill cut side down over medium heat for a smoky twist that brings out the fruit’s natural sweetness, just watch closely to prevent burning.
Are Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t use any flour or wheat-based products—just make sure any toppings you add are also gluten-free if needed.
What can I add for extra crunch or flavor?
A handful of chopped nuts like pecans or almonds sprinkled over the peaches before baking adds delightful crunch. You can also try a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, or even a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches are truly a celebration of everythingthat’s wonderful about ripe summer fruit and simple, heartfelt cooking. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert or a sweet way to enjoy peaches, give this recipe a try. You might just discover that these warm, spiced peaches become a new favorite at your table!
PrintCinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches Recipe
Enjoy the delightful and simple pleasure of Cinnamon Sugar Baked Peaches. Tender, caramelized peaches baked with a sweet cinnamon sugar glaze, perfect for a quick and easy dessert.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 halves (4 servings) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Ingredients
Peaches:
- 4 ripe peaches halved and pitted
Cinnamon Sugar Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional for Serving:
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare Peaches: Place peach halves cut side up in the dish.
- Make Cinnamon Sugar Glaze: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until combined.
- Coat Peaches: Brush or spoon the glaze over the peach halves, making sure some drizzles into the centers.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until peaches are tender and caramelized.
- Serve: Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Notes
- Use nectarines as a substitute for peaches.
- For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the peaches before baking.
- Grill on medium heat for a smoky flavor instead of baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 halves
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 25 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg