This Easy Old Fashioned Peaches and Cream dish is a summertime favorite! It brings together juicy peaches and rich cream for a simple yet yummy treat. Perfect for warm days!
I love how quick it is to make—just slice some peaches, mix in cream, and enjoy! It’s a sweet reminder of sunny days spent in the garden. Who needs a fancy dessert when you have this? 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches are best for their sweet flavor and juicy texture. If they’re out of season, canned peaches work well too—just ensure they’re in juice, not syrup, for a lighter taste. You can also try nectarines if you prefer.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This gives the dish its rich and fluffy texture. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or dairy-free whipped topping—but they may not whip up as thick. Coconut cream is a nice dairy-free alternative too!
Sugar: The amount of sugar can be adjusted based on the sweetness of your peaches. For a healthier touch, you can use honey or maple syrup instead. Remember that some sweeteners, like honey, will change the flavor slightly.
Vanilla Extract: This adds depth to the cream. If you don’t have vanilla, almond extract could be a nice alternative. Just use it sparingly as it can be quite strong.
How Do You Prepare Peaches for This Dish?
Peeling and slicing peaches can sometimes be tricky, but it’s really easy! Start by blanching them. This process softens the skin, making it easier to remove. Here’s how:
- Score a small “X” on the bottom of each peach.
- Place them in boiling water for about 30 seconds.
- Transfer the peaches to a bowl of ice water to cool them down quickly.
- Once cooled, the skins should peel off smoothly!
- Slice the peaches according to your preference—thin or thick slices work well.
Easy Old Fashioned Peaches and Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4-5 fresh ripe peaches (or canned peaches, drained)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to sweetness preference)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional for garnish)
- A pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 20 minutes to prepare. If you’d like to chill it for a bit to enhance the flavors, be sure to add an extra 30 minutes. Total time: around 50 minutes if chilling, otherwise just 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peaches:
If you’re using fresh peaches, start by peeling them. Score an “X” on the bottom of each peach and blanch in boiling water for about 30 seconds. Then, plunge them into ice water to cool. The skins should slip off easily! Slice the peaches thinly after peeling.
2. Sweeten the Cream:
In a large, chilled mixing bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract. This will give the cream a lovely sweetness and flavor.
3. Whip the Cream:
Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the cream mixture until it forms stiff peaks. The cream should be light and fluffy—this will create a delightful texture.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Take serving glasses or bowls and begin layering! Start with a layer of peach slices followed by a layer of whipped cream. You can gently fold some peach slices into the cream for a mixed look or keep them separate for a beautiful presentation.
5. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle lemon zest and a pinch of cinnamon on top for an extra flavor boost. It adds a lovely aroma and taste!
6. Chill (Optional):
If you have time, you can chill the assembled peaches and cream for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully together. If you’re ready to enjoy, feel free to serve immediately!
Enjoy this simple yet nostalgic dessert that celebrates the sweetness of peaches and the richness of cream—it’s perfect for any occasion! 🍑
FAQ for Easy Old Fashioned Peaches and Cream
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches, but make sure to thaw them completely first! Drain any excess liquid that accumulates during thawing to avoid sogginess. You might want to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the peaches.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cream may lose some fluffiness, but the flavors will still be delicious! Just give it a gentle stir before serving.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy whipping cream with a dairy-free option like coconut cream or a vegan whipped topping. Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of granulated sugar for sweetness!
What’s the Best Way to Serve Peaches and Cream?
This dish is best served chilled in individual cups or bowls. For a delightful twist, you can add a sprinkle of crushed cookies or granola on top for added crunch!
