Recipe: Baked Peaches with Nutty Filling

Recipe: Baked Peaches with Nutty Filling

Introduction

Baked peaches with a nutty filling are a delightful combination of juicy fruit, warm spices, and crunchy nuts. This recipe is perfect for summer evenings, family gatherings, or as an indulgent dessert after a hearty meal. The natural sweetness of peaches is enhanced by baking, and the nutty filling adds a rich texture and a burst of flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this step-by-step guide will help you create a dessert that’s both simple and impressive.

Ingredients

For the Peaches:

• 4 ripe but firm peaches
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

For the Nutty Filling:

• 1/2 cup finely chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings:

• Whipped cream
• Greek yogurt
• Vanilla ice cream
• Fresh mint leaves

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Peaches

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the peaches in a single layer.
2. Wash the peaches thoroughly, then cut them in half and remove the pits. If the pits are stubborn, use a small spoon to scoop them out carefully without breaking the peach halves.
3. Brush the cut sides of the peaches with melted butter and drizzle a small amount of honey or maple syrup over them. This will help them caramelize beautifully during baking.

Step 2: Preparing the Nutty Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped nuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
2. Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract until the mixture forms a crumbly, moist consistency. Adjust sweetness or spices to taste if desired.

Step 3: Filling the Peaches

1. Place the peach halves, cut side up, in the prepared baking dish.
2. Spoon a generous amount of the nutty filling into the hollow center of each peach. Press gently to ensure the filling stays in place.

Step 4: Baking the Peaches

1. Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peaches are tender and the filling is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serving

1. Remove the peaches from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
2. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a spoonful of Greek yogurt. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.

Tips and Tricks

• Choosing Peaches: Use ripe but firm peaches to ensure they hold their shape during baking. Overripe peaches may become too mushy.
• Customizing the Filling: Feel free to experiment with different nuts, such as hazelnuts or pistachios. You can also add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added texture and sweetness.
• Spices: Adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg to suit your taste. You can also add a pinch of ground ginger for a warm, spicy kick.
• Vegan Option: Replace butter with coconut oil and use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly dessert.

Variations

• Savory Twist: Add a small pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the nutty filling for a sweet and savory flavor profile.
• Chocolate Lovers: Sprinkle a few dark chocolate chips into the nutty filling before baking for a decadent treat.
• Oatmeal Filling: Mix in a tablespoon of rolled oats with the nuts for an additional layer of texture and a hearty flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Storing: Leftover baked peaches can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the peaches in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave them for 30-60 seconds until warm.

Nutritional Information (Per Peach Half)

• Calories: 180
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 8mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 2g

Additional Tips for Perfect Baked Peaches

1. Enhancing Flavor with Liqueur (Optional for Adults):

   • Before adding the nut filling, you can brush the peach halves with a small amount of almond extract or orange juice for a subtle boost in flavor.

2. For a Crispy Topping:

   • Sprinkle a teaspoon of crushed graham crackers or granola over the nutty filling just before baking. This will add an extra layer of crunch.

3. Using Other Fruits:

   • If peaches are not in season, you can substitute them with nectarines, plums, or even large apples. Adjust the baking time depending on the fruit's density.

4. Adding Citrus Zest:

   • For a bright and zesty kick, mix a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest into the nutty filling.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Mini Dessert Platters: Pair baked peaches with mini pastries or cookies for an elegant dessert platter.
• Breakfast Option: Serve baked peaches warm with a scoop of plain or vanilla Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey. This makes for a luxurious yet healthy breakfast.
• Gourmet Presentation: Place the peach halves on individual serving plates, drizzle lightly with caramel or chocolate sauce, and garnish with a sprig of mint.

Baked peaches with nutty filling are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dessert. The combination of caramelized fruit and crunchy filling makes it a treat you’ll want to enjoy all year round. Whether you serve them at a dinner party or indulge solo, this recipe is sure to impress!