These easy caramelized skillet peaches are a sweet treat! Juicy peaches cook in a buttery, caramel sauce, making them warm and delightful. Perfect for summer days!
Serving these peaches with a scoop of ice cream is a must in my book! The contrast is simply heavenly. You won’t want to share—trust me, they’re that good! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are the star here. Look for them to be slightly soft and fragrant. If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can use canned peaches (in juice, not syrup), but they won’t have the same texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best because it allows you to control the salt in the recipe. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil works great, adding a subtle flavor to the peaches!
Brown Sugar: The brown sugar caramelizes beautifully, but you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup for a lighter option. Remember, these substitutions may change the flavor a bit.
Cinnamon: This is optional. If you’re a cinnamon fan, feel free to add more! Cardamom is also a lovely alternative if you want to try something new.
How Do I Get the Perfect Caramelization on the Peaches?
Caramelization is all about patience and the right heat. Start by melting the butter over medium heat without letting it burn. Adding the brown sugar quickly creates a delicious caramel sauce.
- Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the peaches; this helps them caramelize instead of steam.
- Cook the peaches without moving them for the first few minutes. This helps them caramelize properly on one side.
- Remember to turn them gently to keep them whole. The goal is tender peaches coated in a rich, glossy sauce.
Try to serve immediately for the best taste, as they will lose their juiciness if left to sit. Enjoy!
Easy Caramelized Skillet Peaches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: a splash of lemon juice or a dash of rum for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick dessert that comes together in a flash, making it perfect for any last-minute sweet craving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Peaches:
Start by washing your peaches thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue. Carefully slice them into wedges, making sure to remove the pit. The riper the peaches, the sweeter your dish will be!
2. Melt the Butter:
Grab a large skillet and set it on medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt until it starts bubbling and foaming. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn—just want it nicely melted!
3. Create the Caramel:
Now, sprinkle the brown sugar into the melted butter. Stir it with a spatula until it dissolves and begins to bubble, about 1-2 minutes. This is what will give your peaches that rich caramel flavor!
4. Sauté the Peaches:
Gently add the peach wedges into the skillet, trying to arrange them in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes so they can caramelize on one side. The smell will be amazing!
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Using a spatula, gently flip the peaches over and cook for another 2-3 minutes. They should be tender and coated in that lovely caramel sauce. Try not to break them apart; we want them to stay whole!
6. Add Flavor Boosters:
Time to enhance those flavors! Stir in the vanilla extract, optional cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. If you want to get adventurous, this is when you can add a splash of lemon juice or rum for that extra kick!
7. Serve Your Delicious Peaches:
Take the skillet off the heat and serve your warm caramelized peaches right away. They are perfect on their own or generously topped with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even drizzled over pancakes for a real treat!
Enjoy your luscious caramelized skillet peaches! 🍑
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other fruits like nectarines, apples, or pears. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as firmer fruits may take a bit longer to soften.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative, and use maple syrup in place of brown sugar for a delicious vegan version!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them!
Can I Prepare the Peaches Ahead of Time?
While the caramelized peaches are best served immediately, you can prep the peaches earlier by slicing them and tossing them with a little lemon juice to prevent browning. Then, just caramelize them when you’re ready to serve!
