Skillet Caramelized Peaches (with Whipped Cream)

Skillet caramelized peaches are a quick and delicious dessert topped off with homemade whipped cream that is sure to satisfy.

As much as I love to bake, and I do. Sometimes the heaviness of a tart crust or the density of a cake is just too much. This is especially so, on a hot summer day during peach season when the fresh peaches are abundant.

Opting for a lighter approach to dessert doesn’t have to be boring or unsatisfying. Skillet Caramelized Peaches offer a healthier, lighter option for dessert that is over the top in taste plus, I must say, they are as elegant as ever to serve.

Skillet Caramelized Peaches are…

• A healthier option
• Packed with delicious brown sugar richness and flavor
• Impressive and beautiful when presented
• The perfect way to satisfy a sweet tooth
• Simple to make
• An easy dessert in a pinch
• A completely satisfying dessert

Other Peach Recipes To Try

• Fresh Peach Tart
• Creamy Peach Chicken
• Easy Peach Iced Tea
• Old-Fashioned Peach Cobbler

Ingredients

Brown Sugar- I like to use dark brown sugar for this recipe but light will work too. Use what you have on hand.

Peaches- You can use white or yellow peaches for this recipe. If possible, get a freestone variety to remove the pit easier. But any sort of peaches will be delicious for this.

Butter- I use salted butter to help contrast the sweetest of brown sugar. If you use unsalted be sure to add a pinch of salt to the skillet to do the same.

Cream- The use of heavy whipping cream in this recipe is to make homemade whipped cream to garnish the caramelized peaches. This is completely optional but highly recommended! If you have an issue with dairy or want a vegan option here are a few whipped cream alternatives.

What You Will Need To Make Them

3 tbsp dark brown sugar

2 tbsp salted butter

2 large peaches

1 cup heavy cream

1 tsp white sugar

Tools

Cast Iron Skillet

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Directions

Cut peaches down the center halve and the remove pit. Take a sharp paring knife and score the peaches by slicing the surface at a diagonal just a few times across the top. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Melt butter first and then add the brown sugar to the skillet and mix well with a wooden spoon.

Place the halved peaches directly over the butter and sugar mixture flesh side down.

Cook for about 3 minutes on one side (see cooking notes). Spoon the brown sugar and butter mixture over the backside of the peaches as they cook. Flip the peaches over when ready and allow them to finish cooking for about 2 minutes. The peaches should be golden brown.

Place the glaze peaches onto a serving platter and pour the hot glaze over them. Serve with homemade whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.

For Homemade Whipped Cream

Place the heavy cream and tsp of sugar into a mixer bowl. Place the whip attachment on and beat the cream at a high speed until fluffy. Serve over peaches.

Cooking Notes

• Cook times will depend on the sizes of the peaches. For extra-large peach halves, you might need to cook for 1-2 minutes longer before flipping. You can the peaches to be cooked but not mushy.
• You can use white or yellow peaches. Freestone varieties offer the easiest way to remove the pit but any peach will do.
• I suggest using a cast iron skillet for even heat distribution.
• Scoring refers to surface slices made with a knife. Doing this will not only give lovely marks to the peaches but also help the brown sugar and butter distribute deeper into the surface.

FAQ

Can I slice the peaches instead of halves?

Yes, you can definitely slice them however keep in mind that this will affect the cook time with smaller pieces. Peach slices will be done much quicker about a minute or so should do before turning.

Can I use frozen peaches?

You can! Just thaw before using and be sure to strain off excess moisture then cook the recipe as directed.

How To Select The Best Peaches

Choosing the very best peaches for this recipe is key. Look for peaches that are bright in color (deep golden and red hues) and free from bruising, blemishes, or green areas. When touching the peach give it a firm but gentle squeeze it should give a little and not be overly firm. Look for signs of shriveled skin around the stem, this is a sign of an excellent peach. You can use any type of peach but I find the freestone varieties are easier to halve. 

If you try this dessert and love it, I would appreciate you coming back to give it 5 stars!

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