The aroma of warm, baked peaches mixed with bourbon wafts through the air as this delightful Pecan Bourbon Peach Crisp emerges from the oven. This delicious dessert takes about an hour to prepare and bake, with sweet fruit and a buttery crumb topping that creates an irresistible combination. The bourbon adds a sophisticated touch, making every bite a taste of summer perfection.
This recipe is perfect for fruit lovers and those looking to impress at gatherings or family dinners. It’s ideal for warm-weather celebrations or cozy evenings. Plus, you can assemble it ahead of time and bake it right before serving for maximum freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The sweet, juicy peaches blend beautifully with the rich bourbon flavor.
- The crunchy pecan topping adds delightful texture and nutty notes.
- It’s an easy-to-make dessert that feels gourmet.
- Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Pecan Bourbon Peach Crisp.
For the Peach Filling
- 2.5 lb peaches, sliced into 1/2-inch thick wedges
- 3 tbsp bourbon (I use Maker’s Mark for its sweet oak notes)
- 2 tbsp orange juice
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1 tsp vanilla essence
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 3.5 tbsp cornstarch
For the Crisp Topping
- 1/2 cup butter, preferably Kerrygold unsalted for a richer crust
- 3/4 cup oats
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped into 1/4-inch pieces for even crunch
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cardamom
- 2/3 cup flour, I always use King Arthur all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
For Serving
- ice cream (vanilla bean is highly recommended to balance the bourbon)
Tip: Use ripe peaches for optimal sweetness.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Bourbon can be replaced with spiced rum.
- Brown sugar may be swapped for coconut sugar.
- Oats can be substituted with crushed graham crackers.
- Pecans can be replaced with walnuts or almonds.
How to Make It
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Filling
Mix the sliced peaches with bourbon, orange juice, orange zest, vanilla essence, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Stir until well combined, ensuring the peaches are evenly coated.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread the peach mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Make the Crisp Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the butter, oats, chopped pecans, sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, flour, and sea salt. Use your fingers or a fork to mix until crumbly and well combined.
Top the Peaches
Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the peach filling, ensuring it covers the entire surface for an even bake.
Bake the Crisp
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the peach mixture is bubbling.
How to Store It
Fridge: Best consumed within 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, store for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe dish.
Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Tips for Best Results
- Use ripe peaches for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Don’t skip the bourbon; it enhances the overall taste immensely.
- Allow the crisp to cool slightly before serving to set the filling.
- Serve warm for the best taste and texture contrast with ice cream.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a classic touch.
- Serve at summer gatherings or family barbecues for a sweet ending.
- Enjoy it as a cozy dessert during fall with its warm flavors.
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