Peaches and Cream

Peaches and Cream is a classic dessert that combines the natural sweetness of fresh peaches with a creamy, indulgent topping. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick treat or a refreshing dessert for family and friends. The peaches are cooked in a cinnamon-kissed syrup and served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a splash of heavy cream.

Ingredients

• 4 small peaches or 3 large peaches
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon water (optional)
• ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 ⅓ cup vanilla ice cream

Instructions

• Cut the peaches into slices and place them in a small saucepan.
• Add sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and water (if using) to the peaches.
• Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
• Cover and simmer for 5 minutes or until the liquid becomes syrup-like.
• Spoon the cooked peaches into four serving bowls.
• Top each serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Drizzle with heavy whipping cream and serve immediately.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve immediately while the peaches are warm and the ice cream is soft for the best experience.
• Leftover peaches can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat gently over low heat before serving and add fresh ice cream.
• For a party, prepare the peaches in advance and assemble with ice cream just before serving to maintain texture.

Variations

• Boozy Peaches and Cream: Add 1 teaspoon of bourbon or rum to the syrup while simmering for an adult twist.
• Vanilla Yogurt Option: Replace heavy cream with vanilla yogurt for a lighter, tangy flavor.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds, pecans, or granola over the top for added texture.
• Caramel Drizzle: Add caramel sauce over the peaches and ice cream for a richer dessert.
• Spiced Delight: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon to enhance the warmth of the syrup.
• Frozen Peach Version: Use thawed frozen peaches if fresh ones are out of season.
• Ice Cream Alternatives: Try caramel, cinnamon, or honey-flavored ice cream for unique flavor combinations.
• Grilled Peaches and Cream: Halve the peaches and grill them for 2–3 minutes per side before cooking in the syrup. Grilling adds a smoky caramelized flavor that elevates the dessert.
• Peach and Berry Medley: Add fresh blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries to the peach syrup while simmering. This adds color, extra sweetness, and a hint of tartness for a fruity twist.
• Honey Cinnamon Peaches: Replace sugar with honey and sprinkle an extra pinch of cinnamon over the top. This creates a naturally sweet, slightly floral flavor profile.
• Ginger Peach Delight: Add ¼ teaspoon freshly grated ginger to the syrup while simmering. The ginger adds warmth and complexity, pairing beautifully with cinnamon.
• Almond Peach Cream: Add ½ teaspoon almond extract to the syrup and sprinkle sliced toasted almonds on top. This gives a nutty aroma and subtle crunch.
• Peach Shortcake Version: Serve the peaches and cream over sponge cake or shortcake biscuits instead of bowls. This turns the dessert into a more decadent treat.
• Peach and Coconut Cream: Substitute heavy cream with whipped coconut cream and top with toasted coconut flakes. This gives a tropical twist and is dairy-free.
• Spiced Rum Peaches: Simmer the peaches with a teaspoon of spiced rum for a warm, boozy dessert. Great for adult gatherings or dinner parties.
• Peach and Mascarpone Cream: Mix mascarpone cheese with a little sugar and vanilla, then dollop over the peaches instead of ice cream. The creaminess is rich and luxurious.
• Mini Peach Parfaits: Layer peaches, crushed cookies or granola, and cream/ice cream in small glasses for individual parfait servings. Perfect for presentation at parties.
• Peach Caramel Crunch: Drizzle caramel sauce over the peaches and sprinkle with crushed praline or toffee pieces for extra texture and sweetness.
• Cinnamon Roll Peaches: Serve the peaches on top of a warm, sliced cinnamon roll instead of a bowl. The cinnamon in the roll complements the peach syrup beautifully.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
   Yes, frozen peaches work well; just thaw slightly before cooking.
2. How do I prevent the syrup from becoming too thick?
   Add a little extra water while simmering if needed.
3. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
   Prepare the peaches in advance, but add ice cream just before serving.
4. Is this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet?
   Use coconut cream and dairy-free vanilla ice cream as substitutes.
5. How long can I store the cooked peaches?
   Up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
6. Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
   Yes, brown sugar adds a richer, caramel-like flavor.
7. Can I skip the cinnamon?
   Yes, but cinnamon enhances the natural sweetness of the peaches.
8. What type of ice cream works best?
   Classic vanilla works perfectly, though caramel or cinnamon ice cream also complements the flavors.
9. Can I serve this dessert cold?
   Yes, chill the peaches and serve with cold ice cream for a refreshing treat.
10. Can I double the recipe?
    Absolutely, just increase the saucepan size and adjust the cooking time slightly.

Peaches and Cream is a timeless dessert that is both simple to prepare and irresistibly delicious. The combination of sweet, tender peaches in a cinnamon-kissed syrup with creamy vanilla ice cream and a touch of heavy cream makes every bite comforting and indulgent. Whether served warm for a cozy treat or chilled for a refreshing summer dessert, this recipe is versatile and can be easily customized with the variations provided. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or special occasions, Peaches and Cream is a dessert that everyone will love and come back for again and again.

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