Peaches and Cream

Delight in the natural sweetness of peaches with this easy peaches and cream recipe. Perfect for summer parties or a simple indulgence at home!

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of peaches and cream. The gentle sweetness of ripe, juicy peaches mingling with the rich, velvety cream, all with a hint of vanilla and a sprinkle of cinnamon, creates a combination that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re planning a summer gathering or looking for an easy dessert to enjoy on a quiet afternoon, this classic dish is sure to win you over.

Choosing the Perfect Peaches

For the best results, opt for ripe, juicy peaches. A ripe peach should feel heavy for its size and yield slightly to gentle pressure. The skin should be vibrant and without blemishes. The peak season for peaches is from June to September, making this the perfect summer dessert that showcases the fresh produce of the season.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Over-whipping the cream: your cream can turn buttery instead of fluffy and light if over-whipped. To avoid this, watch the cream closely as it whips and stop as soon as it forms soft peaks.

Peaches are too sweet: to balance the sweetness, add a squeeze of lemon juice to the peaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned peaches?

Yes, you can substitute fresh peaches with canned peaches. However, it may alter the taste slightly.

Can I use frozen peaches?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches if fresh ones aren’t available or out of season. Thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before using to avoid making the dish too watery. Note that the texture might be slightly softer compared to fresh peaches, but the taste should still be delicious. Remember to taste as you go since frozen fruits sometimes lose a bit of their sweetness and you might need to adjust the amount of sugar accordingly.

Is it necessary to peel the peaches?

Not at all. It’s a matter of personal preference. Some people like the texture the skin brings while others prefer their peaches peeled.

Can I make this dish with plant-based alternatives?

Yes, it is possible to substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut cream or another plant-based alternative. However, keep in mind that these alternatives may not whip as well as dairy cream, and this will affect the texture of the final dish. Plant-based creams also have distinct flavors that will alter the overall taste of the dessert.

Alternate Preparation Options

If you don’t have a hand mixer or a stand mixer, you can whip the cream using a whisk. It’ll take a bit more effort and time, but the result will be just as delicious.

Tips From the Chef

Always choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor.
When whipping cream, make sure your bowl and beaters are cold to help it whip up better.
Add the sugar gradually to the cream while whipping for the best texture.

Peaches and cream dessert in a small dish.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover peaches and cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Unfortunately, this dessert does not freeze well because of the cream, and it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you need to refresh it, you can briefly whisk the cream again to revive its fluffy texture.