Heart-shaped Peach Crisp

Name: Heart-shaped Peach Crisp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Everyday Dessert Recipes

I absolutely adore making this Heart-shaped Peach Crisp, especially during the summer when peaches are at their sweetest. The aroma of baked peaches mixed with cinnamon fills my kitchen and reminds me of cozy family gatherings. This recipe is not only visually stunning with its heart shape, but the combination of buttery oats and fresh fruit creates a delightful crunch that's simply irresistible. It’s perfect as a dessert for special occasions or a weekend treat with a scoop of ice cream on top.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-16T13:54:28.019Z

When I first tried making a fruit crisp in a heart shape, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet impressive it turned out to be. Using ripe, juicy peaches makes all the difference in flavor, and I always opt for a mix of ripe and slightly firm peaches for the best texture. The sweet, crumbly topping complements the sweetness of the fruit, elevating this dish to something truly special.

One tip I've learned is to let the peach filling sit with sugar for a few minutes before baking. This helps release some of the juices, which makes the crisp even more flavorful. Topped off with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this dessert is sure to bring smiles all around.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet, juicy peaches create a refreshing contrast
Crispy oat topping adds texture and crunch
Perfectly sized for sharing with loved ones

      

The Importance of Peach Selection

Choosing the right peaches is crucial for this Heart-shaped Peach Crisp. Look for peaches that are ripe but still firm, avoiding overly soft or bruised fruits. They should yield slightly to pressure when gently squeezed and have a sweet, fragrant aroma. If you can’t find fresh peaches, frozen ones can work in a pinch, but make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid. This ensures your crisp won't end up soggy.

The combination of sweet and tart peaches elevates the dish. You can experiment with different peach varieties, such as Freestone or Clingstone. Freestone peaches are easier to slice and provide a nice balance of sweetness. I find that using a mix of white and yellow peaches adds depth to the flavor profile, creating a vibrant and colorful dessert.

Mastering the Crisp Topping

Getting the crisp topping just right is essential for that perfect texture contrast. Ensure that your butter is melted but not too hot, or it may cook the oats prematurely. When combining the ingredients, use your hands to mix them lightly. This helps to create those delightful clusters that will crisp up beautifully in the oven. If you find the mixture is too dry, a tablespoon of cold water can help bind it without making it soggy.

Feel free to add spices or nuts to the topping for extra flavor and crunch. A pinch of nutmeg or chopped pecans can enhance the dessert, making it even more special. Just remember to keep the proportions balanced so that the topping doesn’t overwhelm the peach filling. For an added layer of richness, consider incorporating a splash of almond extract to complement the peaches.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Heart-shaped Peach Crisp:

For the Peach Filling

4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Crisp Topping

1 cup rolled oats
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Heart-shaped Peach Crisp:

Prepare the Peach Filling

In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Stir everything together gently and let it sit for about 10 minutes.

Make the Crisp Topping

In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, salt, and vanilla extract until crumbly. You should have a mixture that clumps together slightly.

Assemble the Crisp

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a heart-shaped baking dish, then spread the peach mixture evenly in the bottom. Top with the oat mixture, covering the peaches well.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the peaches are bubbly.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm with whipped cream or ice cream on top!

Enjoy your delicious Heart-shaped Peach Crisp!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can add a dash of nutmeg to the peach filling for added warmth and spice. Serving with ice cream will contrast the warm crisp perfectly!

Make-Ahead Tips

This Heart-shaped Peach Crisp can be prepped a day ahead for convenience. Simply assemble the peach filling and topping, but store them separately in the refrigerator. On the day of serving, spread the peach mixture in your baking dish and top it with the crisp. This prevents the topping from becoming soggy and maintains that delightful crunch when baked fresh.

If you have leftovers, you can store the Peach Crisp tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. It reheats beautifully in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes, restoring its crispy topping. You can also microwave a serving for a quick treat—just a minute or so will do, but it may soften the crisp a bit.

Serving Suggestions

For a truly indulgent dessert, serve your Peach Crisp warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The contrast of the warm, gooey peaches and cold toppings creates a blissful experience. Consider adding a sprinkle of crushed cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for an extra touch of sweetness.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing the crisp with a refreshing scoop of peach or ginger sorbet. This vibrant combination not only complements the flavors but adds a delightful textural element that transforms your dessert into a more sophisticated treat. It also makes for a lovely presentation at dinner parties or special gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen peaches instead?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture.

→ How long can the peach crisp be stored?

It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and topping separately and assemble it when you're ready to bake.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute for a vegan option.