Caramelized Peaches in the Air Fryer: the quick and easy recipe you’ll love
Are you ready to bid farewell to these last days of summer in the sweetest way possible?
The air is getting cooler, the days are shortening, but the craving for a dessert that still tastes of sunshine is stronger than ever.
That’s why today I want to share with you my secret for a dessert that encapsulates all the fragrance and sweetness of the season that’s about to end: caramelized peaches in the air fryer.
If you’ve always thought that the air fryer was only for savory foods, get ready to reconsider.
This little kitchen ally turns into your perfect partner to create a healthy, delicious dessert in no time, without turning on the oven and overheating the house.
It’s the ideal way to enjoy the last peaches of the season, enhancing their natural sweetness with a light caramelization.
The result is a soft and juicy center, with a slightly crispy exterior and an enveloping aroma that will make you dream. A dessert that tastes of transition, perfect for still warm evenings and ideal to enjoy alone or with company.
Let’s get to work and prepare together this wonder that tastes of melancholy and happiness at the same time!
- Difficulty: Very easy
- Preparation time: 10 Minutes
- Portions: 2
- Cooking methods: Air frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Energy 35.40 (Kcal)
- Carbohydrates 7.26 (g) of which sugars 6.87 (g)
- Proteins 0.55 (g)
- Fat 0.42 (g) of which saturated 0.27 (g)of which unsaturated 0.15 (g)
- Fibers 1.69 (g)
- Sodium 0.09 (mg)
Indicative values for a portion of 100 g processed in an automated way starting from the nutritional information available on the CREA* and FoodData Central** databases. It is not food and / or nutritional advice.
* CREATES Food and Nutrition Research Center: https://www.crea.gov.it/alimenti-e-nutrizione https://www.alimentinutrizione.it ** U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central, 2019. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov
Ingredients for Caramelized Peaches in Air Fryer
- 2 peaches (yellow-fleshed, ripe but firm)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon butter (melted or coconut oil)
- ground cinnamon (1 pinch optional)
Tools
- Spoon
- Teaspoon
- Air Fryer
RECIPE Caramelized Peaches in Air Fryer
Wash the peaches well and dry them. Cut them in half and remove the pit. If the peaches are particularly large, you can also cut them into quarters.
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar with the melted butter and a pinch of cinnamon, if using. Brush the cut surface of each peach half evenly with this mixture.
Preheat the air fryer to 356°F (180°C) for 3-4 minutes. Place the peach halves in the basket, cut side up. Cook for 8-12 minutes, or until the sugar has melted and caramelized and the peaches are soft. Cooking time may vary depending on the size and ripeness of the peaches.
Notes on ingredients and substitutions
Sugar: Brown sugar is ideal for its caramel note, but you can also use granulated sugar. For a lighter version, try honey or maple syrup, which will give a shinier and less “crystallized” result.
Butter: Butter gives a rich flavor, but you can replace it with a teaspoon of coconut oil for a vegan version, or simply omit it, sprinkling only the sugar directly on the peaches.
Fruit: This recipe works beautifully with nectarines, apricots, or figs. Always choose ripe but firm fruit to avoid it falling apart during cooking.
Storage
Caramelized peaches are best consumed immediately, just out of the fryer. If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Keep in mind that they will lose their crispness, but will remain delicious. You can warm them slightly before serving.
Alternatives and variations
Spiced: Add a pinch of nutmeg, ground ginger, or cardamom to the sugar mix for an exotic touch.
Decadent: Serve with a handful of chopped nuts, almonds, or pistachios after cooking. A piece of dark chocolate inserted into the pit before cooking will give a melted and irresistible heart.
Light and protein-rich: Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of chia seeds.
Usage and pairings
Caramelized peaches are a fantastic dessert on their own, but they are also perfect as a base for many preparations. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a handful of crunchy oatmeal flakes. They are also great to accompany pancakes, waffles, French toast, or to enrich a simple bowl of yogurt for breakfast.
Origins and history of the recipe
Caramelizing fruit is an ancient culinary technique used to enhance its sweetness and texture. The tradition of cooking peaches, in particular, dates back centuries, when they were baked or grilled, often with a touch of sugar or honey. The air fryer is the modern version of this method, allowing for a result similar to baking or grilling, but in much less time and with less fat. It’s a demonstration of how culinary traditions can evolve thanks to technology to adapt to today’s lifestyles.
My tips for perfect peaches
Choose the right peach: Do not use overly ripe peaches, as they would fall apart. They must be ripe just right, sweet but still firm.
Do not overcrowd the basket: Arrange the peaches in a single layer, without them touching too much, to allow the air to circulate well and caramelize them evenly.
Check the cooking: The times are indicative, always observe the peaches after 8-10 minutes and remove them when they reach the desired softness and a nice golden color.
FAQ
Can I use canned peaches?
Yes, but I don’t recommend it. Canned peaches are already very soft and sweet, and cooking them in the air fryer may make them mushy. Ideally, use fresh and firm peaches.
How can I prevent the sugar from burning?
To prevent the sugar from burning, do not overdo the quantity and make sure it is well dissolved in the butter/oil before brushing. Keep the air fryer temperature at 356°F (180°C) and check the cooking.
Can I make this recipe in a traditional oven?
Absolutely! Preheat the oven to 392°F (200°C) in static mode. Place the peaches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are soft and caramelized.
