Easy air fryer peaches are a sweet treat that warms the heart! Just slice peaches in half, sprinkle some brown sugar, and let the air fryer do the magic.
These juicy bites are perfect for dessert or a snack, and they pair great with ice cream. I mean, who doesn’t love warm peaches and cold ice cream? 🍑😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ripe Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are key to this recipe. Look for ones that yield slightly to pressure. If peaches aren’t in season, consider using nectarines or even canned peaches (drained) for a quick alternative.
Brown Sugar: This adds a deep sweetness and a lovely caramel flavor. If you’re out, regular granulated sugar works, but you might miss that rich flavor. Light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably based on what you have on hand.
Cinnamon: It brings warmth to the dish. If you’re looking for a change, try nutmeg or a pinch of allspice for a unique twist!
Unsalted Butter: Always use unsalted in desserts for better control of flavors. For a dairy-free option, coconut oil or vegan butter are great substitutes.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Peaches for Air Frying?
Preparing peaches properly enhances their flavor during cooking. Start by halving and pitting your peaches with a sharp knife. Make sure to get rid of the pit, as it can be hard to remove if you don’t use enough force!
- Brush the cut sides with melted butter; this helps the sugar stick and caramelizes nicely.
- Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar-cinnamon mix on top to maximize flavor with each bite.
- Arrange the peach halves cut side up in the air fryer. This helps them cook evenly and caramelize perfectly.
After cooking for 8-10 minutes, keep an eye on them! Check for that soft, caramelized look, and remember to let them cool a bit before serving.
Easy Air Fryer Peaches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
- Honey or maple syrup, for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take you about 15 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 5 minutes prepping the peaches and another 8-10 minutes cooking them in the air fryer. Enjoy a simple and sweet treat in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your peaches will cook evenly and will caramelize beautifully.
2. Prepare the Sugar Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together until well combined. This mixture will give your peaches a lovely sweet flavor and a hint of spice!
3. Brush the Peaches:
Take your peach halves and gently brush the cut side with melted butter. This helps the sugar mixture stick and adds great flavor. Next, sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the cut sides of the peaches.
4. Air Fry the Peaches:
Place the peach halves in the air fryer basket with the cut side facing up, making sure they are in a single layer. Cook them in the air fryer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the peaches are soft and caramelized around the edges.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they are done, carefully remove the peaches from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and drizzle with honey or maple syrup if you like. Enjoy your delicious air-fried peach treat!
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Peaches Instead?
Yes, you can use canned or frozen peaches, but be sure to adjust the cooking time! Drain canned peaches first, and if using frozen, thaw them completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture. Cook for about 6-8 minutes in the air fryer, as they may soften faster than fresh peaches.
What if I Don’t Have Brown Sugar?
No problem! You can substitute brown sugar with granulated sugar mixed with a little molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of sugar) for a similar flavor. Alternatively, coconut sugar or a sugar-free sweetener will work as well, just adjust based on sweetness preferences!
How to Store Leftover Air Fryer Peaches?
Store any leftover peaches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back into the air fryer for a couple of minutes at 350°F, or warm them in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Add Other Toppings or Ingredients?
Absolutely! You can experiment by adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch, or sprinkle some shredded coconut for a tropical twist. A dash of nutmeg or cardamom can also enhance the flavor! Feel free to get creative!