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Baked Peaches with Brown Sugar

These Baked Peaches with Brown Sugar Taste Like Summer in a Bowl

There are certain scents and flavors that instantly transport you. For me, it’s the aroma of ripe peaches warmed by the sun. I can still remember lazy summer afternoons at my grandmother’s farmhouse, where we'd sit on the porch peeling fresh peaches for cobblers and pies. She'd always sneak a few slices onto a baking dish, sprinkle a bit of brown sugar on top, and pop them in the oven. The result? A dessert so simple, yet so luxurious, it never needed a fancy name. That’s the inspiration behind this blog post.

Writing this recipe took me back to those moments, but I’ve refined it just a bit to bring you something foolproof, flexible, and worthy of any dinner table—or weeknight indulgence. Whether you’re using farmstand-fresh fruit or the convenience of canned peaches, this is a dessert that’s all about comfort, ease, and that glorious burst of summer flavor.

Let’s dive into why baked peaches with brown sugar should be your new go-to fruit dessert—and how to make it perfectly every single time.

This post may contain affiliate links at no extra cost to you. Please read our full disclosure here to find out more.

These Baked Peaches with Brown Sugar Taste Like Summer in a Bowl

Why Baked Peaches Are the Ultimate Summer Dessert

There’s something magical about stone fruit sweets that doesn’t require much work. The peach, when ripe, is already a showstopper. But when it meets a warm oven, a pat of butter, and a sprinkle of brown sugar, it transforms into something even more indulgent.

Baking intensifies the peach's natural sweetness, while brown sugar caramelizes to create a rich, sticky syrup that clings to the soft fruit. The butter melts and seeps into every crevice, making each bite feel like velvet. Add a pinch of cinnamon and it’s practically soul food.

Whether you’re serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt, baked peaches with brown sugar are the kind of dessert that feels both rustic and elegant—perfect for summer entertaining or a cozy night in.

Fresh vs. Canned – What to Use and When

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Fresh peaches are ideal when they're in season, especially the freestone varieties that are easy to pit and slice. But let’s be real—sometimes life calls for shortcuts. That’s where canned peaches come in.

When to Use Fresh:

  • Peaches are in season (May to September in most places)
  • You want maximum flavor and texture
  • You love the ritual of peeling and slicing
  • When to Use Canned:

  • Peaches aren’t in season or are too expensive
  • You need a fast, low-prep dessert
  • You love the syrupy sweetness they provide
  • Pro tip: If using canned peaches, always opt for ones packed in juice or light syrup—avoid heavy syrup unless you want an ultra-sweet dish. And be sure to drain them well before baking.

    Ingredients You’ll Need

    Here’s exactly what you’ll need to make 4 servings of baked peaches with brown sugar:

    Ingredients:

  • 4 large fresh peaches (or 1 29-oz can of peach halves, drained)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • Pinch of sea salt (optional)
  • Optional toppings: vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, crushed pecans, or granola
  • This recipe is incredibly forgiving, so feel free to double it for a crowd or cut it in half for a cozy night in.

    How to Make Baked Peaches with Brown Sugar

    Step-by-Step Instructions:

    1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

    2. If using fresh peaches, slice in half and remove the pits. No need to peel unless you prefer it.

    3. Arrange the peach halves cut-side up in a baking dish.

    4. Dot each peach half with a piece of butter.

    5. Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the tops.

    6. Add a splash of vanilla extract over the entire dish if using.

    7. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until peaches are tender and syrupy.

    8. For a deeper caramelized finish, switch your oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes.

    9. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

    Chef’s Tips for Flavor and Texture

  • Sea salt enhances the sweetness and gives dimension.
  • Add a splash of bourbon or dark rum before baking for an adults-only version.
  • If you like a little crunch, top with crushed nuts or granola after baking.
  • Want a creamy finish? Serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped mascarpone, or Greek yogurt.
  • Amazon Product Recommendations for Perfect Baked Peaches

    To make your life easier (and your kitchen prettier), here are three tools I personally use and love for this recipe. All are available on Amazon and worth every penny.

    1. Staub Ceramic Baking Dish Set

    These baking dishes are not only stunning enough to go from oven to table, but they also bake evenly, clean easily, and last forever. The smaller sizes are perfect for individual servings of baked peaches with brown sugar, while the larger dish is great for doubling the recipe.

    Shop the Staub Baking Dishes on Amazon

    Elevate your bakeware game and make serving easy and stylish—click to add to your kitchen now.

    2. OXO Good Grips Brown Sugar Keeper

    Tired of rock-hard brown sugar? This little container is a game-changer. It includes a terra cotta disk that keeps your sugar soft and scoopable—perfect for spontaneous desserts like this.

    Grab the OXO Brown Sugar Keeper on Amazon

    Never battle clumpy sugar again—this small tool makes a big difference!

    More Fruit Sweets to Try This Summer

    If you love this recipe, you’ll definitely want to check out some of my other fruit-based desserts that celebrate the best of the season:

  • Grilled Peaches with Honey and Mascarpone
  • Peach Crisp with Oat Crumble Topping
  • Peach Galette with Almond Cream
  • Mixed Berry Cobbler with Biscuit Topping
  • Each of these recipes is designed to be accessible and full of flavor—just like this one.

    Final Thoughts: A Taste of Summer, Anytime

    Whether you’re basking in 90-degree heat or watching rain hit your windows, these baked peaches with brown sugar deliver the cozy comfort of summer in every bite. What I love most about this dish is that it doesn't try too hard. It's a reminder that some of the best things in life—like ripe fruit, warm ovens, and a spoonful of sugar—are also the simplest.

    I hope you’ll try this recipe and make it your own. Experiment with toppings, mix up the spices, or even serve it over pancakes or waffles for a brunch twist.

    And if you do make it, tag me—I’d love to see your version! This dish always reminds me that the heart of cooking is sharing, and it brings me so much joy to share this moment of sweetness with you.

    Until next time, happy baking—and may your kitchen always smell like sunshine.

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