I share a simple yet irresistible dessert: sweet, juicy peaches caramelized in the air fryer and served warm alongside creamy ice cream.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I absolutely adore how effortlessly this recipe transforms fresh peaches into a dessert that feels gourmet. The caramelized sugar and cinnamon create a rich, warm sweetness, and the contrast with cold ice cream makes each bite delightful. It’s quick, minimal fuss, and delivers maximum flavor with just a handful of ingredients.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the peaches:
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Ripe peaches, halved and pitted
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Brown sugar
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Cinnamon
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Melted unsalted butter
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Pinch of salt
For serving:
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Vanilla ice cream (or your favorite flavor: caramel, chocolate, etc.)
directions
I first preheat the air fryer to 375 °F (190 °C) so the peaches caramelize evenly. Meanwhile, I mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. I brush the cut sides of the peach halves with melted butter, then sprinkle on the sugar mixture. I arrange the peaches cut‑side up in the basket—making sure they don’t overlap—and air fry for about 8–10 minutes until tender and caramelized. I remove them, let them sit for a moment, then serve warm with a scoop of ice cream.
Servings and timing
This dessert makes about 2 servings and takes around 15 minutes total—just 5 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook. I find that’s perfect for a quick treat.
Storage/reheating
I store any leftover caramelized peaches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When I want to enjoy them again, I reheat in the air fryer at 350 °F (175 °C) for a couple of minutes; they come out warm and beautifully caramelized once more.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?
Yes. I thaw them completely—either in the fridge overnight or briefly in the microwave—then pat them dry before air frying to avoid sogginess and ensure even caramelization.
2. What if I don’t have brown sugar—any substitute?
I often use granulated sugar mixed with a little molasses for that caramel depth, or coconut sugar for a slightly different flavor, using the same amount indicated in the recipe.
3. Can I swap cinnamon for something else?
Sure. I sometimes use a pinch of nutmeg or brush the peaches with a bit of vanilla extract instead; both add a lovely twist.
4. Can I make this dairy‑free?
Absolutely. I substitute melted butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative and still get that satisfying caramel sheen.
5. What other toppings go well with this?
I love them with whipped cream, yogurt, honey, or maple syrup. Adding nuts or granola gives every bite some welcome crunch.
6. Can this be served hot from the oven instead of the air fryer?
Definitely. I bake the peach halves at 375 °F (190 °C) for about 12–15 minutes, or until caramelized, if I don’t have an air fryer handy.
7. How ripe should the peaches be?
I look for peaches that feel slightly soft to the touch but still hold their shape—ripe enough for sweetness, not too mushy so they hold up during cooking.
8. Can I scale this up for more servings?
Yes—I double or triple the peaches and sugar mixture as needed. I avoid overcrowding by cooking in batches so each peach caramelizes properly.
9. Is there a vegan-friendly ice cream that pairs well?
Absolutely. I’ve used coconut milk or almond milk vanilla “nice cream,” and it complements the warm peaches beautifully.
10. Can I add something savory like cheese or herbs?
I have—and it’s surprisingly good! A sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese or a few fresh basil or mint leaves adds a sophisticated twist to the sweet dish.
Conclusion
I’m always delighted by how effortlessly this recipe elevates simple peaches into something indulgent and comforting. Whether served as a solo treat or with a scoop of ice cream, these air fryer peaches are sweet, warm, and satisfyingly easy. I hope you fall in love with this dessert as much as I do—and enjoy every juicy, caramelized bite.
Print
Air Fryer Peaches with Ice Cream
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These air fryer peaches are a quick, easy, and irresistible dessert. Juicy ripe peaches are caramelized to perfection with brown sugar and cinnamon, then served warm with vanilla ice cream for a sweet summer treat. Perfect for gluten-free and vegetarian diets.
Ingredients
For the Peaches:
2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon butter, melted
Pinch of salt
For Serving:
Vanilla ice cream
Instructions
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking.
Make the Sugar Mixture: In a bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
Prepare Peaches: Brush the cut side of each peach half with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly with the sugar mixture.
Air Fry: Place peaches cut side up in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook for 8–10 minutes until tender and caramelized.
Serve: Remove peaches from air fryer, let cool slightly, and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
Use nectarines if peaches aren’t available.
Substitute coconut oil for butter to make it dairy-free.
Add toppings like whipped cream, honey, maple syrup, or chopped nuts for extra flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
