Easy Air Fryer Peaches are a simple treat that brings out the natural sweetness of ripe peaches. Just slice them, sprinkle a little cinnamon, and let the air fryer do the magic!
These peaches turn soft and juicy in minutes, making them a wonderful dessert. I like to enjoy them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—what’s not to love about warm fruit and cold ice cream? 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines or plums can be a good substitute. They will give you a similar texture and sweetness!
Brown Sugar: This adds a lovely caramel flavor. If you don’t have brown sugar, white sugar with a touch of molasses or even coconut sugar works well too for a slightly different taste.
Cinnamon: A classic pairing with peaches! If you’re not a fan, try nutmeg or vanilla instead for a different flavor twist.
Butter: The melted butter helps to enhance the flavor and promote caramelization. You can substitute with coconut oil or a dairy-free spread if you prefer.
Honey: This is optional but adds a nice touch of sweetness. Maple syrup or agave syrup can also shine here if you’re looking for alternatives.
How Do I Get My Peaches Perfectly Caramelized in the Air Fryer?
Caramelizing peaches is what makes this dish special. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Preheat the air fryer properly at 350°F (180°C) for even cooking.
- Make sure to brush the peaches with melted butter fully; this helps them caramelize and keeps them moist.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket. It’s crucial for even cooking, so allow space for hot air to circulate.
- Check for tenderness at the 8-minute mark. You want them soft but still holding shape. Adjust the time accordingly.
How to Make Easy Air Fryer Peaches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving
- Chopped nuts or granola (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 8-10 minutes to cook in the air fryer. So, you can have delicious air-fried peaches ready in just under 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (180°C). This step ensures that the peaches will cook evenly and caramelize nicely.
2. Mix the Cinnamon Sugar:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. This mixture will add a sweet and spicy flavor to your peaches!
3. Prepare the Peaches:
Take your halved peaches and brush the cut side of each half with the melted butter. Then, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the tops of the peaches. This gives them a yummy crust while they cook!
4. Air Fry the Peaches:
Place the prepared peach halves in the air fryer basket with the cut side facing up. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket, so they cook evenly. You might need to do this in batches if your air fryer is small!
5. Cook Until Tender:
Air fry the peaches for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized. Check them around the 8-minute mark to see if they are to your liking!
6. Add Honey (Optional):
If you like, drizzle a little honey over the warm peaches after they are done cooking. This adds a delightful sweetness!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm air-fried peaches with scoops of vanilla ice cream on top. If you want, garnish with chopped nuts or granola for a little crunch. Enjoy your delicious dessert!
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them first. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or using the microwave on defrost mode. Keep in mind that frozen peaches may release more moisture, so you might want to reduce the cooking time by a minute or two and omit the butter for a healthier option.
Can I Substitute the Brown Sugar?
Yes! You can use white granulated sugar, coconut sugar, or even a sugar substitute like Stevia or erythritol if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, especially with coconut sugar.
What Should I Do if My Peaches Are Not Ripe Enough?
If your peaches aren’t quite ripe, you can place them in a paper bag at room temperature for a couple of days to help them ripen faster. Avoid placing them in the fridge before they have ripened, as this can slow down the ripening process.
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, you can pop them back in the air fryer for a couple of minutes at 350°F (180°C) or gently warm them in the microwave. They are delicious on their own or added to breakfast dishes!
