# Salted Caramel Peach Crisp: A Summertime Treat
With summer on the horizon, the temptation of ripe, juicy peaches is hard to resist. A fantastic method to honor this seasonal gem is through a Salted Caramel Peach Crisp, a recipe drawn from Deb Perelman of Smitten Kitchen. This dessert not only highlights the lusciousness of peaches but also enhances it with a decadent, homemade salted caramel sauce, resulting in a dessert that is both satisfying and luxurious.
## The Origin of the Recipe
The Salted Caramel Peach Crisp features a summertime variation on the traditional apple butterscotch crisp, from Perelman’s third book, *Smitten Kitchen Keepers*. This concept stemmed from a frequent annoyance with fruit crisp recipes: the toppings frequently char before the fruit has adequate time to bake. Perelman’s answer? Pre-cook the fruit in a delightful caramel sauce, enabling it to soak up rich flavors while ensuring the topping bakes flawlessly.
## The Allure of Salted Caramel
In this dish, the caramel sauce is prepared on the stovetop, utilizing salted butter to boost the flavor. Salted caramel is more than just sugary goodness; it brings a sophisticated richness that enhances the dish overall. The caramel appears in two applications: initially, to flavor the peaches, and afterwards, as a sumptuous drizzle atop the completed crisp. This dual application guarantees that every mouthful is a delightful amalgamation of tastes.
### Essential Ingredients
1. **Fresh Peaches**: The highlight of the dish, sweet and juicy peaches deliver natural flavor.
2. **Salted Butter**: Provides richness and a touch of saltiness, balancing the caramel’s sweetness.
3. **Granulated Sugar and Brown Sugar**: These sugars form the caramel and enrich the crisp topping.
4. **Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats and Pecans**: These components create the crunchy topping that beautifully contrasts the tender peaches.
5. **Flaky Salt**: A finishing accent that amplifies flavors and adds an enjoyable crunch.
## Instructions in Steps
### 1. Prepare the Peaches
Start by halving and pitting four pounds of fresh peaches. Slice the halves into wedges and toss them with lemon juice to keep them from browning.
### 2. Create the Salted Caramel
In a deep skillet, mix granulated sugar and water over medium-high heat. Let it bubble without stirring until it turns golden brown. Carefully whisk in salted butter, then incorporate heavy cream and flaky salt to achieve a smooth caramel sauce. Set aside some for drizzling later.
### 3. Partially Cook the Peaches
Introduce the peach wedges to the caramel in the skillet. Cook for around five minutes, allowing the peaches to soften a bit. Stir in cornstarch or tapioca flour to thicken the blend.
### 4. Prepare the Crisp Topping
In another bowl, combine melted salted butter, sugars, oats, chopped pecans, and flour until crumbly. Evenly distribute this topping over the caramelized peaches.
### 5. Bake
Move the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (205°C) and bake until the topping turns golden brown, and the juices are bubbling, approximately 20 minutes.
### 6. Serve
Let the crisp cool slightly before serving. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of reserved caramel sauce for a decadent finish.
## Tips for Achieving Success
– **Peeling Peaches**: Peeling is a matter of preference; the skins will soften while baking. For peeled peaches, blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds to facilitate skin removal.
– **Caramel Texture**: If your reserved caramel thickens as it cools, gently reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
– **Storage**: Leftover crisp can be kept in the refrigerator for up to six days, while the caramel sauce remains good for two weeks.
## Closing Thoughts
The Salted Caramel Peach Crisp is an ideal summertime dessert that merges the finest seasonal fruit with the indulgent taste of homemade caramel. This dish serves as both a treat for the palate and a visual pleasure, thanks to the marbled hues created by the peach skins. Whether savored at a summer event or as a cozy indulgence at home, this recipe is destined to become a staple in your dessert collection. So gather your ingredients, revel in the summer harvest, and treat yourself to this scrumptious crisp!