It’s peach season here in Colorado! I’m guessing it might be for you as well. I’m not a huge baker but I have been known to make simple yet delicious desserts or snacks. And these air fried peaches fit both!

Ok, let’s dive in!

Air Fried Peaches

Air frying has become a popular and healthy alternative to traditional frying methods, allowing people to create delicious dishes without the excess fat from oil. One fruit that has emerged as an extraordinary treat when air-fried is the peach, with its natural sweetness and juicy texture providing a mouthwatering indulgence. 

Air frying peaches creates a caramelized crust on the outside while retaining a tender, succulent flesh inside, making it the perfect snack or dessert option for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Preparing air-fried peaches is a simple process, as it typically requires just a few ingredients and an air fryer to achieve that golden brown, delicious finish. Combine the peaches with melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor and sweetness.

Cook at the right temperature and duration, usually between 350-400°F, for about 5-10 minutes, and you’ll be rewarded with a delectable treat that can be enjoyed on its own or with toppings like vanilla ice cream or yogurt.

Not only do air-fried peaches make a fantastic dessert, but they can be incorporated into various recipes such as salads, paired with meats, or used as a garnish to enhance the presentation and taste of a dish. Their versatility and health benefits make air-fried peaches a go-to option for those seeking a touch of sweetness without compromising on nutrition.

Now let me share just how easy these air fired peaches are to make and enjoy!

Selecting the Right Peaches

When making air-fried peaches, choosing the right peaches is essential for the best result. In this section, we’ll discuss picking the perfect peach based on ripeness and color.

Ripe vs. Firm Peaches

Selecting a ripe peach ensures optimal flavor and texture in your finished dish. When gently pressed, a ripe peach should have a slight give and emit a sweet aroma. Peaches that are too firm may not have as much flavor and can be tougher when air-fried. 

On the other hand, overripe peaches may become too soft during the air-frying process. To pick the best peaches for air-frying, look for those that are firm yet have a slight give when pressed. 

Keep in mind that peaches will continue to ripen after being picked, so if you don’t plan on cooking them immediately, a slightly firmer peach might be a better choice.

Yellow vs. White Peaches

Both yellow and white peaches can be used for air-frying, but each offers a slightly different flavor. Yellow peaches have a traditional peach flavor with a balance of sweetness and tartness. 

They are identifiable by their vibrant yellow flesh and golden-reddish skin. White peaches, on the other hand, have a milder, sweeter taste and a pale, almost white flesh color. Here in Colorado we have peaches from Palisade, Colorado. They are closer to the yellow variety and oh so sweet!

When selecting between white or yellow peaches for your air-frying recipe, consider the desired flavor profile. Yellow peaches offer a more classic, balanced taste, while white peaches provide a subtle sweetness. Both varieties can create delicious air-fried peaches, so the choice ultimately depends on personal preference.

In summary, make sure to select peaches with the appropriate ripeness and color for an enjoyable air-fried peach experience. A ripe, fragrant peach with a slight firmness ensures the best texture and flavor, while the color and variety depend on individual taste preferences.

Preparing the Fruit

Before you start air frying your peaches, it is essential to prepare them properly. This process involves two main steps: pitting and halving the peaches. By following the instructions below, you will be able to create delicious air-fried peaches that are both visually appealing and flavorful.

Pitting the Peaches

First, ensure that you are using ripe peaches for the best results. To pit the peaches, you will need a sharp knife. Carefully slice into the peach along its natural seam, going all the way around its circumference. 

The positioning and angle of the knife is crucial, as you want to cut through the flesh without hitting the pit. Gently twist the two halves in opposite directions to separate them, and the pit should now be exposed. Carefully remove the pit with the knife or your fingers.

Halving the Peaches

Once you have successfully pitted the peaches, the next step is to halve them. Use a sharp knife to continue cutting along the natural seam from the initial cut you made while pitting. You should now have two peach halves ready for air frying. Remember to handle the peaches gently, as ripe peaches are delicate and can easily become squished or damaged.

Ingredients and Flavors

Sweet vs. Savory

Before you start air frying your peaches, it is essential to prepare them properly. This process involves two main steps: pitting and halving the peaches. By following the instructions below, you will be able to create delicious air-fried peaches that are both visually appealing and flavorful.

Complementing Spices

The flavors of air-fried peaches can be enhanced with a range of complementary spices. A popular choice is cinnamon, providing a warm, sweet-spicy flavor that pairs well with fruit. Ground ginger and nutmeg can also be used to bring more depth to the dish.

Additional Toppings

Toppings are a great way to elevate the taste and texture of air-fried peaches. For a creamy addition, consider vanilla ice cream or yogurt. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness. 

To add crunch, sprinkle with chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or graham cracker crumbs. Using fresh mint leaves can also provide a contrasting freshness to the dish. For an indulgent treat, make a combination of cinnamon butter, caramel sauce, and graham crackers to top your caramelized peaches.

The Air Frying Process

Preheating the Air Fryer

Before you begin the process of making air fryer peaches, it’s important to preheat your air fryer properly. This will ensure an even and consistent cook, resulting in beautifully caramelized peaches. Most air fryers require a preheating time of approximately 5 minutes at a temperature of 350°F (175°C).

Frying the Peaches

Once your air fryer is properly preheated, it’s time to prepare the peaches. Start by selecting ripe, but not too soft, peaches, as they will become even softer during the cooking process. 

Cut the peaches in half and remove the pits. Next, mix together the caramelizing ingredients in a small bowl, typically consisting of butter, honey, and cinnamon. Brush this mixture onto the cut side of the peaches.

Place the prepared peaches in the air fryer basket, ensuring there is enough space between them for proper air circulation. Some air fryer users may choose to line the basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking and provide an easy clean-up.

Achieving the Perfect Caramelization

To achieve the perfect caramelization of your air fryer peaches, cook them skin side down for about 8-10 minutes at the preheated temperature. During this time, the natural sugars in the peaches, along with the caramelizing mixture, will develop a beautiful, rich caramel color and flavor on the cut side.

After cooking, the peaches should be tender and slightly browned, similar to the effect of grilled peaches. This caramelization not only enhances the overall taste of the peaches but also adds a delightful texture to the fruit. Some variations of air fryer peaches may include additional toppings or mix-ins such as brown sugar, coconut oil, cinnamon, or even vanilla ice cream.

In conclusion, air-frying peaches delivers a unique and delectable experience that transforms the simple fruit into a delightful dessert or snack. By following these steps and using your air fryer, you can enjoy perfectly caramelized peaches with ease and minimal effort.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Air-fried peaches are a versatile treat perfect for a variety of pairings and accompaniments. The following subsections provide sweet and savory pairing options to help you make the most out of your air-fried peach experience.

Sweet Pairing Options

Air-fried peaches go exceptionally well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For added texture, you can sprinkle chopped nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts on top. Additionally, other stone fruits like nectarines, plums, and apricots make great companions for air-fried peaches.

If you prefer a healthier option, yogurt pairs nicely with the caramelized sweetness of the peaches. Peach cobbler is another delicious choice, which can be served with oats and a scoop of ice cream.

When entertaining guests, consider using air-fried peaches in a dessert like peach pie, peach galette, or peach crisp, as they can provide a delightful twist to traditional recipes.

For a morning treat, consider topping your pancakes or waffles with caramelized peaches, or indulge yourself with some peach-filled donuts. A drizzle of caramel sauce can enhance the natural sweetness of the fruit and elevate the dish even further.

Savory Pairing Suggestions

Though sweet pairings are popular, air-fried peaches can also be added to salads and savory dishes. Their caramelized flavor is an excellent complement to crisp vegetables like tomatoes and fresh greens, resulting in a flavorful and refreshing salad.

Roasted apples can be another excellent addition to your air-fried peach salad, offering contrasting flavors and textures.

For a more substantial meal, pair your air-fried peaches with grilled chicken, pork, or fish. The natural sweetness of peaches provides a pleasant contrast to the savory flavors of the meat.

Summer-themed dishes like melon salads can benefit from the inclusion of caramelized peaches, while unique recipes like peach salsa can add a fruity twist to traditional tacos or grilled items.

Storage and Reheating Options

Storing and reheating your air fryer peaches can help retain their flavor and texture for later enjoyment. Following proper storage and reheating practices is essential to maintain the quality of your peaches.

For storing air fryer peaches, you can use an airtight container or a plastic bag with a seal. Place the container in the refrigerator to keep the peaches fresh for up to two days. It is crucial to ensure you are using ripe peaches for air frying as they provide the best taste and texture, so considering their shelf life is essential before refrigeration.

If you have canned peaches, you can easily store them in your pantry at room temperature. Once opened, transfer any remaining canned peaches to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Reheating air fryer peaches is a simple process. Set the air fryer to a low temperature of approximately 200°F (93°C) and place the stored peaches inside. Reheat them for about 5-8 minutes, depending on the size of the peach slices. This method will ensure your reheated peaches retain their flavor and texture while minimizing the risk of drying them out.

Keep in mind that air fryer peaches are a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried desserts, as they involve less fat and oil, making them a nutritious, low-calorie treat. However, always maintain moderation in your consumption to balance your diet.

Following these storage and reheating options for your air fryer peaches guarantees that your tasty dessert remains enjoyable and ready to be savored any time you like.

Alternative Peach Recipes

Guilt-Free Peach Cobbler

This Guilt-Free Peach Cobbler is a fantastic way to enjoy the natural sweetness of peaches without feeling too indulgent. The use of fiber-rich ingredients along with the natural sugars in peaches creates a delicious yet nutritious dessert. To start, you’ll need ripe peaches, cinnamon, and just a touch of sugar to help caramelize the fruit. You can also add some honey or other natural sweeteners to taste. The result is a tasty and satisfying treat with a perfect balance of flavors and nutrients.

In this recipe, peaches are placed in an air fryer basket and cooked until they develop a beautiful caramelized exterior. The high heat of the air fryer allows peaches to cook more efficiently and maintain their nutrients compared to traditional baking methods. Once your peaches are caramelized, serve them with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of nuts, or a drizzle of honey for added indulgence without the guilt.

Air Fryer Peach Galette

The Air Fryer Peach Galette offers a rustic charm and simplicity that’s hard to resist. The process starts by prepping your peaches: just wash, pit, and slice them into thin wedges. You’ll then toss the peaches in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon to enhance their natural sweetness and create a beautiful caramel flavor during the cooking process.

Layers of sliced peaches are then arranged on a galette crust, which can be made from scratch or purchased pre-made from the store. Using an air fryer to cook the galette allows for even cooking and a delightful caramelization of both the peaches and crust, bringing out the best of their flavors.

Summer Peach Crisp

A favorite staple among fruit-based desserts, the Summer Peach Crisp celebrates the natural sweetness of ripe peaches while adding a delightful crunch from the crisp topping. Just like the other recipes, you’ll begin by prepping your peaches, pitting, and slicing them into even wedges.

The peach slices are then tossed in a mixture of sugar, cinnamon, and a bit of melted butter to give them a delicious caramel-like flavor when cooked. Place the peaches into the air fryer basket and cook until tender and caramelized. For the crisp topping, combine oats, nuts (such as pecans), sugar, and cinnamon, and cook separately in the air fryer until golden and crispy.

To assemble the Summer Peach Crisp, layer the cooked peaches in a serving dish and top them with the crispy oat and nut mixture. The contrast of textures and the burst of peach flavor make this a perfect summertime dessert. Don’t hesitate to experiment with substituting nectarines for the peaches to add a slightly tart edge to this classic treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

Good news! If you don’t have an air fryer you can always bake the peaches in the oven using the exact same method!

How long should I cook peaches in an air fryer?

Cook peaches in an air fryer at 350 degrees for 7-12 minutes or until the tops are brown and the fruit is tender. Be sure to cut the peaches in half and place the cut side face up in the air fryer basket for best results.

What toppings can I add to air-fried peaches?

There are various delicious toppings that can be added to air-fried peaches. Some popular options include cinnamon honey butter, brown sugar, and vanilla ice cream. Mixing softened butter with honey and cinnamon and adding it to the cut side of the peaches is a popular choice.

Can I use canned or jarred peaches in the air fryer?

It is best to use fresh, just ripe peaches for air frying, as they provide better flavor and texture. However, if you decide to use canned or jarred peaches, be sure to drain them thoroughly and pat them dry before proceeding with air frying. Keep in mind that the results might not be the same as when using fresh peaches.

How can I incorporate air-fried peaches into a salad?

Air-fried peaches can be a delicious addition to a salad. They add a balance of sweetness and warmth to the mix of greens and other ingredients. To incorporate air-fried peaches into a salad, try cutting the cooked peaches into bite-sized pieces or wedges and add them to a mix of greens, nuts, like almonds or walnuts, crumbled cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, and drizzle with a light vinaigrette. The combination of these savory and sweet elements creates a satisfying and flavorful dish.

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xoxo,

Kelly