The Best Strawberry Peach Crisp Recipe for Summer Sweetness
Strawberry Peach Crisp is the kind of dessert that turns a warm afternoon into something unforgettable. With juicy peaches, ripe strawberries, and a golden oat topping that crisps to perfection, it’s everything you want in a summer dessert. It’s easy to prepare, packed with seasonal flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser whether you’re serving it at a backyard BBQ or sneaking a warm spoonful late at night.
In this complete guide, we’ll show you how to make the best strawberry peach crisp from scratch, explain why these fruits pair so perfectly, and offer expert tips for making it gluten-free, vegan, or just insanely delicious.
Don’t miss our Heavenly Summer Peach Bars if you love fruity desserts that feel like sunshine in a bite.
Why Strawberry and Peach Make the Perfect Pair
The natural flavor chemistry of peaches and strawberries
There’s a reason strawberries and peaches are a dream team in desserts—they’re naturally complementary. Peaches bring soft, floral sweetness, while strawberries add a tart, juicy kick that balances the flavor profile. Their textures also work in harmony when baked, softening just enough to create a melt-in-your-mouth fruit layer. These flavor dynamics are what make a strawberry peach crisp such a standout treat.
Strawberries, in particular, have a rich cultural and culinary history. From ancient Roman celebrations to modern-day pies, jams, and crisps, they’ve been beloved for centuries. This historical overview dives into their fascinating journey from wild fields to farmers’ markets.
Seasonal advantages of combining peach and strawberry
Timing matters when it comes to fruit. Strawberries tend to hit their peak in late spring through early summer, while peaches come into season a bit later. But there’s a golden overlap in June and July prime time for combining both in desserts like crisps. Using both means you can extend your fruity baking season while taking advantage of the freshest produce. Bonus: fresh, in-season fruit equals better flavor and texture every time.
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Strawberry Peach Crisp – The Best 2025 Summer Dessert in 5 Easy Steps
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fresh peaches + ripe strawberries + a buttery oat topping = the crisp of your summer dreams! This easy dessert bakes into a golden, bubbling masterpiece that’s perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of cozy, it’s ideal for brunches, backyard BBQs, or any sunny afternoon craving.
Ingredients
Topping:
• ½ cup old fashioned oats
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup salted butter, melted
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
Fruit Layer:
• 2½ cups peaches, peeled and sliced (about 3)
• 1 cup sliced strawberries
Syrup:
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 3 tsp cornstarch
• ⅓ cup water
• ⅛ tsp salt
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Topping:
• In a bowl, stir oats, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter until crumbly.
• Press half into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Add the Fruit:
• Layer sliced peaches and strawberries over the crust.
3️⃣ Cook the Syrup:
• In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, cornstarch, salt, and water.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (2–3 mins).
• Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
4️⃣ Assemble the Crisp:
• Pour syrup evenly over fruit.
• Crumble the remaining topping over everything.
5️⃣ Bake:
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
• For a crispier top, broil 2–3 minutes (optional, watch closely!).
Notes
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Fruit Swaps: You can substitute nectarines for peaches or add blueberries or raspberries for extra color and tartness.
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Frozen Fruit: If using frozen peaches or strawberries, thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture from making the crisp soggy.
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Make It Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
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Make It Vegan: Swap the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
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Crunchier Topping: For an extra crunchy topping, refrigerate the crumble mixture for 10–15 minutes before baking.
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Syrup Tip: Don’t skip the syrup—it thickens the fruit juices and prevents the crisp from becoming watery.
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Serving Tip: Best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
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Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F to keep the topping crisp.
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Freezing: Baked crisp can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F oven for 20–25 minutes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (~175g)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 105 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: Fruit Crumbles & Crisps, Summer Desserts, Easy Family Bakes, Make-Ahead Treats, Peach Recipes, Strawberry Recipes, Baked Fruit Ideas, Oat Topping Desserts, Brunch Desserts, BBQ Dessert Ideas
What Makes a Crisp Different from a Crumble or Cobbler
Defining a crisp vs. crumble
When it comes to baked fruit desserts, it’s easy to confuse a crisp with a crumble, but the difference is in the topping. A strawberry peach crisp features a buttery oat topping that bakes into a golden, textured crunch. A crumble, on the other hand, skips the oats and uses just flour, sugar, and butter, resulting in a softer, cookie-like layer. The oats in a crisp not only add texture but also a warm, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with peaches and strawberries.
Cobbler vs. crisp: structure and crust
A cobbler is a whole different game. Instead of a crumbly top, it’s made with spooned or layered biscuit dough that puffs up while baking. The result is more cake-like and fluffy. Unlike the light, crispy finish of a strawberry peach crisp, cobblers offer a denser bite, perfect if you want more “pastry” than crunch.
Ingredients for the Ultimate Strawberry Peach Crisp
Essential topping ingredients
The topping is what makes a strawberry peach crisp shine. You’ll need old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, and salted melted butter. This blend creates a sweet, crumbly finish that crisps up beautifully in the oven. Brown sugar adds deeper caramel-like notes compared to white sugar, giving the crisp a cozy, comforting flavor.
Not sure which sugar is best? This detailed sugar guide from King Arthur Baking explains the differences between sugar types and when to substitute them in baking.
Fresh fruit filling and syrup base
For the fruit layer, use fresh, peeled peaches and sliced strawberries. Choose ripe, in-season fruit for the best flavor and texture. What really pulls everything together is the homemade syrup: brown sugar, cornstarch, water, a pinch of salt, and vanilla extract. This mixture thickens on the stove and gets poured over the fruit before baking. It binds the filling, prevents sogginess, and adds a caramel-like richness that takes your strawberry peach crisp to the next level.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Assembling the topping and base
Start by mixing your oats, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter in a bowl until crumbly. This mixture will act as both the crust and topping. Press half of it firmly into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish to form a solid base. This bottom layer bakes into a slightly chewy crust that supports the fruit and adds texture.
Cooking and thickening the syrup
In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, cornstarch, salt, and water over medium heat. Stir constantly until it thickens, about 2–3 minutes. Once thick, remove it from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This syrup prevents the fruit from releasing too much moisture during baking, keeping your crisp from becoming soggy.
Final baking process
Layer the sliced peaches and strawberries over the base, pour the syrup evenly, and top with the remaining crumble. Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes, broiling for 2–3 minutes at the end for a crispier top.
Tips for Baking a Perfect Strawberry Peach Crisp Every Time
Choosing ripe, juicy fruit
The secret to a flawless strawberry peach crisp starts with the fruit. Choose ripe peaches that yield slightly to touch—overripe ones can become mushy, while underripe ones won’t sweeten properly during baking. For strawberries, go for vibrant red berries with no white or green tips. Wash and dry them thoroughly before slicing to avoid excess moisture.
Avoiding soggy bottoms or dry topping
A crisp that’s too wet or dry ruins the experience. To avoid sogginess, don’t skip the syrup it thickens the juices and prevents pooling at the bottom. Always bake uncovered, so the topping gets golden and crunchy. If the top looks too pale near the end, broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden finish just watch it closely to prevent burning. For an extra crunchy bite, use cold butter when mixing the topping and press the base firmly into the dish.
Classic pairings: Ice cream and whipped cream
Nothing complements a warm strawberry peach crisp like a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream. The creaminess melts into the bubbly fruit and crisp topping, creating the ultimate contrast in texture and temperature. If you prefer something lighter, a dollop of homemade whipped cream or even store-bought works just as well airy, sweet, and a perfect finish to every bite.
Creative pairings: Yogurt, granola, or mascarpone
Looking to switch it up? Serve leftovers cold with Greek yogurt for a sweet breakfast twist, or sprinkle on some granola for extra crunch. Hosting a dinner party? Impress guests by pairing your crisp with a spoonful of mascarpone cheese or a drizzle of honey. These modern takes give your strawberry peach crisp a refreshing upgrade, proving it’s not just a dessert—it’s a versatile treat you can enjoy any time of day.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Tips
How to store and reheat strawberry peach crisp
Once cooled, store your leftover strawberry peach crisp in an airtight container or tightly covered with foil. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the oven instead of the microwave to preserve that crispy topping—simply place it in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving is quicker but may leave the topping soft.
Can you freeze it? Yes with these precautions
Yes, this dessert freezes beautifully! To freeze, let the baked crisp cool completely, then wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap followed by foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results, reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F oven for 20–25 minutes. The topping stays crisp, and the fruit warms up perfectly—making this strawberry peach crisp a make-ahead favorite for busy days or future cravings.
FAQs about Strawberry Peach Crisp
Do peach and strawberry go together?
Absolutely. The sweet floral flavor of peaches pairs beautifully with the tart, juicy profile of strawberries. Together, they create a naturally balanced flavor that shines in desserts like strawberry peach crisp. Their textures also complement each other—soft, juicy, and perfect for baking.
What is the difference between a peach crisp and a crumble?
The main difference lies in the topping. A peach crisp includes oats for a crunchy texture, while a crumble uses just flour, sugar, and butter, resulting in a denser, cake-like layer. The oats in a crisp make it more rustic and hearty.
What are the ingredients for peach crisp?
A basic peach crisp includes peaches, brown sugar, flour, butter, and oats. Cinnamon and vanilla are often added for depth of flavor. In a strawberry peach crisp, strawberries are mixed in for a fruity twist.
Is Strawberry Peach LaCroix limited edition?
Yes, it’s typically released seasonally and may not be available year-round.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like the comforting, fruity goodness of a homemade strawberry peach crisp. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this dessert captures the essence of summer in every bite. Whether you’re serving it warm with vanilla ice cream or chilled with a spoonful of whipped cream, it’s the kind of treat that brings people back for seconds. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity fresh fruit, a golden oat topping, and a sweet vanilla syrup that ties it all together.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can make it ahead, freeze it, or swap ingredients to fit your preferences. From family picnics to last-minute gatherings, this crisp is always a hit.
Don’t miss our Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting for another easy dessert to impress guests.
Now go ahead grab those ripe peaches and strawberries. Your next favorite dessert is waiting.
