Peaches and Cream, Literally

4.9
(10)

Peaches and cream is a classic combination and this dessert recipe is so simple to make. Fresh peaches are lightly sweetened and simmered with water, then mixed with cold, heavy cream and chilled. Just remember to make this ahead of time for the peachiest results.

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Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
10 mins
Additional Time:
3 hrs 15 mins
Total Time:
3 hrs 40 mins
Servings:
4
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Ingredients

Original recipe (1X) yields 4 servings

  • 4 medium fresh peaches, or as needed

  • cup white sugar, or to taste

  • ¼ cup water

  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream

Directions

  1. Cut each peach in half along the crease, twist open, and remove the pit. Peel and slice. Cut slices in half to get roughly 2 cups of sliced peaches.

  2. Bring sugar and water to a boil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Boil until a syrup forms, about 3 minutes. Stir in peaches until coated. Bring syrup back to a light simmer, about 1 minute. Immediately remove from the heat and pour mixture into a bowl to cool, 15 to 20 minutes.

  3. Use a slotted spoon to transfer peaches to a large bowl. Discard simple syrup or reserve for another use. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Divide mixture between six serving glasses or bowls, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until completely chilled and cream has absorbed all the peach flavor, at least 3 hours.

    close up view of a Peaches and Cream dessert in a glass
    Chef John

Chef's Notes

If your peaches are very sweet, you can skip the simple syrup step (step 2).

My attempt at a cooked-cream version didn't turn out as well as the classic but feel free to try it anyway. After Step 2, simmer heavy cream with 1/4 cup white sugar in a small pot until slightly thickened, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 2 teaspoons lemon juice, then let cool slightly. Transfer peaches into serving glasses using a slotted spoon, then pour warm cream mixture on top. Cover the glasses with plastic wrap and refrigerate until completely chilled. Pour leftover peach syrup into a saucepan and simmer until reduced by about half, 3 to 5 minutes. Let cool briefly before spooning onto each serving.

Editor's Note:

Nutrition data for this recipe includes the full amount of simple syrup. The actual amount consumed will vary.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

397 Calories
33g Fat
25g Carbs
2g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 4
Calories 397
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 33g 42%
Saturated Fat 21g 103%
Cholesterol 122mg 41%
Sodium 38mg 2%
Total Carbohydrate 25g 9%
Total Sugars 23g
Protein 2g 4%
Vitamin C 42mg 47%
Calcium 70mg 5%
Iron 0mg 1%
Potassium 100mg 2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.