Baked Peaches

Baked peaches are the true expression of the arrival of summer. Fresh peaches are drizzled with brown sugar and cinnamon and baked until warm and tender. Enjoy them warm with ice cream or a pour of fresh heavy cream for a decadent dessert, or add a little balsamic glaze for an indulgent appetizer.

Ingredients

2 yellow or white peaches (as ripe as possible), halved and pitted

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon Sauternes or Cognac (optional)

1 tablespoon light brown sugar

1 tablespoon honey (optional)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Method

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. Lightly coat a baking dish that is large enough to hold the peach halves in a single layer with nonstick spray.

3. Arrange peaches cut-side up on the dish.

4. In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the oil, honey (if using), sugar, vanilla, cinnamon and salt until it is well combined.

5. Spoon the mixture over the peaches, filling the centers and letting it run over the sides to coat each peach half.

6. Bake uncovered until the peaches are cooked through and fork-tender, about 45 minutes.

7. Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream, heavy cream, or enjoy them just as they are!

In the Glass

If you are enjoying the peaches as an appetizer, pair them with champagne or a crisp white wine, depending on whether you're having them alone or with something like spicy prawns for example.

If you prefer your peaches for dessert, a Sauternes or other dessert wine would be an ideal accompaniment.

Notes

To store: Place your baked peaches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for four to five days. you can also place any of the topping you may have left over in the fridge and use it to top the peaches when you reheat them.

To reheat: Lay the baked peaches cut-side up in a baking dish. Reheat in a 350 degree F oven for 10 minutes.