Bourbon Cherry Peach Crumble Recipe: The Ultimate Summer & Fall Dessert

This Bourbon Cherry Peach Crumble is a truly delightful dessert, embodying the perfect harmony of tart cherries and juicy, sun-kissed peaches, all crowned with a golden-brown sugar oatmeal topping. It’s one of those effortlessly impressive recipes that consistently earns rave reviews from everyone who tries it. With its simple preparation and explosion of complex flavors and textures, this easy crumble is destined to become a beloved staple in your dessert collection. Just be sure to have plenty of creamy vanilla ice cream on hand; it’s the ideal accompaniment to this warm, comforting fruit bake!

As the vibrant hues of summer begin to mellow and the crispness of autumn gently hints in the air, my culinary inclinations often shift towards comforting baked goods. A well-made fruit crumble is always a top contender on my list during this transitional period, especially one that brilliantly marries the best offerings of both seasons. While any classic apple crisp or a vibrant easy cherry cobbler has my vote, this particular Bourbon Cherry Peach Crumble recipe holds a special place. It offers a scrumptious bridge between the juicy sweetness of summer and the cozy warmth that fall baking promises. Its straightforward preparation and universally loved flavor profile make it an instant crowd-pleaser for any gathering or a simple weeknight treat.

Late summer is synonymous with an abundance of perfectly ripe peaches, and I eagerly seize every opportunity to incorporate them into my cooking before their season passes. When paired with the tangy sweetness of fresh cherries, this dessert captures the very essence of summer’s bounty. It’s the ideal recipe for those weeks when you’re not quite ready to bid farewell to fresh, juicy fruits, but you’re also anticipating the comforting embrace of warm, baked treats. With every spoonful, you get to experience a wonderfully gooey, bubbling fruit filling, simultaneously savoring the bright, juicy, and slightly tart notes that only fresh summer cherries and peaches can provide. The addition of bourbon introduces a sophisticated depth, elevating the fruit flavors without overpowering them, creating a truly unique and memorable dessert experience.

Beyond the luscious fruit filling, what truly sets this dessert apart is its irresistible crunchy topping. This delicate brown sugar oatmeal crumble bakes to a beautiful golden perfection, delivering just the right amount of buttery sweetness and satisfying texture. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the crisp, slightly chewy oats and the soft, warm fruit filling underneath. The rich notes of brown sugar mingle with a hint of cinnamon, creating an aromatic crust that is simply divine. This golden layer not only adds an appealing visual element but also provides a crucial textural dimension that makes this peach crumble so utterly addictive.

Imagine serving a generous portion of this warm cherry peach crumble, fresh from the oven, with a substantial scoop of melting vanilla bean ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream slowly succumbs to the warmth of the fruit, creating a decadent, textural symphony that is nothing short of heavenly. This classic pairing is guaranteed to transform a simple dessert into an extraordinary experience, having everyone eagerly running to the table for more. It’s an easy dessert to assemble, yet it tastes like you’ve spent hours perfecting it. Honestly, I could literally eat this easy peach crumble every single night right now. And, if I’m being optimistic, I’d still be getting my daily serving of fruit in, right?

Essential Tools for Your Perfect Cherry Peach Crumble

Creating this delicious Bourbon Cherry Peach Crumble doesn’t require an arsenal of specialized kitchen gadgets. In fact, you likely already own most of the essentials! To prepare both the luscious fruit filling and the delightful crumble topping, you’ll primarily need your trusty set of mixing bowls and a sturdy wooden spoon. These simple, everyday tools are perfect for gently combining the fruit with its flavorings and for initially mixing the dry ingredients for the crumble.

However, when it comes to truly mastering the crumble topping, your hands will prove to be your most valuable tools. There’s no substitute for the tactile feel of cutting cold butter into flour and oats with your fingertips, ensuring you achieve that ideal crumbly, “wet sand” texture. This hands-on approach is truly the easiest and most effective way to integrate the butter, creating small pockets of rich flavor and guaranteeing a perfectly crisp topping once baked. A good cherry pitter can also be an incredibly helpful tool, making quick work of preparing your cherries and saving you significant time and potential mess.

For baking, I often reach for my beloved old 2 1/2 quart baking dish, a charming find from a thrift store many moons ago. Its character adds a touch of nostalgia to every homemade crumble! But don’t worry if you don’t have a vintage dish; any oven-safe baking dish of the appropriate size will work beautifully. A 9-by-9-inch square baking dish is a perfect alternative, whether it’s made of glass or metal. The key is to ensure your dish is large enough to comfortably hold all the fruit filling and topping without overflowing, allowing the crumble to bake evenly and achieve that irresistible golden crust. If you desire a slightly thinner crumble with more surface area for crispness, you could opt for a 9×13-inch rectangular dish, though you might consider slightly increasing the crumble topping ingredients to ensure adequate coverage.

Mastering the Art of Bourbon Cherry Peach Crumble

Crafting this delightful peach crumble is far simpler than you might anticipate. The entire process is broken down into three straightforward and enjoyable steps: first, preparing the wonderfully flavorful fruit filling; second, mixing up the perfectly textured crumble topping; and finally, assembling and baking it to golden, bubbling perfection. Let’s walk through each stage to ensure your homemade Bourbon Cherry Peach Crumble is a resounding success, dazzling your taste buds with every spoonful.

Crafting the Irresistible Fruit Filling

The very heart of any truly great fruit crumble lies in its filling, and this cherry peach crumble is certainly no exception. Begin by meticulously preparing your fresh fruit. For the cherries, it’s essential to pit them thoroughly. A dedicated cherry pitter can dramatically speed up this task and minimize mess, but a small paring knife works perfectly well for careful extraction. For the peaches, aim for thin, uniform slices. While you can leave the skins on for a more rustic texture and added fiber, if you prefer a smoother filling, a quick dip in boiling water for 30-60 seconds, followed by an immediate ice bath, will make the skins incredibly easy to peel away.

Once your fruit is perfectly prepped, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Now, it’s time to infuse it with all the wonderful flavors that make this crumble truly shine. Add the light brown sugar, which will not only sweeten but also caramelize beautifully as it bakes, enhancing the fruit’s natural sugars. The tablespoon of bourbon is a crucial ingredient here; it adds a subtle warmth, a nuanced complexity, and a depth of flavor that complements both the cherries and peaches without overwhelming their natural sweetness. Next, whisk in the flour (or cornstarch, if you prefer a gluten-free option), which acts as a thickening agent, ensuring your fruit filling becomes wonderfully gooey and syrupy, rather than watery. Finally, a pinch of salt will balance the sweetness, a dash of ground cinnamon will highlight the fruit’s inherent aromas, and the vanilla bean paste adds an unparalleled aromatic richness. Gently toss all these ingredients together with your wooden spoon or hands until the fruit is thoroughly and evenly coated with this delicious mixture.

Carefully transfer this vibrant fruit mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer across the bottom. Before adding the crumble topping, dot the top of the fruit generously with small cubes of cold unsalted butter. As the crumble bakes, these butter pieces will slowly melt into the fruit, creating pockets of rich, buttery goodness that prevent the top layer of fruit from drying out and contribute significantly to that irresistible bubbling consistency you look for in a perfect fruit crumble.

Creating the Golden, Crunchy Crumble Topping

The brown sugar oatmeal crumble is undeniably one of the absolute stars of this dessert, truly making this bourbon peach crumble stand out. It’s what delivers that signature texture – a beautifully golden-brown, buttery-sweet crunch that provides a perfect contrast to the warm, luscious fruit filling bubbling below. Achieving the ideal consistency for this topping is critical, and it primarily comes down to how you incorporate the butter into the dry ingredients.

Start by combining the old-fashioned oats (ensure they are not instant oats, as instant oats will turn mushy), loosely packed light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and salt in a separate medium bowl. Give them a good whisk or stir to ensure they are thoroughly mixed and evenly distributed. Now comes the all-important step: adding the cold, slightly softened unsalted butter. While you can use a pastry blender or even two forks, I wholeheartedly recommend using your hands. It truly is the easiest, most efficient, and most intuitive way to work the butter into the dry ingredients. Use your fingertips to pinch and rub the butter into the mixture. You want to break down any larger pieces of butter until the mixture resembles coarse, wet sand, with some small, pea-sized crumbs of butter still visible. The warmth of your hands helps to slightly soften the butter just enough to bind the ingredients without melting it completely, which is crucial for that desirable crumbly texture. Be careful not to overmix; once you achieve that “wet sand” consistency, stop. This meticulous process ensures the topping will be perfectly tender yet wonderfully crispy when baked, providing an exquisite counterpoint to the soft fruit filling.

Assembling and Baking Your Delicious Crumble

With both your flavorful fruit filling and your perfectly textured crumble topping ready, the final steps to achieving this magnificent dessert are wonderfully simple. Evenly sprinkle the glorious crumble mixture over the prepared fruit filling in your baking dish. Ensure a good, consistent layer across the entire surface so that every single spoonful will get a piece of that irresistible, buttery crunch. Once assembled, gently slide your dish into the preheated oven and let the magic begin. The incredible aromas that will soon waft through your kitchen are absolutely divine and will have everyone eagerly anticipating dessert!

Bake your cherry peach crumble for approximately 35 to 45 minutes, or until you observe the fruit filling bubbling lusciously and visibly around the edges of the dish, and the oatmeal topping has transformed into a beautiful, inviting golden-brown and appears wonderfully crispy. These visual cues are your indicators that the fruit is perfectly tender, the juices have thickened to a syrupy consistency, and the crumble is baked to golden perfection. Once you remove it from the oven, resist the urge to dive in immediately. Similar to pies and other piping hot fruit desserts, it’s crucial to let it cool for at least 5 to 10 minutes. This short but essential resting period allows those scorching hot, syrupy juices to settle and thicken further, preventing a runny mess and ensuring each serving is perfectly set and incredibly satisfying. Patience, in this case, truly yields the most delicious and satisfying results.

While this easy crumble is undeniably heavenly on its own, it is elevated to an entirely new level when served with a generous scoop of cold, creamy vanilla bean ice cream. The delightful contrast between the warm, sweet-tart fruit and the melting, rich ice cream is pure bliss and an experience not to be missed. Alternatively, consider serving it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a delicate drizzle of caramel sauce, or even a sophisticated crème anglaise for an extra touch of elegance. For those who enjoy a bit of added texture, a sprinkle of toasted chopped nuts on top can be a wonderful enhancement. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this bourbon cherry peach crumble is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that celebrates the absolute best of seasonal fruits and comforting home baking.

Fresh vs. Canned Peaches: Which is Best for Crumble?

The common question of whether to use fresh or canned fruit often arises when baking, and for this particular Bourbon Cherry Peach Crumble, while canned peaches can serve as a convenient substitute, I wholeheartedly recommend using fresh peaches whenever possible. The difference in flavor, sweetness, and vibrant texture is simply incomparable. Fresh, ripe peaches offer a more nuanced, juicy sweetness and a delightful firmness that canned versions, despite their convenience, often struggle to replicate. Their natural sugars and delicate acidity contribute to a far more complex and satisfying fruit filling, truly bringing the essence of summer to your dessert.

However, if fresh peaches are out of season, difficult to find, or simply unavailable, canned peaches are a perfectly viable alternative. When selecting canned peaches, it’s crucial to opt for those packed in 100% juice, not heavy syrup. Peaches preserved in heavy syrup contain an excessive amount of added sugar that can easily make your crumble overly sweet and disrupt the delicate balance of flavors we aim for. Before incorporating them into your recipe, make sure to thoroughly drain the canned peaches and give them a light rinse under cold running water. This essential step helps to wash away any residual syrup or excess sweetness from the packing liquid, ensuring your crumble maintains its intended flavor profile. Another excellent option, if fresh isn’t available, is to use frozen peach slices. Frozen peaches are often picked and frozen at their peak ripeness, locking in their natural flavor. There’s generally no need to thaw them beforehand; simply toss them with the other filling ingredients and proceed with the recipe, though you might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.

Storing and Freezing Your Peach Crumble

One of the many wonderful advantages of making a delicious peach crumble is its impressive freezer-friendliness, which allows you to enjoy this delightful dessert long after it’s been freshly baked. You can easily keep a baked and completely cooled crumble in the freezer for up to 2 months without compromising its exquisite taste or texture. To freeze a baked crumble, ensure it has cooled completely to room temperature. Then, cover the baking dish tightly with a layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. This dual layer provides crucial protection against freezer burn and helps to preserve its freshness and quality.

When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw the frozen crumble in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours until defrosted. Then, warm it in a preheated 350˚F (175˚C) oven for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the topping regains some of its original crispness. This quick reheating process will bring back that comforting, fresh-baked warmth and delightful aroma. For those who enjoy planning ahead, you can also prepare and store the crumble unbaked. To do this, prepare the fruit filling and the crumble topping separately. Store the fruit filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. The crumble topping can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or frozen in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw any frozen components completely in the refrigerator. Then, simply assemble the crumble by spreading the fruit filling in your baking dish and evenly sprinkling the crumble topping over it. Bake according to the recipe instructions for a fresh-tasting, perfectly crisp homemade dessert anytime. This method is excellent for entertaining or satisfying a spontaneous dessert craving with minimal effort on the day of serving.

Explore More Delectable Peach Dessert Recipes

If you find yourself with an abundance of juicy peaches, or simply can’t get enough of their sweet, aromatic flavor, you’re in luck! Peaches are incredibly versatile and lend themselves beautifully to a wide array of desserts beyond this fantastic Bourbon Cherry Peach Crumble. Here are a few more delightful peach-inspired recipes to keep your summer and early fall baking exciting and deliciously satisfying:

Peach Plum Cobbler

A true classic Southern comfort, this cobbler expertly combines the succulent sweetness of peaches with the vibrant, slightly tart notes of plums, all nestled under a tender, fluffy biscuit-like topping. It’s another warm, inviting dessert that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings.

Raspberry Peach Prosecco Popsicles

For a refreshing, elegantly adult-friendly treat, these popsicles are an absolute dream. The delightful effervescence of Prosecco, combined with the sweet peaches and tangy raspberries, creates an exquisite and cooling summer delight, perfect for celebrations or a luxurious cooldown.

Blackberry Peach Shortcake Stacks

Indulge in layers of fluffy, tender shortcake, juicy ripe blackberries, and tender sweet peaches, all generously adorned with a luscious mint-infused whipped cream. This dessert is as visually stunning as it is delicious to eat, making it a perfect choice for a light yet indulgent summer treat.

Peach and Blueberry Galette

Embrace rustic elegance with this charming free-form tart. Sweet, sliced peaches and plump, burst-in-your-mouth blueberries are beautifully encased in a flaky, buttery crust, offering a simpler yet equally impressive alternative to a traditional pie. It’s a wonderful way to showcase the fresh flavors of summer berries and stone fruit.

Bourbon Cherry Peach Crumble Recipe Card

Bourbon Cherry Peach Crumble

Experience the perfect late-summer or early-fall dessert! This Bourbon Cherry Peach Crumble features a luscious filling of tart cherries and juicy peaches, infused with a hint of bourbon, all beneath a golden-brown, buttery oatmeal topping. It’s easy to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, especially when served warm with vanilla ice cream!

Prep Time: 10 minutes mins

Cook Time: 45 minutes mins

Total Time: 55 minutes mins

4.4 from 5 votes

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Equipment

• Wooden Spoon & Scraper
• Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
• Stoneware Baking Dish
• Cherry Pitter (optional)
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board

Ingredients

Filling

• 2 cups bing cherries pitted, fresh or frozen
• 2 peaches thinly sliced, ripe fresh (or canned in 100% juice, drained & rinsed)
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1 Tbsp bourbon (optional, but highly recommended for flavor depth)
• 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free option)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter cut into small cubes

Crumble Topping

• 1 cup old-fashioned oats (not instant)
• 1/2 cup loosely packed light brown sugar
• 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 4 Tbsp cold unsalted butter cut into small cubes and softened slightly
• Vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)

Instructions

• 1. Prepare Oven: Preheat your oven to 375˚F (190˚C). Have your 2 1/2 quart baking dish (or 9×9-inch dish) ready.
• 2. Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pitted cherries and thinly sliced peaches. Add the light brown sugar, bourbon, flour (or cornstarch), salt, ground cinnamon, and vanilla bean paste. Toss gently with a wooden spoon or your hands until the fruit is thoroughly and evenly coated with the mixture.
• 3. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the fruit filling into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out into an even layer across the bottom. Evenly sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter pieces over the fruit mixture.
• 4. Make the Crumble Topping: In a separate medium bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, 1/2 cup light brown sugar, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add the 4 tablespoons of cold, slightly softened unsalted butter. Use your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients, pinching and rubbing until the mixture is crumbly and resembles coarse, wet sand with some small pea-sized butter pieces remaining.
• 5. Assemble: Evenly sprinkle the prepared crumble mixture over the fruit filling in the baking dish, ensuring good coverage across the entire surface.
• 6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. The crumble is done when the fruit filling is visibly bubbling lusciously around the edges and the topping has turned a beautiful golden-brown and appears wonderfully crispy.
• 7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the crumble cool for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This crucial resting period allows the hot fruit juices to settle and thicken. Serve warm, ideally with a generous scoop of your favorite vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience. Enjoy!

Category: Dessert