This Easy Nectarine Crisp is a warm, fruity treat topped with a crunchy cinnamon oat streusel. It’s a delightful way to enjoy ripe nectarines, and it’s super simple to whip up!
Honestly, the combination of sweet nectarines and crunchy topping makes it hard to resist. I love having it with a scoop of ice cream on top—it’s like a hug in a bowl! 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Nectarines: These juicy fruits are the star here! Ripe nectarines provide sweetness and flavor. If you can’t find nectarines, peaches work wonderfully as a substitute.
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness to the fruit. For a healthier option, try using coconut sugar or maple syrup, keeping in mind these can change the flavor slightly.
Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are ideal for the topping because they create great texture. Quick oats can be used, but they’ll make a softer topping. For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free oats.
Cornstarch: This ingredient helps thicken the fruity filling. If you don’t have it, you could use arrowroot powder or omit it if you prefer a saucier crisp.
Butter: Cold unsalted butter gives the streusel a nice crumbly texture. For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crisp Topping?
The streusel topping is crucial for this recipe, and making it well can take your nectarines to the next level. Here’s how to get that perfect crumbly topping:
- Use cold butter! This helps create a flakier texture. Cut the butter into small pieces and work quickly so it stays cold.
- Mix until crumbly. When combining the butter with the dry ingredients, you want a texture that resembles coarse crumbs, not a smooth dough.
- If you like it extra crunchy, consider adding some chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel—just make sure to watch your baking time as nuts can brown faster.
- Don’t skip baking time! Ensure it bakes until golden brown; this means the topping will develop a lovely crunch.
Easy Nectarine Crisp with Cinnamon Oat Streusel
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Nectarine Filling:
- 5-6 ripe nectarines, sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For the Cinnamon Oat Streusel Topping:
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts), optional
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful crisp will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then 35-40 minutes to bake. In total, you can expect it to be ready in around an hour—perfect for a warm dessert any time of the year!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a medium baking dish or individual ramekins with a little butter or oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Nectarine Filling:
In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced nectarines, granulated sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and cornstarch (if using). Make sure the nectarines are well-coated with the mixture. Once mixed, transfer the fruit into your prepared baking dish.
3. Make the Cinnamon Oat Streusel Topping:
In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Then, add the cold butter pieces into the oat mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—this will give you that perfect crunchy topping!
4. Combine and Sprinkle:
If you’re adding nuts, stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts at this stage. Now, evenly sprinkle the streusel topping over the nectarines in the baking dish. Make sure to cover the fruit well for that delicious crispy topping!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown topping and bubbly fruit filling.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the crisp from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serve warm, and for an extra treat, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Enjoy your Easy Nectarine Crisp with the sweet and crunchy cinnamon oat streusel topping! It’s a delightful dessert that everyone will love!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Nectarines?
Absolutely! Peaches, plums, or even apples would work wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure the fruits are ripe for the best flavor!
Is It Possible to Make This Crisp Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use certified gluten-free oats in the topping. Check that the other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I Prepare the Nectarine Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the nectarines and mix them with the sugar and spices a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake the crisp.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover crisp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
