
Sweet juicy air fryer peaches are one of my summer favorites for turning ripe fruit into an easy dessert or snack The texture is soft and caramelized on top and they remind me of those late August evenings when the grill is put away but I still want that deep roasted peach flavor They go perfectly with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of yogurt and come together in just fifteen minutes
The first time I tried this I was looking for a way to use up a basket of ripe peaches and ended up making a batch every week after that My kids say they taste like a scoop of summer and always ask for seconds
Ingredients
- Peaches: Look for ripe but firm peaches with a slight give when you press the skin The best flavor comes from fruit that is just shy of overripe
- Butter: Use unsalted melted butter for a richer taste and to help the sugar and cinnamon stick If your butter smells sweet and fresh it is perfect
- Brown sugar: Choose soft moist brown sugar for a deep caramel flavor Light or dark brown both work
- Cinnamon: Using ground cinnamon adds warmth and a hint of spice I like to choose Saigon cinnamon for extra aroma
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Peaches:
- Wash the peaches and pat dry Carefully slice each peach in half around the pit then twist gently to separate and remove the pit with a spoon
- Butter the Halves:
- With peaches cut side up use a pastry brush to coat each half generously with melted butter Try to cover the whole surface to prevent drying
- Mix and Sprinkle Sugar and Spice:
- In a small bowl stir together brown sugar and cinnamon until you see no streaks Evenly spoon or sprinkle the mixture over each buttered peach half making sure the tops are nicely covered
- Arrange in Air Fryer:
- Line your air fryer basket with parchment paper if you prefer to catch the drips Arrange the peach halves in one even layer cut side up so air can circulate
- Air Fry Until Caramelized:
- Set air fryer to three hundred ninety degrees Fahrenheit and cook the peaches for ten minutes They should look golden brown and slightly bubbly on top Add another one or two minutes if you want a deeper caramel color
- Serve Warm:
- Lift the peaches from the basket with a spatula and serve right away with a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream or your favorite topping

My favorite part is always the rich syrup that forms at the bottom of the air fryer I remember my grandmother broiling peaches in the oven and sharing them warm with a simple splash of cream For me that sweet aroma brings back childhood every time
Storage Tips
Leftover air fryer peaches can be cooled and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat in the microwave for thirty seconds or pop back in the air fryer for two minutes to refresh the caramelization
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of butter you can use coconut oil or even a plant-based spread Maple sugar or coconut sugar works in place of brown sugar For a different spice try nutmeg instead of cinnamon or use a blend of both
Serving Suggestions
I love to set out bowls of chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for a bit of crunch Top with granola or graham cracker crumbs for a breakfast touch For a lighter dessert go with vanilla yogurt and a drizzle of honey

A Bit of Peach History
Roasted peaches have roots in southern kitchens where slow cooking the fruit is a tradition During summer peach season this recipe lets you skip the oven heat but still brings that old-fashioned roasted taste to the table
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use canned or frozen peaches?
Fresh, firm peaches work best for air frying. Canned or frozen may become too soft and watery, but can be used if well-drained and patted dry.
- → Should peaches be peeled before cooking?
Peeling isn't necessary. The skin holds the peach halves together during cooking and adds texture; simply halve and remove the pit.
- → How can I serve air-fried peaches?
They are delicious topped with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, whipped cream, chopped nuts, or granola for added crunch and flavor.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, store cooked peaches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave until warm.
- → What spices work well with peaches?
Cinnamon is a classic match, but nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom can also add a lovely aromatic note to the dish.