Dry peaches are a game changer and can add texture and flavor to so many dishes. Dried fruits, including dried peaches, are popular for their convenience, versatility, and nutritional benefits, making them a great addition to your pantry. White peaches, known for their unique sweetness, are an excellent variety to use for drying and bring a distinct flavor to recipes. Whether you’re a pro or a home cook looking to get creative, you’ll find these dry peaches recipes easy and fun to make. In this post, we’ll be sharing 7 recipes that showcase the awesomeness of dry peaches, from breakfast to dinner to dessert. Let’s get into dry peaches recipes and see how you can eat dried peaches as a snack or use this amazing fruit in your meals.
Introduction to Dried Peaches
Dried peaches, often called dry peaches, are a sweet and chewy treat that brings the taste of summer to your kitchen all year long. Made by dehydrating fresh peaches in a food dehydrator or oven, these golden slices are packed with flavor and have an impressive shelf life, making them a pantry staple for snack lovers and home cooks alike. Dried peaches are incredibly versatile—they can be tossed into yogurt, layered over vanilla ice cream, or baked into your favorite recipes for a burst of fruity goodness. Whether you’re looking to add a chewy texture to baked goods or simply enjoy a wholesome snack, dried peaches are a delicious way to enjoy the essence of fresh peaches any time you like.
Health Benefits of Dried Peaches
Dried fruits like peaches and plums aren’t just tasty—they’re also a powerhouse of nutrition. These fruits are rich in vitamin C, which supports your immune system and helps your body absorb iron. They also provide potassium for heart health and fiber to keep your digestion on track. With their low calorie and fat content, dried peaches make a smart snack choice for anyone watching their nutrition serving. Plus, they’re loaded with antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage, and they contain quercetin, a natural compound known for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Adding dried peaches to your diet is a simple and delicious way to boost your intake of essential vitamins and minerals.
Dehydrating Peaches: A Simple Guide
Dehydrating peaches at home is easier than you might think, and it’s a great way to preserve the flavor of fresh peaches for months to come. Start by washing your peaches thoroughly to remove peach fuzz and slicing them into thinner slices, removing the pits with a paring knife. Choosing ripe freestone peaches makes dehydration easier because the flesh separates from the pit better. Arrange the peach slices in a single layer on dehydrator trays or on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper if you’re using an oven. For a food dehydrator, set the temperature to 135°F and let the peaches dry for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even drying. If you’re using an oven, set it to the lowest temperature (around 150°F) and bake for 3-4 hours, checking and stirring occasionally. Once the slices are dry and chewy, let them cool completely before storing. Homemade dried peaches are perfect for snacking, baking, or adding to your favorite foods.
Storing and Using Dried Peaches
To keep your dried peaches fresh and flavorful, store them in an airtight container or a paper bag in a cool dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Thanks to their long shelf life, you can enjoy them for weeks or even months. Conditioning involves shaking the jar daily to check for moisture in the dried peaches. When you’re ready to use them, dried peaches can be enjoyed straight from the jar as a snack, or rehydrated by soaking in cold water or a splash of lemon juice for a few hours to plump them up. They’re a fantastic addition to oatmeal, yogurt, or vanilla ice cream, and can be used in delicious recipes like peach jam, peach chips, or as a topping for pancakes and waffles. With their sweet flavor and chewy texture, dried peaches are a must-have for anyone who loves to experiment in the kitchen.
1. Dried Peaches and Almond Granola
Begin your day with a flavor bomb by adding dry peaches to your homemade granola. This recipe combines the sweetness of dry peaches with the crunch of almonds and the wholesomeness of oats.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups oats
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- 1 cup chopped dry peaches
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the oats, almonds, chopped dry peaches, cinnamon and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey or maple syrup, coconut oil and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix until everything is coated. Stir well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Spread the mixture out on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown.
- Let the granola cool completely before storing, ensuring it is fully cooled for best texture and freshness.
2. Dry Peach and Chicken Salad
This salad is a sweet and savory combination of dry peaches and grilled chicken. Perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup grilled chicken breast, sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped dry peaches
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced grilled chicken, chopped dry peaches, feta cheese, pecans, and red onion.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss to combine.
- Serve and enjoy!
3. Dry Peach and Quinoa Pilaf
This quinoa pilaf is nutritious and delicious with dry peaches. Good as a side or light main.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup chopped dry peaches
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Once the broth is boiling, add the quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the broth is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped dry peaches, green onions, parsley and toasted pine nuts.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
4. Dry Peach and Ricotta Stuffed French Toast
Treat yourself to this decadent breakfast or brunch where creamy ricotta and sweet dry peaches are stuffed into thick slices of French toast.
Ingredients:
- 8 slices of brioche or challah bread
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped dry peaches
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Butter, for cooking
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese and chopped dry peaches.
- Spread the ricotta mixture onto 4 slices of bread and top with the remaining slices to form sandwiches.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon.
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter.
- Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, coating both sides.
- Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the French toast is golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve with maple syrup and enjoy the creamy filling and sweet dry peaches.
5. Dry Peach and Pecan Cookies
Good as a sweet treat or snack. Dry peaches and pecans are a unique and delicious combination.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped dry peaches (chopping dried peaches into smaller pieces ensures even distribution throughout recipes like cookies and pastries; dried peaches intensify their flavor and become tender when baked in cookies or other treats)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Note: Raisins are a classic ingredient in cookies and can be substituted for or combined with dry peaches for a different flavor profile. Dried peaches can also be used to create oatmeal cookies that feature a unique floral flavor.
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until combined.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped dry peaches and pecans.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Dry Peach and Goat Cheese Crostini
Perfect as an appetizer for any occasion. Goat cheese and dry peaches are a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chopped dry peaches
- 2 tbsp honey
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden and crisp.
- Spread a generous amount of goat cheese on each crostini.
- Top with chopped dry peaches and drizzle with honey.
- Garnish with fresh thyme and serve.
7. Dry Peach and Prosciutto Pizza
Gourmet pizza with sweet dry peaches, salty prosciutto, and creamy mozzarella. A twist on a classic.
Ingredients:
- 1 pizza dough, homemade or store-bought
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped dry peaches
- 4-6 slices prosciutto, torn into pieces
Dry peaches truly shine in their versatility and delicious flavor, making them an exceptional ingredient to elevate a wide range of dishes. From the crunch of Dry Peach and Almond Granola to the indulgence of Dry Peach and Ricotta Stuffed French Toast, these recipes highlight how wonderfully dry peaches can transform everyday meals into memorable culinary experiences.
We hope these recipes inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and experiment with dry peaches in new and exciting ways. Whether you’re preparing a hearty breakfast, a refreshing salad, or a sophisticated appetizer, dry peaches add a unique touch that is both flavorful and nutritious.
We encourage you to try these dry peaches recipes and discover the joy of cooking with this fantastic fruit. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and any feedback in the comments section below. We’d love to hear about your experiences and any new recipes you come up with. Happy cooking!
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