The aroma of summer fills the air as I slice into a perfectly ripe peach, its juices spilling and glistening in the sunlight. This Peaches and Cream Dessert, featuring a crunchy pecan shortbread crust and a smooth no-bake cheesecake filling, is my go-to recipe for those warm, lazy afternoons when the thought of turning on the oven feels daunting. It’s light, fruity, and refreshingly easy to whip up, making it an ideal treat for summer gatherings or even just a little self-indulgence. With minimal prep time and a delightful blend of creamy and crunchy textures, this dessert is sure to impress family and friends alike. Who can resist a dessert that celebrates fresh produce and effortless elegance? Let’s dive into crafting this delightful summer staple! Why is this dessert a summer favorite? Light and Fruity: The Peaches and Cream Dessert embodies the essence of summer with its refreshing flavors and vibrant colors. No-Bake Convenience: Perfect for those balmy days, it requires no baking, making preparation a breeze. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Impress your guests with this gorgeous layered treat, ideal for potlucks or family gatherings. Versatile Options: Feel free to switch up the fruits or experiment with different extracts for a personal touch. Easy Prep Time: With minimal ingredients, you’ll have a show-stopping dessert ready in no time! Don’t forget to try it alongside other refreshing recipes like Cream Cheese Chicken or Cajun Shrimp Sauce for a complete summer meal! Peaches and Cream Dessert Ingredients For the Peach Layer • Fresh Peaches – Essential for the fruit layer; about 5 large or 7 small peaches (2 ½ lbs) will yield a juicy topping. • Granulated Sugar – Typically 1 cup (200 g) to sweeten the peaches; reduce if using canned peaches. • Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon adds brightness and acidity; fresh juice brings out the best flavor. • Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons are used for thickening the peach juice mixture; instant tapioca can be a good alternative. • Unflavored Gelatin – A 0.25 oz (7 g) packet stabilizes the layer; you can use peach gelatin instead (reduce sugar by ¼ cup). • Almond Extract – Use ¼ to ½ teaspoon to enhance the peach flavor; vanilla extract can be a perfect substitute. • Salt – Just a pinch to balance all the flavors. For the Crust • Pecan Shortbread Cookies – About 11.3 oz (320 g) forms a delicious, crunchy crust; any similar cookie can work in place. • Butter – 6 tablespoons (85 g) to bind the crust; melted butter should be used carefully to avoid excess moisture. For the Cheesecake Layer • Cream Cheese – 8 oz (226 g) softened, forms the base of the cheesecake layer; Neufchâtel can be used for a lighter option. • Powdered Sugar – 1 cup (120 g) sweetens the cream cheese mix; adjust according to your sweetness preference. • Frozen Whipped Topping – 4 oz (113 g) contributes to creaminess; homemade whipped cream can be a delightful alternative. Perfect for those summer gatherings, this Peaches and Cream Dessert combines a sweet, fruity layer with a rich, creamy base to create an unforgettable treat! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peaches and Cream Dessert Step 1: Prepare Peach Layer Begin by peeling, slicing, and dicing the fresh peaches, about 5 large or 7 small. Toss them gently with 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Let the mixture drain in a colander for 30 minutes, allowing excess juices to escape. This step enhances the peach flavor while preventing a soggy dessert layer. Step 2: Make Crust Crush 11.3 oz of pecan shortbread cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or a rolling pin. Combine the crumbs with 6 tablespoons of melted butter in a mixing bowl, ensuring the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool completely before the next step. Step 3: Prepare Cream Cheese Layer In a large mixing bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 4 oz of thawed frozen whipped topping until fully incorporated, creating a light and fluffy layer. Spread this luscious cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pecan crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for a neat finish. Step 4: Make Peach Topping Measure the peach juice collected during the previous step and pour it into a saucepan. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and the contents of a 0.25 oz packet of unflavored gelatin. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens and becomes clear, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in ¼ to ½ teaspoon of almond extract, and allow the mixture to cool down completely before proceeding. Step 5: Assemble Dessert Once the peach topping has cooled, arrange the diced peaches over the cream cheese layer in a decorative pattern. Carefully pour the cooled juice mixture on top, ensuring the fruit is evenly covered. Gently shake the baking dish to level it out, then cover tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to set the layers perfectly together. Step 6: Serve When ready to serve your Peaches and Cream Dessert, cut it into squares using a sharp knife. If desired, top each square with additional whipped topping for an extra touch of creaminess. This beautiful, layered dessert is sure to impress your guests, bringing a burst of summer flavor to every bite! Peaches and Cream Dessert Variations Feel free to get creative and make this delightful dessert your own with these fun twists and adaptations! Berry Bliss: Swap peaches for blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries for a juicy berry variation that’s equally refreshing. Each bite bursts with flavor and summer sweetness! Gluten-Free Goodness: Use gluten-free pecan shortbread cookies for the crust to ensure everyone can enjoy this treat without worry. It maintains the dessert’s delightful crunch while catering to dietary needs. Coconut Cream: Add a layer of coconut cream on top of the cheesecake filling for a tropical vibe. It pairs beautifully with the peaches and adds an exotic twist to the classic flavor. Nuts About Nuts: Sprinkle additional chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the peaches for a satisfying crunch and added nuttiness. This texture contrast enhances the overall experience for nut lovers! Citrus Zest: For a zesty kick, add grated lemon or orange zest to the cream cheese layer. This brightens up the flavors, complementing the sweetness of the peaches beautifully. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the top before serving for a luscious chocolatey touch. This indulgent addition makes it feel like a special occasion treat! Spicy Heat: For those who enjoy a little kick, mix a pinch of cayenne or chili powder into the peach layer. It adds a surprising and delightful warmth that balances the sweetness. Creamy Yogurt Layer: Replace the whipped topping with a layer of Greek yogurt for a tangy, protein-packed option. It’s a healthier twist that still satisfies the creamy craving! Looking for more delicious inspirations? You might also like making the refreshing Pumpkin Cream Cheese or the comforting Turkey Pasta Peas to enjoy alongside your Peach Delight! What to Serve with Peaches and Cream Dessert? Imagine a garden party where sweet fruits and delightful textures dance on your plate, creating an unforgettable summer feast. Chilled White Wine: A light Sauvignon Blanc enhances the fruity flavors while keeping it refreshing on warm afternoons. Iced Tea: Sweetened or unsweetened, iced tea offers a simple, soothing complement that pairs perfectly with the dessert’s richness. Grilled Chicken Salad: The savory notes from the chicken and fresh greens provide a savory contrast to the sweet, creamy dessert. Berry Compote: A tangy burst of homemade berry compote elevates both flavor and presentation on the plate. Fresh Mint Sprigs: Sprinkle fresh mint on top for a pop of color and cooling freshness that brightens each bite. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside adds an extra layer of indulgence and sweetness for dessert lovers. Light Summer Punch: A fruity punch, perhaps with sparkling water and citrus, rounds out the meal, enhancing that holiday vibe. Homemade Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade beautifully contrasts with the dessert’s sweetness while providing a refreshingly thirst-quenching drink. Fruit Salad: A bowl of mixed berries, melons, and citrus makes for a vibrant, healthful companion that echoes the dessert’s fruity charm. Storage Tips for Peaches and Cream Dessert Fridge: Store your Peaches and Cream Dessert in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s covered tightly with plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Freezer: If you have leftovers, you can freeze the dessert for up to 2 months. However, note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Cut into portions and wrap each piece well to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: No reheating is necessary since this dessert is served chilled. Just allow frozen pieces to thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying. Assembly Tip: If you plan to make this dessert ahead of time, assemble it and refrigerate it the night before your event. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring freshness when ready to serve. Expert Tips for Peaches and Cream Dessert Perfect Peach Selection: Choose ripe, firm peaches for the best flavor and texture; avoid overly soft peaches to prevent mushiness in the dessert. Cream Cheese Advice: Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth, lump-free consistency in your cheesecake filling. Juice Cooling: Allow the peach juice mixture to cool completely before pouring over the fruit layer; this prevents the cream cheese layer from melting and maintains structure. Prevent Soggy Crust: Bake the crust until golden and cool thoroughly before adding layers; this helps maintain a crisp crust that won’t get soggy. Creative Variations: Feel free to substitute the peaches with other summer fruits like berries or nectarines for a new twist on your Peaches and Cream Dessert. Storage Tips: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; keeping it covered helps maintain freshness and flavor. Make Ahead Options These Peaches and Cream Dessert preparations are perfect for busy home cooks seeking to save time! You can prepare the pecan shortbread crust and the cream cheese filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply press the crust into the baking dish and refrigerate it tightly covered, while whisking the filling and placing it over the crust right before serving. The peach layer can also be made ahead; prepare, drain, and refrigerate the peaches with sugar and lemon juice for up to 3 days, ensuring they are covered to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, just follow through with the final assembly by adding the cooled peach topping and refrigerating to set for at least 4 hours. This way, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready with minimal effort on the day of your gathering! Peaches and Cream Dessert Recipe FAQs What type of peaches should I use for this dessert? Absolutely! For the Peaches and Cream Dessert, it’s best to use ripe, firm peaches to ensure they hold their shape and flavor. Look for peaches that have a fragrant aroma and have a slight give when gently pressed. Avoid overly soft peaches, as they can become mushy in the dessert. How should I store leftovers of this dessert? Very good question! You can store your Peaches and Cream Dessert in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Make sure it’s tightly covered with plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container to preserve its freshness and prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge. Can I freeze this dessert for later enjoyment? Absolutely! If you have any leftovers, you can freeze the dessert for up to 2 months. To do this, cut it into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place them in an airtight container to avoid freezer burn, but remember that the texture may slightly change after thawing. What if my crust turns out soggy? Don’t worry! If your crust is soggy, it may be due to the butter being too moist or not baking it long enough. To prevent this, ensure you bake the pecan shortbread crust until it’s golden brown and let it cool completely before adding layers. You can also try using less butter or baking the crust longer, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning. Are there any allergy considerations for this dessert? Yes, definitely! When making Peaches and Cream Dessert, keep in mind potential allergies. This recipe includes dairy and nuts, so if you’re serving guests with allergies, you can use alternatives like dairy-free cream cheese and gluten-free cookies. Always make sure to read labels on products to ensure they meet dietary needs. How do I know when the dessert is ready to serve? Great question! Your Peaches and Cream Dessert should be refrigerated for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This chilling time helps the layers set and meld together beautifully. Once it’s firm, it’s ready to be cut into squares and enjoyed. The visual cue of a glossy top layer with a slight jiggle indicates it’s perfectly set! Peaches and Cream Dessert: Your Summer's Must-Try Treat Experience the refreshing Peaches and Cream Dessert, a perfect summer treat with its light fruit layer and creamy cheesecake filling. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsChilling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 42 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 280 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Peach Layer2.5 lbs Fresh Peaches about 5 large or 7 small peaches1 cup Granulated Sugar reduce if using canned peaches1 tablespoon Lemon Juice fresh juice preferred2 tablespoons Cornstarch can use instant tapioca0.25 oz Unflavored Gelatin 7 g packet0.25-0.5 teaspoon Almond Extract or vanilla extract as substitute1 pinch Salt to balance flavorsFor the Crust11.3 oz Pecan Shortbread Cookies or similar cookie6 tablespoons Butter meltedFor the Cheesecake Layer8 oz Cream Cheese softened, or use Neufchâtel1 cup Powdered Sugar adjust for sweetness4 oz Frozen Whipped Topping thawed Equipment 9x13-inch baking dishmixing bowlfood processorSaucepanspatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPrepare peach layer by peeling, slicing, and dicing the fresh peaches, then tossing gently with sugar and lemon juice. Drain for 30 minutes.Crush pecan shortbread cookies into fine crumbs, mix with melted butter, then press into the baking dish. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes and cool.Beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping, then spread over cooled crust.Whisk peach juice with cornstarch and gelatin in a saucepan, cook until thickened, then cool and stir in almond extract.Arrange diced peaches over the cream cheese layer, pour cooled juice mixture on top, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.Cut into squares to serve. Optionally top with more whipped topping. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 3gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 210mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesStore leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
