Name: Peaches with Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 fresh ripe peaches; 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest; 6 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided; 1 ¼ cups cold heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Optional garnishes: extra lemon zest, cinnamon, vanilla wafers

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This simple and elegant dessert features fresh, ripe peaches with lightly sweetened whipped cream. Infused with lemon zest and vanilla, it’s refreshing, creamy, and effortless to make. Served chilled, this treat highlights the natural sweetness of summer peaches and makes a beautiful finish to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is as easy as it is delicious. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, it lets the flavor of fresh peaches shine. The lemon zest adds brightness, the vanilla-scented cream brings richness, and the light texture keeps it refreshing—not heavy. It’s a no-bake dessert that’s perfect for warm weather, dinner parties, or anytime you want something sweet and satisfying without turning on the oven.

Peaches with Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 fresh ripe peaches
1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
6 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
1 ¼ cups cold heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Optional garnishes: Extra lemon zest, cinnamon, vanilla wafers

Directions

Cut the peaches into ½-inch wedges and gently peel off the skins.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the peach slices, lemon zest, 5 tablespoons of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and set aside to macerate.
In a separate bowl, pour in the cold heavy cream. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar and the vanilla extract.
Using a hand mixer with the whip attachment, whip the cream until fluffy but still pourable—do not over-whip.
Prepare 4 large or 6 small serving cups (glass ramekins or ice cream pedestal glasses work well).
Spoon the peaches evenly into each cup, including the juices.
Top each with a generous spoonful of the lightly whipped cream. Gently tap the cups to let the cream settle in between the peaches.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 2 days.
Before serving, remove the plastic and garnish with lemon zest, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a vanilla wafer.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 large or 6 small servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour (minimum)
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Berries: Add sliced strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a colorful fruit medley.
Boozy twist: Add a splash of peach liqueur or amaretto to the peaches before chilling.
Cream alternative: Use mascarpone whipped with cream or coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free option.
Crunchy element: Add crushed vanilla wafers or biscotti on top for texture.
Herbal accent: A few chopped mint leaves can add a fresh herbal note.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze, as the whipped cream will separate and the peaches will lose texture.

Reheating:
No reheating needed—this dessert is best served chilled.

FAQs

Can I use canned or frozen peaches?

Fresh peaches work best for flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain first. Canned peaches should be drained and patted dry.

Can I peel the peaches easily?

If the skin doesn’t come off easily, blanch the peaches in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath. The skins should peel off effortlessly.

Can I make the whipped cream firmer?

Yes, simply whip the cream a bit longer until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip into stiff peaks or butter.

Is this dessert sweet?

It’s mildly sweet, relying on the natural sugars in the peaches and a small amount of added sugar for balance.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use canned coconut cream or a store-bought dairy-free whipped topping.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. This dessert holds up well in the fridge for up to 2 days, making it a perfect make-ahead option.

What type of vanilla should I use?

Pure vanilla extract is best, but vanilla bean paste or the seeds from a vanilla pod would also add beautiful flavor.

What if my peaches aren’t very ripe?

Let them ripen at room temperature in a paper bag for a day or two. Slightly underripe peaches can be macerated longer to soften and sweeten them.

Can I use lemon juice instead of zest?

Zest provides more fragrant lemon flavor without adding acidity. A tiny splash of juice can be used, but too much may make the cream watery.

Can I serve this with cake or cookies?

Yes! Serve alongside shortbread cookies, pound cake, or crumbled graham crackers for added texture and richness.

Conclusion

This Peaches with Lightly Whipped Cream recipe is a celebration of fresh fruit and simple ingredients. Elegant yet easy, it’s a chilled, no-fuss dessert that delivers bright flavor and creamy satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re entertaining or treating yourself to something sweet, this is the kind of recipe you’ll want to make all summer long.