Sweet, saucy, and so simple, this peach compote is the perfect way to dress up all your favorite summer desserts.
Peach compote is one of my favorite warm-weather toppings. It comes together in minutes, and it’s endlessly useful. Spoon it over cake, yogurt, ice cream, or anything else that needs a pop of juicy, summery flavor. I especially love it with a slice of buttery pound cake. Whether you serve it warm or chilled, this simple recipe lets ripe peaches shine.
Why You’ll Love This Peach Compote
- Fast and easy. Just a few ingredients and 10 minutes on the stove.
- Full of summer flavor. Peaches shine here with just enough sugar to bring out their best.
- Versatile. Spoon it over pound cake, ice cream, cheesecake, pancakes… you name it!
- Great warm or cold. Serve it straight from the pan or chill it for later.
What You’ll Need
Here’s a look at the simple ingredients that make this compote work:
- Peaches – Fresh, ripe peaches bring the best flavor. Peeled and chopped.
- Sugar – Just enough to enhance the peaches’ natural sweetness.
- Lemon juice – Brightens things up and helps balance the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract – Optional, but adds a warm background note.
- Salt – A small pinch brings out all the other flavors.
You’ll find the full recipe at the bottom of the post.
Can I Use Frozen Peaches?
Yes! No need to thaw. Just add them to the pan and increase the cooking time slightly. The texture may be a little softer and the mixture more saucy, but it’ll still be delicious.
How to Make Peach Compote
Let the peaches macerate. Combine peaches, sugar, lemon juice, and salt in a saucepan. Let them sit for 5–10 minutes to draw out the juices.
Simmer. Cook over medium heat until the peaches soften and the juices thicken slightly, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Finish with vanilla. Stir it in after removing from the heat, if you’re using it.
Cool or serve. You can serve it warm, at room temp, or chilled. Whatever works with what you’re pairing it with.
Tips for Success
- Use ripe peaches for the best flavor and texture. Underripe peaches won’t break down as well.
- Cut the peaches to your liking. Chop them small for a smoother compote or larger for more texture.
- Taste and adjust the sugar if your peaches are very sweet or tart.
- Adjust the texture if you like. This recipe makes a slightly chunky compote with pieces of soft peach throughout. For a smoother version, you can mash some of the peaches as they cook or simmer the mixture a few extra minutes to break them down more. If you’d like even more texture, cut the peaches into larger pieces and reduce the cooking time slightly.
Variations
This compote is delicious just as it is, but here are a few easy ways to change it up:
- Add warm spices. A pinch of cinnamon, ginger, or cardamom adds cozy flavor that’s great for late summer or early fall.
- Brighten it up. Stir in a little lemon zest for extra freshness.
- Boozy twist. A splash of bourbon or rum adds depth and richness.
- Vanilla variation. Swap the extract for almond extract for something a little different, or skip it altogether for a cleaner fruit flavor.
- Sweeten with honey. Replace part of the sugar with honey for a softer, floral sweetness.
Ways to Use Peach Compote
This compote is incredibly versatile! Use it anywhere you want a burst of summer flavor. Here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy it:
- Over pound cake, angel food cake, or vanilla cake
- With pancakes, waffles, or French toast
- Swirled into yogurt or spooned over oatmeal
- Paired with vanilla ice cream or cheesecake
- As a topping for pavlova or shortcake
How to Store
Store the compote in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir before serving.
A Perfect Summer Pairing
When peaches are in season, this easy peach compote recipe is one of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy them. Whether you serve it warm over ice cream, swirl it into yogurt, or spoon it onto cake or pancakes, it adds a bright, fruity touch to all kinds of summer treats. Keep a jar in the fridge and you’ll always have something sweet ready to go!
More Summer Toppings to Try
Peach Compote
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and chopped (about 4–5 medium peaches)
- 1/3 cup (67 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice
- pinch salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional
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Instructions
- Combine the peaches, sugar, lemon juice, and salt in a medium saucepan. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to draw out the juices.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes, or until the peaches are softened and the juices are slightly thickened. For a saucier compote, cook a bit longer.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, if using.
- Cool slightly before serving warm, or chill completely for a cold topping.
Notes
- Frozen peaches: You can use frozen peaches instead of fresh. No need to thaw, just add them to the saucepan and increase the cooking time slightly.
- Texture tips: For a smoother compote, mash some of the peaches while cooking or simmer a bit longer. For more texture, use larger peach pieces and shorten the cook time slightly.
- Simple variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon, ginger, or cardamom for a spiced version. A bit of lemon zest or a splash of bourbon can also add a fun twist.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months.
