Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 200°C conventional / 180°C fan. Wash and dry the peach.
- Cut the peach in half around the stone. Gently twist the halves apart and remove the stone. If it does not release easily, carefully cut the flesh away from it in large pieces instead.
- Place the peach halves cut-side up in a small ovenproof dish. Roast for approximately 15–20 minutes, until the flesh is tender when pierced with a knife and the edges are beginning to colour. Firm peaches may need longer.
- Meanwhile, melt the coconut oil in a small frying pan over medium-low heat. Add the oats and chopped nuts.
- Toast for about 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the oats are lightly golden and the nuts smell toasted. Reduce the heat if they colour too quickly. Transfer to a plate and allow to cool slightly so the topping becomes crisp.
- Place one warm peach half on each dessert plate. Spoon over the oat and nut topping and drizzle each portion with 1 teaspoon of honey.
- Finish with the optional mint leaves and serve warm.
Notes
Peaches: Choose ripe fruit that still holds its shape. Very soft peaches may collapse, while underripe fruit takes longer to soften. The roasting time is a guide; check tenderness rather than relying on the clock.
Portions: One large peach makes two small desserts. Double the ingredients for two more generous portions, using a baking dish large enough to hold the fruit in a single layer.
Crunch topping: Toast gently and stir frequently, as chopped nuts burn quickly. Cooling the topping briefly helps it crisp. Add it only when serving so the peach juices do not soften it.
Variations: Nectarines can replace the peach, with the roasting time adjusted to their firmness. A small pinch of cinnamon or cardamom can be added to the topping.
Vegan option: Replace the honey with maple or agave syrup.
Nut-free option: Replace the nuts with sunflower or pumpkin seeds, checking labels for cross-contact warnings.
Storage: Refrigerate leftover roasted fruit within two hours and use within 48 hours. Keep the topping separate in a sealed container once completely cool, and use within the same period. Reheat the fruit once until steaming hot throughout, or enjoy chilled.
Honey: Do not give honey to children under 12 months.
Allergens: Contains walnuts or pecans and oats. Use certified gluten-free oats if needed and check all ingredient labels.