Astonishment
A delightful peach dessert with a sweet, fruity flavor and a smooth gelatinous filling, perfect for summer gatherings and those who enjoy fresh, vibrant fruit desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crush 1 generous cup of peaches in a saucepan, extracting as much juice as possible.
- Stir in cornstarch, lemon juice, and sugar; simmer briefly over medium heat until a clear gelatinous mixture forms.
- Let the mixture cool.
- Spread into a pan with a crust base and press it in.
- Press the rest of the peaches into the crust.
- Dust with confectioners sugar and refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg alongside the sugar. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour for the crust. If you don't have cornstarch, arrowroot powder is a great substitute for thickening the peach mixture. Make sure to select ripe peaches for the best flavor and sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled, garnished with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness. This dessert pairs beautifully with Iced Tea And Lemon, making it a refreshing end to any meal. For a fun twist, serve alongside Nanny Rasco'S Easy Fruit Salad(Kelley Jo'S Great Grandmother) for a delightful fruit medley.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you prefer a chilled dessert, the flavors actually develop further after a day in the fridge. To enjoy it warm, reheat in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Astonishment contains roughly 121 calories, with 2g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen peaches can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the mixture. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious.
What can I substitute for sugar if I want to make this healthier?
You can substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener. Keep in mind that these alternatives may alter the consistency slightly, so adjust the cornstarch accordingly to maintain the desired thickness.
How do I know when the peach mixture is ready?
The peach mixture is ready when it thickens and becomes clear after simmering. It should have a gelatinous consistency that holds its shape when cooled. Stir frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).