Italian Peach Summer Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Italian Peach Summer Cookies are a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The juicy, tender peaches add a burst of natural sweetness, while the soft, buttery dough holds everything together. The hint of vanilla rounds out the flavor profile, making each bite irresistible. They’re simple to make, requiring just 35 minutes from start to finish, and are an ideal way to enjoy fresh peaches during the summer months. Whether you’re baking for a picnic, a casual dessert, or a special occasion, these cookies are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup fresh peaches, peeled and diced

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Substitution Suggestions:

• Butter: Use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

• Peaches: Substitute with nectarines or apricots if peaches are out of season.

• Sugar: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.

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

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

5. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

6. Fold in Peaches: Gently fold in the diced fresh peaches, being careful not to break them up too much.

7. Scoop and Bake: Drop rounded balls of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges.

8. Cool and Dust: Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, dust them with powdered sugar.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 18-20 cookies

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy note that complements the peaches.

• Nutty Add-ins: Try adding chopped pecans or almonds for extra texture and a nutty flavor that pairs well with peaches.

• Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

• Reheating: To refresh the cookies, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?

Fresh peaches are preferred for this recipe, but you can use frozen peaches. Make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the dough.

2. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Allow the dough to come to room temperature before scooping and baking.

3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough. Scoop the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

4. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough for 10-15 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking and prevents them from spreading too thin.

5. Can I make these cookies without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg or other egg replacer if you’re following a vegan or egg-free diet.

6. How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden brown, and the center is firm to the touch.

7. Can I use a different type of fruit?

Yes! You can substitute peaches with nectarines, apricots, or even berries for a different flavor. Just make sure to adjust the amount of fruit based on the size and juiciness.

8. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

You can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind that it will affect the texture and flavor of the cookies. Consider using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup as a substitute.

9. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works cup-for-cup with regular flour.

10. How can I make these cookies more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients or a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough.

Conclusion

Italian Peach Summer Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer in every bite. With a tender, buttery texture and the natural sweetness of fresh peaches, these cookies are the perfect way to showcase seasonal fruit. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea or as a sweet ending to a summer meal, these cookies are a must-try for peach lovers. Easy to make and full of flavor, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your cookie repertoire.