Bourbon-Glazed Peach Shortcake Skillet

There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of juicy, ripe peaches and a tender, buttery shortcake, especially when given a sophisticated twist with a bourbon glaze. This Bourbon-Glazed Peach Shortcake Skillet is the perfect dessert or sweet treat for any occasion. It brings together the natural sweetness of peaches, the warm depth of bourbon, and the fluffy, cinnamon-kissed shortcake baked right in a skillet. Finished with a cloud of lightly sweetened whipped cream and an optional crispy turkey bacon garnish, this dish balances sweet and savory in the most delightful way. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge in a luscious homemade dessert, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your repertoire.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Bourbon-Glazed Peach Shortcake Skillet is a standout because it combines layers of flavor and textures in one beautiful, rustic presentation. The glaze is a luscious mix of brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and bourbon, which enhances the peaches’ natural sweetness with a hint of tang and warmth. Baking the shortcake right in the skillet means every bite is infused with the caramelized juices of the peaches, creating a mouthwatering experience.

The addition of ground cinnamon in the shortcake batter adds a cozy spice that perfectly complements the fruit and glaze. And topping it all off with freshly whipped cream flavored with almond extract adds a creamy, nutty contrast that elevates the dish even further. For those who love a touch of savory with their sweets, the optional turkey bacon garnish adds an unexpected crunch and smoky flavor without overpowering the peaches.

If you’re a fan of fruit desserts like the Honey Roasted Peach Crostini With Thyme, this skillet shortcake is a fresh and indulgent way to celebrate peach season.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• Turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional, for garnish)

How To Make Bourbon-Glazed Peach Shortcake Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Bourbon Peach Glaze

In a large oven-safe skillet, combine the sliced peaches, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, vanilla extract, and a splash (about 2 tablespoons) of bourbon. Stir gently to coat the peaches evenly. Turn the heat to medium and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the peaches start to soften and the sugar dissolves into a syrupy glaze. Set the skillet aside while you prepare the shortcake batter.

Step 2: Make the Shortcake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Add the softened butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly pour in the milk while gently stirring until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this will toughen the shortcake.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the shortcake batter evenly over the glazed peaches in the skillet, spreading it out gently with a spatula. The batter will be thick and rustic-looking. Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the shortcake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Cream

While the shortcake is baking, pour the heavy cream into a chilled bowl. Add the powdered sugar and almond extract. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to whip the cream until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat; you want the cream to be light and fluffy.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Spoon generous portions of the Bourbon-Glazed Peach Shortcake directly from the skillet onto plates. Top with a dollop of the almond whipped cream and sprinkle with crumbled turkey bacon if using. The contrast of sweet peaches, warm shortcake, creamy topping, and crispy bacon is truly irresistible.

Expert Tips

• Use ripe but firm peaches to ensure they hold their shape during cooking and baking.
• For a deeper bourbon flavor, add an extra tablespoon of bourbon to the glaze, but be cautious if serving to children or those avoiding alcohol.
• Make sure your butter is softened but not melted when mixing into the dry ingredients to get a tender, flaky shortcake texture.
• Keeping your mixing bowl and beaters chilled can help you achieve perfectly whipped cream every time.
• If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the peach mixture to a baking dish before adding the shortcake batter.
• For an added layer of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg into the shortcake batter along with the cinnamon.

Variations and Customizations

• Fruit swaps: Use nectarines or plums instead of peaches for a different but equally delicious fruit base.
• Glaze alternatives: Substitute the balsamic vinegar with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a slightly different tang.
• Nutty twist: Add toasted sliced almonds or chopped pecans to the shortcake batter or sprinkle on top before baking.
• Dairy-free option: Use coconut cream for whipping and a plant-based milk in the shortcake batter to make this recipe dairy-free.
• Sweetener swaps: Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup in the glaze for a different sweetness profile.
• Skip the bacon: Leave out the turkey bacon for a purely sweet dessert or try a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for texture.

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftovers, cover the skillet tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the shortcake to an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds to warm the shortcake and peaches slightly. Whip fresh cream or use your leftover whipped cream if still good. Note that the shortcake texture is best on day one but still delicious when reheated.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe without bourbon?

Absolutely! If you prefer to avoid alcohol, simply omit the bourbon from the glaze. The peaches will still be delicious with the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar creating a rich, flavorful syrup.

What type of skillet is best for this recipe?

An oven-safe cast iron skillet works best because it distributes heat evenly and can go from stovetop to oven seamlessly. If you don’t have one, use any oven-safe baking dish.

How do I know when the shortcake is done?

The shortcake should be golden brown on top and a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the bourbon-glazed peaches a day ahead and refrigerate them. Just bring them to room temperature before adding the shortcake batter and baking. Whip the cream just before serving for the best texture.

Conclusion

The Bourbon-Glazed Peach Shortcake Skillet is a luscious, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines the best of summer fruit with the warmth of a bourbon-infused glaze and a tender, cinnamon-spiced shortcake. The layering of flavors and textures—from juicy peaches to creamy whipped topping and optional savory bacon—makes this recipe a standout treat you’ll want to come back to time and again. Perfect for casual family dinners or special gatherings, it’s an easy yet elegant way to celebrate fresh peaches. Try this recipe alongside other peach-inspired treats for a full seasonal spread that everyone will love.

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