I first came across Mary Berry’s Baked Peaches with Marsala and Almonds on a quiet Sunday afternoon, flipping through one of her cookbooks while waiting for my afternoon tea. The way she pairs simple ingredients with classic techniques always grabs my attention. There’s something comforting about the combination of tender, juicy peaches with the rich flavor of Marsala wine and the crunch of toasted almonds. I was hooked from the first bite.
The dish is elegant yet easy to make, a perfect dessert for when you want to impress guests or treat yourself to something special. It’s got that balance of warmth and sweetness, with a touch of sophistication. And, since it’s baked, it fills the house with the most wonderful aromas.
Now, let me take you through this recipe. It’s a true winner for anyone who loves the flavors of fruit, nuts, and a splash of wine.
Mary Berry Baked Peaches With Marsala And Almonds Recipe
This recipe might sound fancy but trust me-it’s incredibly simple. Mary Berry’s approach to baking is always about maximizing flavors while keeping things straightforward. The peaches are baked until soft, bathed in a delicious Marsala sauce, and then topped with toasted almonds for some added texture.
If you’re a fan of fruity desserts that feel both homey and elegant, you’ll love this one. The peaches are the star of the dish, but the Marsala adds a depth of flavor that transforms them into something extraordinary.
Ingredients Needed
The ingredients list is short, but don’t let that fool you. Each one brings its own magic to the table.
- Ripe peaches – You’ll want to go for ripe but firm peaches. They need to hold up during baking without turning mushy.
- Marsala wine – This fortified wine gives the dish its signature flavor. It’s rich, slightly sweet, and has a lovely depth that complements the fruit.
- Almonds – Sliced or flaked almonds are ideal for this recipe. They’ll be toasted to bring out their natural oils and enhance their nutty flavor.
- Butter – A little butter helps the peaches soften and caramelize during baking.
- Sugar – Just a bit of sugar to sweeten the peaches. The Marsala wine also adds sweetness, so you don’t need much.
- Cinnamon (optional) – A pinch of cinnamon is a nice touch, though it’s optional. It gives a slight warmth that blends beautifully with the Marsala.
Equipment Needed
This is the kind of dessert that doesn’t require any fancy tools. It’s all about simple, essential equipment.
- Baking dish – A medium-sized ovenproof dish works best. It should fit the peaches snugly without crowding them.
- Sharp knife – For cutting the peaches in half and removing the pits.
- Toasting pan – A small frying pan for toasting the almonds. This can also be done in the oven, but the pan gives you a little more control.
- Oven – You’ll need it for baking the peaches until tender and caramelized.
How To Make Mary Berry Baked Peaches With Marsala And Almonds?
I’ll walk you through this step-by-step. It’s such a straightforward process, but the results are always impressive.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). You want it nice and hot for the peaches to bake evenly.
- Prepare the peaches – Slice the peaches in half and remove the pits. You can peel them if you prefer, but I like leaving the skin on for texture.
- Arrange the peaches – Place the peach halves cut-side up in your baking dish. Pour a little melted butter over the top of each half. This helps them caramelize in the oven.
- Add the Marsala – Drizzle the Marsala wine over the peaches. It’s a simple but impactful step. The wine will create a beautiful sauce as it bakes.
- Sprinkle sugar (and cinnamon, if using) – A light dusting of sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the peaches. If you’re using cinnamon, add it here.
- Bake – Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until the peaches are soft but still holding their shape.
- Toast the almonds – While the peaches are baking, toast the almonds in a dry pan over medium heat. Stir them occasionally until they’re golden brown. Watch them closely, as they burn quickly!
- Serve – Once the peaches are done, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the top and serve immediately. The sauce from the Marsala will pool around the peaches, creating a beautiful, sweet, and slightly boozy glaze.
Recipe Variations
While the recipe is delicious as it is, here are a few ideas for switching things up:
- Different fruits – If peaches aren’t in season, you can swap them out for nectarines, plums, or even pears. The Marsala sauce will complement a wide range of fruits.
- Add a splash of vanilla – A few drops of vanilla extract in the Marsala sauce can add a lovely, aromatic undertone.
- Nut variations – Try using walnuts or hazelnuts instead of almonds for a different texture and flavor. Walnuts, in particular, add a nice earthiness that balances the sweetness of the peaches.
- Top with whipped cream – For an extra indulgence, a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm peaches.
What Goes Well With Mary Berry Baked Peaches With Marsala And Almonds?
This dessert is perfect on its own, but if you want to make it part of a larger meal, here are a few ideas:
- Cheese – A sharp, creamy cheese like Brie or goat cheese complements the sweetness of the peaches beautifully. Serve this with a cheese platter before dessert.
- Wine – If you’re enjoying this as a dinner party dessert, a glass of Marsala or a light dessert wine like Moscato would pair perfectly.
- Light salad – A simple, lightly dressed green salad can help cut through the richness of the dessert.
- Coffee or tea – A cup of rich coffee or Earl Grey tea can balance the sweetness of the dish and offer a nice ending to the meal.
What I Have Learnt
Through making Mary Berry’s Baked Peaches with Marsala and Almonds, I’ve learned that sometimes the simplest dishes are the most rewarding. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques to create something that feels special. The key is using fresh, quality ingredients and allowing them to shine. Peaches, Marsala, and almonds might seem like an unlikely trio, but they come together in a way that feels both timeless and modern.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Baked Peaches With Marsala And Almonds Recipe?
The main ingredients in this recipe include ripe peaches, Marsala wine, ground almonds, flaked almonds, butter, sugar, and a little lemon juice. The Marsala wine adds a rich, sweet depth of flavor to the peaches, while the almonds provide a delightful texture contrast.
Can I Use A Substitute For Marsala Wine In This Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute Marsala wine with other sweet wines like Madeira, Sherry, or Port. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can use a mixture of white grape juice and a splash of vanilla extract to replicate the sweetness and depth of Marsala.
How Long Does It Take To Bake The Peaches In This Recipe?
The peaches are baked for about 20-25 minutes at 180°C (350°F), or until they are tender and golden. The exact time may vary depending on the size and ripeness of the peaches, so it’s a good idea to check for softness before removing them from the oven.