The Last Taste of Summer: Bourbon Maple Palisade Peaches
As summer winds down and the first signs of fall start to creep in, there’s one final highlight we look forward to every year: Colorado peaches.
Specifically, Palisade peaches. These late-summer beauties are grown on the Western Slope, where hot days and cool nights help them ripen perfectly. They're juicy, fragrant, and bursting with flavor. If you've ever had one at peak ripeness, you know—nothing else compares.
So before we dive into all things pumpkin, let’s take a moment to honor the end of peach season with one last simple but special dessert.
Why Palisade Peaches Are Worth the Hype
Palisade, Colorado is known for producing some of the best peaches in the country. The unique climate helps develop deeper sweetness, more complexity, and that melt-in-your-mouth texture you only get from a truly good peach.
You’ll see them pop up at farmers markets, roadside stands, and on menus across the state this time of year. They’re more than just fruit—they’re part of what makes summer in Colorado feel like summer.
Bourbon Maple Peaches: A Quick, Elegant Dessert
This skillet peach dessert is easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to serve at your next dinner party. The bourbon and maple syrup bring out the peaches' natural flavor without overpowering them. Serve it warm over ice cream, yogurt, or just enjoy as-is with a spoon.
Ingredients
4 large Palisade peaches, sliced (about 750–800g)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons bourbon
A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
A pinch of kosher salt
Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or yogurt for serving
Instructions
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sliced peaches and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until they start to soften.
Stir in the maple syrup, bourbon, salt, and cinnamon if using.
Let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring now and then, until the peaches are tender and glossy.
Remove from heat and serve warm.
Optional extras: Top with fresh mint, toasted pecans, or a little mascarpone for extra flair.
More Ways to Enjoy Late-Season Peaches
Grilled Peaches: Halve and grill them until they caramelize. Pair with blue cheese and a drizzle of honey.
Homemade Jam: Preserve the flavor of summer with a small batch of peach jam.
Peach Cocktails: Muddle slices into bourbon or vodka cocktails for a fruity twist.
This dessert is a farewell to summer in the sweetest way. Whether you’re cooking for guests or just treating yourself, Bourbon Maple Palisade Peaches are the perfect way to say goodbye to sunshine and long days before fall settles in.
