Name: Peach Tarte Tatin
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4–5 fresh peaches, peeled and sliced; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade); 1 tsp lemon juice (optional); 1/2 tsp vanilla extract or ground cinnamon (optional); Flour, for dusting

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Peach Tarte Tatin is a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make. The natural sweetness of ripe peaches intensifies as they caramelize, creating a rich, buttery layer that pairs perfectly with the light, crisp pastry. It’s a wonderful way to use fresh, seasonal peaches, and the whole tart comes together in one pan—minimal mess, maximum flavor.

Ingredients

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

Fresh peaches (peeled and sliced)
Granulated sugar
Unsalted butter
Puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
Lemon juice (optional, to brighten the flavor)
Vanilla extract or cinnamon (optional, for added depth)
Flour (for dusting)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Caramelize the sugar: In an oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sugar and cook until it turns a light amber color, about 5–7 minutes.
Add the peaches: Arrange peach slices over the caramel in a circular pattern. Let them cook for 5–10 minutes until slightly softened. Optionally, add a splash of lemon juice or a dash of cinnamon.
Add the pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it to fit the skillet. Carefully place it over the peaches, tucking the edges in.
Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
Cool and invert: Let the tart rest for 5 minutes, then place a plate over the skillet and carefully invert it to reveal the caramelized peaches on top.
Serve: Slice and serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: Approximately 50–55 minutes

Variations

Add herbs: A hint of fresh thyme or rosemary adds a savory twist.
Bourbon boost: Add a splash of bourbon to the caramel for depth and warmth.
Spiced version: Use cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to give the tart a cozy flavor.
Apple or pear substitute: Swap peaches for apples or pears when they’re in season.
Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free puff pastry if needed.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Peach Tarte Tatin in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–10 minutes. The tart is best enjoyed warm, but it can also be eaten cold.

FAQs

Can I use canned or frozen peaches?

Yes, but drain canned peaches well and thaw frozen peaches completely before using.

What kind of skillet should I use?

A cast iron or oven-safe nonstick skillet works best to caramelize the sugar and bake the tart evenly.

Do I need to peel the peaches?

Peeling is optional. Skins can add texture and color but may come loose during baking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake it a day ahead and gently reheat before serving.

Will store-bought puff pastry work?

Absolutely. It’s a convenient and effective option for this recipe.

How do I prevent the caramel from burning?

Cook over medium heat and watch carefully. As soon as the sugar turns amber, move to the next step.

Can I make this tart without a skillet?

Yes, caramelize the sugar in a saucepan, pour into a baking dish, add peaches and pastry, then bake.

How do I know when it’s ready to flip?

Let it rest for 5 minutes after baking, then invert while still warm for the best release.

Can I use white or brown sugar?

White sugar is traditional for the caramel, but light brown sugar adds a deeper, molasses-like flavor.

What should I serve it with?

Vanilla ice cream, crème fraîche, or whipped cream all pair beautifully with this tart.

Conclusion

Peach Tarte Tatin is a timeless dessert that celebrates the simplicity of fruit, butter, and sugar in the most elegant way. Whether you’re using peak-season peaches or looking to impress dinner guests with minimal effort, this caramelized upside-down tart offers bold flavor and beautiful presentation. It’s a classic worth adding to your dessert rotation.