Gluten Free Maple Rye Whisky Peach Buckle

A rustic fruit dessert that combines tender peaches marinated in maple rye whisky with a fluffy gluten-free topping. The rosemary adds an unexpected herbal note that complements the sweet maple and smoky whisky flavors. Perfect for summer entertaining or cozy fall dinners when you want something special but not overly fussy. The buckle gets its name from how the batter 'buckles' around the fruit as it bakes, creating a beautiful rustic appearance.
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen peaches, thawed, juice reserved
- 4 tbsp maple rye whiskybourbon1:1gluten-freegluten-free
adds smoky sweetness
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp rosemary, chopped
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ¾ cup gluten free flour
- ¼ cup reserved peach juice, from thawing fruit
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350F
- 2
Toss fruit filling ingredients together in baking pan and spread evenly
- 3
Let fruit marinate for 15-30 minutes
- 4
Cream butter and maple syrup until fluffy
- 5
Add egg and beat to combine
- 6
Add remaining dry ingredients to create loose batter
- 7
Let batter sit until peaches are ready
- 8
Spread batter over peaches
- 9
Bake for 25 minutes until golden on top and springy to touch
- 10
Cool on rack for a few minutes
- 11
Scoop and serve with whipped cream or ice cream
Tips
Reserve the juice from thawed peaches as it adds natural sweetness and peach flavor to the batter.
Let the batter rest while fruit marinates - it will firm up slightly making it easier to spread over the fruit.
Serve warm for the best texture contrast between the tender fruit and fluffy topping.
Good to Know
Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in microwave.
Can be assembled up to 4 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for best experience.
Common Mistakes
Don't skip the marinating time or fruit won't absorb the whisky flavors properly.
Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent tough texture.
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
when in season
FAQ
Can I use fresh peaches instead of frozen?
Yes, use 2 cups sliced fresh peaches. You may need to add 2-3 tablespoons of water or peach juice to the batter since fresh fruit releases less liquid.
What if I don't have maple rye whisky?
Substitute with bourbon, regular whisky, or even rum. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious with the maple and fruit.
How long will this keep?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture is best within the first day but still good reheated.