### Baked Stuffed Peaches: A Sweet and Savory Delight
Baked stuffed peaches are not only delightful but also visually appealing as a dessert or an elegant appetizer. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of peaches with a savory mix that complements perfectly. Follow these detailed steps to create a delectable baked stuffed peaches dish.
#### Ingredients:
- 6 ripe peaches
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- Granulated sugar for topping
- Butter or oil for greasing
#### Step-by-Step Instructions:
**1. Preheat Your Oven:**
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the peaches will cook evenly and the filling remains creamy.
**2. Prepare the Peaches:**
- Wash the peaches thoroughly and make a shallow X cut on the bottom of each peach with a sharp knife. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing them from splitting.
- Place the peaches in a single layer in a baking dish. Grease the dish lightly to prevent sticking.
**3. Mix the Filling:**
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, salt, and pepper. If you prefer a bit of freshness, add some chopped fresh thyme leaves for extra flavor.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture is smooth.
**4. Stuff the Peaches:**
- Carefully scoop out the flesh from each peach half using a small spoon or melon baller, leaving about 1/4-inch of flesh on the sides to hold in the filling.
- Fill each hollowed-out peach with the cheese mixture, pressing down gently but firmly.
**5. Bake the Peaches:**
- Place the stuffed peaches back into the prepared baking dish and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the flesh is tender and the filling is heated through.
- For an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle a little bit of granulated sugar over the top of each peach half before serving.
**6. Serve:**
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm as they are best enjoyed at this temperature.
#### Tips for Optimal Results:
- **Freshness:** Choose very ripe peaches but avoid those that are overly mushy.
- **Cooking Time:** Adjust cooking time based on the size of your peach halves; smaller ones may require less baking time.
- **Flavor Variations:** Experiment with different cheese types or add a hint of vanilla extract to the filling for an interesting twist.
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By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a beautifully baked stuffed peaches dish that is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy the warmth of summer in every bite!