Sometimes the difference isn't in more ingredients, but in the right ones. This dessert of roasted peaches with cinnamon and thyme shows exactly how a few simple herbs can transform something everyday into something special.

The combination of sweet, juicy peaches with warm cinnamon and fresh thyme creates a dessert that tastes rich without needing a lot of sugar or extra additions. Just how we see it: more flavor, less needed.

Perfect as a light dessert, but also delicious with yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients (2 people)

• 2 ripe peaches
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1–2 sprigs fresh or dried thyme
• 1–2 tbsp honey (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• Pinch of salt

Optional for serving:

• Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream
• Extra honey
• Nuts (almond, pistachio)

Method

Airfryer (quick & roasted)

1. Halve the peaches and remove the stone.
2. Mix the cinnamon with the olive oil or melted butter.
3. Brush the cut surfaces of the peaches with the mixture.
4. Place the peaches in the airfryer (cut side up).
5. Distribute the thyme leaves over them and add a pinch of salt.
6. Bake 8–10 minutes at 180°C until soft and lightly caramelized.
7. Optionally drizzle with honey immediately after baking.

Oven (softer & jammy result)

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan if possible).
2. Halve the peaches and remove the stone.
3. Place them in a baking dish with the cut side up.
4. Mix cinnamon with olive oil/butter and brush the peaches.
5. Add thyme and a pinch of salt.
6. Roast 15–20 minutes until the peaches are soft and golden brown.

Want faster results?
Use the fan setting, a preheated baking sheet, or turn the grill on for the last 2–3 minutes. That brings you closer to the speed of an airfryer.

Why cinnamon and thyme make this dessert healthier and more flavorful

The secret of this recipe is how herbs do the work that sugar or fat would normally do.

Cinnamon

• Enhances the natural sweetness of the peach
• Provides a warm, full flavor without extra sugar
• Known for its supporting effect on blood sugar levels

Thyme

• Adds a fresh, slightly savory balance
• Makes the dessert less "flat sweet" and more layered
• Contains antioxidants and gives a subtle herbaceous depth

The result: a dessert that tastes rich but remains surprisingly light.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you use canned peaches?

Yes, you can. Prefer peaches in juice (not in syrup) and drain them well. Keep in mind they are softer, so shorten the baking time by a few minutes to prevent them from becoming too mushy.

2. What other fruit can you use instead of peach?

This recipe also works very well with other fruit such as nectarines, plums, apricots, apples or pears. Firmer fruit like apple or pear needs a little more baking time.

3. How many calories does this dessert contain approximately?

That depends on the additions, but without ice cream or extra honey this is a relatively light dessert. Peaches themselves are low in calories and rich in fiber and vitamins.

4. Can you use dried thyme?

Yes, but use less (about half a teaspoon). Fresh thyme gives a fresher flavor and also looks nicer for serving.

5. Why use herbs in a dessert?

Herbs like cinnamon and thyme enhance the natural flavors of ingredients. This way you need less sugar or fat to still make a full and tasty dessert — a simple way to cook healthier without sacrificing flavor.