Warm Peach Compote Sundae Sauce with Toasted Pecans

Serves 4 · 15 min prep · 15 min cook

Ingredients

• 5 medium ripe peaches
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 pinch of kosher salt
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1 pint vanilla ice cream
• 1/8 tsp optional chili flakes

Instructions

1. 1Pit and chop the peaches into roughly half-inch chunks; leave the skins on for color and fiber.
2. 2Place a medium skillet over medium heat and toast the chopped pecans, stirring frequently, until fragrant and a shade darker, 3 to 4 minutes; tip them onto a plate.
3. 3In the same skillet melt the butter over medium heat until it foams and just begins to smell nutty.
4. 4Stir in brown sugar, honey, lemon juice, cinnamon, salt, and optional chili flakes; cook 30 seconds until the sugar dissolves into a glossy syrup.
5. 5Add the peach chunks and cook, stirring gently now and then, until the fruit softens, releases juices, and the sauce thickens slightly, 6 to 9 minutes; peaches should still hold some shape.
6. 6Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla; taste and adjust brightness with an extra squeeze of lemon if needed.
7. 7Let the compote cool 5 minutes so it thickens further but stays warm and spoonable.
8. 8Scoop vanilla ice cream into bowls, generously ladle the warm peach sauce over the top, and finish with the toasted pecans.
9. 9Serve immediately while the contrast of hot sauce and cold ice cream is at its best; leftover sauce keeps refrigerated up to four days and reheats gently.