Palisade Peach Recipes

Photo: @lovelivingincolorado

While Colorado is not widely known for its fruit production, Grand Junction is home to hundreds of acres of peach, apple, cherry and pear orchards. Topping the list of mouthwatering produce are the Palisade peaches, which have a unique blend of tart, sweet, and succulent juices. Those visiting Colorado can enjoy local peaches in Grand Junction, making it a great getaway for foodies. 

If you want to create your own tasty masterpiece, after visiting one of Grand Junction’s local orchards, here is some background on peach seasons and orchards in Grand Junction, as well as some, of the best Palisade peach recipes.

 

Palisade Peach Season

Photo: @jferbs734

Fruit trees were planted in the Grand Junction area in 1881 by a settler named Jon Harlow. By 1890, Harlow’s fruit trees had become a staple, and have blossomed into what is now some of Colorado’s most beautiful orchards.

Peaches in Colorado grow during the summer months and are harvested at the end of June through the beginning of October. Many local stores in Grand Junction sell peaches directly from the orchards. If you’re visiting other locations in Colorado, most grocery stores will stock the delicious gems when peach season is in full swing.

 

Colorado Peach Orchards

 

Calvert's Colorado Peaches

Photo: @annemarieherbst1978

A family-owned orchard in Grand Junction, Calvert’s Colorado Peaches is one of the best spots to find peaches. The owners start picking in August and sell the golden fruits right from their front yard. Be sure to try the Red Globe and Cresthaven varieties – they’re Calvert delicacies.

 

Fruit Basket Orchard

Photo: @gingermeg3

As one of the few places in Grand Junction where you can pick your own peaches, Fruit Basket Orchard is a must-visit location. The orchard’s motto is “pick, eat, repeat” and visitors are encouraged to get their hands on peaches, cherries, apricots, and raspberries. The orchard provides containers for you to fill to your heart’s content. 

 

Bolton’s Orchards & Farm Market

Photo: @grandvalleygrubs

Bolton's Orchards grows sun-ripened fruits and vegetables and is one of the only orchards in the Grand Junction area where you’ll find Royal Gala Apples alongside the peach groves. The views from the orchard are breathtaking, so be sure to stop and pose for the perfect selfie.

 

Peach Recipes 

Once you have your peaches, you’re ready to head to the kitchen. Outlined below are a few favorite recipes centered around this sweet Grand Junction staple. 

 

Colorado Peach Cobbler 

From Rocky Mountain Health Plans 

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds, look no further than this classic peach cobbler made with juicy Colorado peaches grown in Grand Junction.

Filling Ingredients:

Crumble Ingredients: 

    • 1 cup sugar
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1 teaspoon salt 
    • ⅓ cup cold butter
    • 1 egg beaten 

In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and nutmeg. Next, stir in freshly picked and peeled peach slices. Grease an 11x7 inch baking pan and pour in the mixture. Set the pan aside and get started on your crumble topping. 

For the crumble, mix together sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt in a small bowl and start to incorporate small slices of butter until you get a crumb consistency. Stir in the beaten egg and spread the crumble across the peaches. Bake in the oven at 375° Fahrenheit for 35-40 minutes.  Finally, serve it up with your favorite ice cream and enjoy! 

 

Prosciutto Basil Wrapped Peaches 

From Touch of Ginger 

Looking for a recipe that’s simple, fresh, and delicious? Look no further than this Prosciutto Basil Wrapped Peaches recipe. Since there’s no cooking required, this recipe makes the perfect afternoon snack or a quick and easy appetizer. 

Ingredients:

    • 4 peaches
    • 4 oz goat cheese
    • 4 slices of prosciutto
    • 16-24 basil leaves

Cut the large peaches into 6 slices and smaller peaches into 4 slices. Distribute goat cheese onto each peach slice. Then press a basil leaf to each goat cheese-covered peach and wrap the peach in prosciutto. Serve as is or with a drizzle of spicy honey. Elevate the snacking experience by pairing this recipe with a white wine from one of Grand Junction's local wineries. 

 

Bourbon Peach Smash

From Striped Spatula 

After spending a day exploring the outdoors, there’s nothing better than a cool refreshing cocktail. Snag some bourbon from Peach Street Distillers or Clark & Co’s Distilling and get ready to kick back with a Bourbon Peach Smash. 

Ingredients:

Gently muddle mint leaves, simple syrup, and peaches in a cocktail shaker. Don't over-muddle or the mint will become bitter. Next, add your bourbon and fill the shaker with ice. Shake until the ingredients are combined and well-chilled. Strain into an ice-filled rock glass and top with ginger beer. For an added flair, garnish with a peach slice and fresh mint sprigs. 

 

For more ways to experience the farm-fresh flavors of Grand Junction, check out the Official Grand Junction Visitor Guide. 

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