Amaretti-Stuffed Peaches



1/2 stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup coarsely crumbled amaretti (Italian almond macaroons, preferably Lazzaroni brand)
2 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
8 firm-ripe small peaches (about 2 lb), halved lengthwise and pitted
Accompaniment: mascarpone cheese or crème fraîche

1. Put oven rack in middle position and preheat oven to 350°F. Melt 2 tablespoons butter and pour into a 13- by 9-inch glass or ceramic baking dish.
2. Pulse 3/4 cup crumbled amaretti in a food processor until finely chopped, then add flour, sugar, salt, and remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Blend until butter is incorporated, then add egg and blend until smooth.
3. Scoop out just enough peach pulp from center of each peach half with a melon-ball cutter or a small spoon to create a 1-inch-deep cavity. Arrange peaches, cut sides up, in baking dish, then brush skins with melted butter from dish. Divide amaretti mixture among cavities, then sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup crumbled amaretti over filling. Bake until filling is puffed and crisp, 40 to 50 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Makes 8 servings.

Gourmet
August 2005