Blushing Poached Peaches

Directions

1. 1
   Place sugar, vanilla bean, cinnamon stick and 4 cups water in a large saucepan on low heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.
2. 2
   Cut a small cross on the bottom of each peach with a sharp knife. Lower peaches into syrup. Cover with a parchment paper circle and weigh down with a dinner plate. Simmer for 5-10 mins, or until tender.
3. 3
   Remove peaches from syrup with a slotted spoon. Set aside to cool slightly.
4. 4
   Bring poaching liquid to a boil on high heat. Boil for 15 mins, until reduced by half and thickened slightly. Set aside to cool. Discard vanilla bean and cinnamon stick.
5. 5
   Carefully peel skins from peaches and discard. Divide peaches among serving bowls. Serve with cooled syrup and whipped cream or ice cream.