Peach Pie

Why make this recipe

Peach pie is a beloved classic that embodies the essence of summer. With its sweet, juicy peaches enveloped in a buttery crust, it captures the heart and palate alike. The delightful combination of flavors makes it perfect for any gathering, from backyard barbecues to cozy family dinners. Why make this recipe? Because nothing beats the taste of homemade peach pie, especially when using fresh, ripe peaches. It’s a dessert that not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also brings a sense of nostalgia, evoking memories of summer days spent picking fruit or enjoying a slice with loved ones.

How to make Peach Pie

Creating a delicious peach pie may seem challenging, but it is quite straightforward. Here’s a breakdown of the process to help you whip up this delightful dessert that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 2 discs pie crust
• 2 lbs fresh yellow peaches (about 6-7 peaches)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice or lime juice
• 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup + 1 tbsp tapioca starch
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp smoked paprika or regular paprika (or 1 tsp cinnamon)
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for topping)
• 1 tbsp white granulated sugar (for topping)
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)

Directions:

STEP ONE:

Start by making the pie crust using your favorite pie crust recipe. If you prefer, you can prepare this a day or two in advance. A well-chilled crust helps create a flaky texture and serves as a sturdy base for your peach filling.

STEP TWO:

Peel the peaches and cut them into 1-inch cubes. Be careful while cutting; you want to ensure the pieces are chunky enough to maintain a good texture during baking. If the peaches are ripe, the skin should come off easily. If they’re a bit stubborn, you can blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds and then plunge them into ice water to make peeling easier.

STEP THREE:

In a large bowl, mix the cubed peaches with the lemon or lime juice to preserve their vibrant color and enhance the flavor. Add the white granulated sugar, tapioca starch, vanilla extract, and smoked or regular paprika (or cinnamon). The tapioca starch will help thicken the juices released by the peaches during baking. Stir everything until well combined, ensuring that the peaches are evenly coated with the mixture.

STEP FOUR:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven helps to create that perfectly golden crust while making sure the filling cooks through.

STEP FIVE:

Roll out one disc of pie dough into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. Carefully place the rolled-out dough into a 9-inch pie dish. Make sure to press it gently against the sides and bottom of the dish to avoid air bubbles. Pour in the peach filling, evenly distributing it across the pie base.

STEP SIX:

For the top crust, roll out the second disc of dough. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice it into even strips. Weave these strips over the filling to create a lattice pattern. This not only looks beautiful but also allows steam to escape while baking. Trim the edges as needed and crimp them with your fingers or a fork to create an appealing finish.

STEP SEVEN:

To give the crust a golden hue, beat the egg yolk with the milk to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture over the lattice crust. Additionally, sprinkle sugar on top for a touch of sweetness and add small cubes of unsalted butter to enhance the flavor during baking.

STEP EIGHT:

Bake the peach pie in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the filling is bubbling and the crust is a lovely golden brown. Once done, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for 2-3 hours before serving. This cooling time helps the filling to set, making it easier to slice.

How to serve Peach Pie

Peach pie is versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature. It’s delightful on its own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you want to elevate the experience, consider pairing it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor. For those who enjoy a bit of contrast, a scoop of tangy lemon sorbet adds a refreshing touch.

How to store Peach Pie

If you have leftovers (though that’s often unlikely), storing your peach pie is simple. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it loosely with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from becoming soggy. You can store the pie at room temperature for a short period, about 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigeration where it can last for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, just until warmed through and the crust regains its crispness.

Tips to make Peach Pie

1. Use Fresh Peaches: The best peach pie starts with ripe, fresh peaches. Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch and fragrant. Avoid hard peaches as they may not sweeten properly.

2. Adjust Sweetness: Taste the peaches before adding sugar. If they are very sweet, you may want to reduce the amount of sugar in the filling. Conversely, if they are tart, add a bit more.

3. Prepare the Crust in Advance: If you’re short on time, prepare the pie crust ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator. This can save you time when you’re ready to assemble the pie.

4. Experiment with Spices: While smoked paprika or cinnamon can add wonderful flavor to your pie, don’t hesitate to try other spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist.

5. Make it a Picnic Treat: Peach pie is perfect for outdoor gatherings. It travels well and is easy to slice and serve. Consider bringing it along for picnics or potlucks.

Variation

If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations:

• Peach and Berry Pie: Add in some fresh blueberries or raspberries to the peach filling for a delightful berry twist.
• Nutty Crust: Add ground almonds or pecans to your pie crust for extra flavor and texture.
• Spiced Version: Experiment with adding ginger or cloves to the spice mix for a more seasonal flair.
• Peach Crisp: If you don’t want to make a pie, consider making a peach crisp. Use a crumb topping made of oats, flour, butter, and brown sugar for an easy alternative.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen peaches?
   Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them fully and drain any excess liquid before tossing them in the filling to prevent a soggy pie.

2. What if my peaches are not ripe?
   If your peaches are firm and not fully ripe, you can leave them out at room temperature for a day or two to soften. Using slightly under-ripe peaches can still yield a delicious pie, especially if you adjust the sugar in the filling.

3. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare the pie and keep it unbaked in the freezer for up to a month. Just remember to adjust the baking time if baking straight from the freezer.

4. How can I tell when the pie is done?
   Look for a golden-brown crust and bubbling juices in the filling. You can insert a toothpick in the crust; if it comes out clean, the pie is ready.

5. How should I serve leftover pie?
   Leftover peach pie can be enjoyed cold or heated. Microwaving individual slices for a few seconds or warming them in the oven are great options to bring back that fresh-baked taste.

Peach pie is one of those timeless desserts that not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be on your way to creating a delicious pie that will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy the process and happy baking!

Homemade Peach Pie

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• Total Time: 80 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful homemade peach pie featuring sweet, juicy peaches wrapped in a buttery crust, perfect for summer gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 discs pie crust
• 2 lbs fresh yellow peaches (about 6–7 peaches)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice or lime juice
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup + 1 tbsp tapioca starch
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp smoked paprika or regular paprika (or 1 tsp cinnamon)
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for topping)
• 1 tbsp white granulated sugar (for topping)
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)

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Instructions

1. Start by making the pie crust using your favorite pie crust recipe. If you prefer, you can prepare this a day or two in advance.
2. Peel the peaches and cut them into 1-inch cubes.
3. In a large bowl, mix the cubed peaches with the lemon or lime juice.
4. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Roll out one disc of pie dough into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface.
6. For the top crust, roll out the second disc of dough and slice it into even strips.
7. To give the crust a golden hue, beat the egg yolk with the milk to create an egg wash.
8. Bake the peach pie in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes.

Notes

Let the pie cool for 2-3 hours before serving to allow the filling to set.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: peach pie, summer desserts, fruit pie