The aroma of sweet, juicy peaches combined with a buttery, flaky crust creates a heavenly dessert experience. There’s something truly special about a homemade peach pie, especially when it’s made with ripe, fresh peaches. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family gathering, this classic pie recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 280
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 120mg
Why Make This The Best Peach Pie
This pie stands out because it uses fresh, ripe peaches that shine through the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural flavor of the peaches to take center stage, making this dessert both refreshing and satisfying. It’s a dessert that not only tastes good but also evokes warm memories of summer days spent picking peaches and enjoying homemade treats with family.
How to Make The Best Peach Pie
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Gathering your ingredients and equipment ahead of time will make the pie-making process smoother.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of sliced fresh peaches, 1 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Toss everything gently to coat the peaches evenly. The mixture should look syrupy and delicious!
Step 3: Cooking
Roll out the pie crust and place it into a pie dish. Pour the peach filling into the crust and dot the top with 1 tablespoon of butter. For a beautiful finish, cover with a second pie crust or create a lattice top to let some of the filling peek through. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Step 4: Finishing
Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This cooling step is crucial, as it helps the filling set and enhances the overall flavor.
How to Serve The Best Peach Pie
Serve your peach pie slightly warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This classic pairing enhances the sweetness of the peaches and adds a delicious creaminess that is hard to resist. For a touch of sophistication, garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.
How to Store The Best Peach Pie
Store any leftover pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, it can be refrigerated for up to a week. You can also freeze the pie for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect The Best Peach Pie
- Make sure to use fresh, ripe peaches for the best flavor. If fresh peaches aren’t available, frozen peaches can be substituted; just make sure to drain excess liquid.
- If you prefer a less sweet pie, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup.
- To prevent a soggy crust, consider pre-baking the bottom crust for a few minutes before adding the filling.
- Experiment with spices! A touch of nutmeg or ginger can add a lovely twist to the flavor profile.
Delicious Variations
- Berry Peach Pie: Add 1 cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries to the peach filling for a burst of flavor.
- Crumble Topping: Instead of a top crust, sprinkle a mixture of oats, flour, butter, and brown sugar over the peaches for a crunchy topping.
- Peach Galette: For a rustic take, roll out the pie crust flat, place the peach mixture in the center, and fold the edges over, leaving the center exposed before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned peaches, but be sure to drain them well and reduce the sugar in the recipe as canned peaches are often packed in syrup. -
What type of peaches work best for this pie?
Freestone peaches are ideal for baking because they are easier to slice, but clingstone peaches can work too. -
How can I tell when the pie is done?
Look for a golden-brown crust and bubbling filling. The filling should be steaming but not overflowing. -
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving. -
What should I do if my crust is browning too quickly?
If the crust is browning too fast, you can cover the edges with aluminum foil while baking to protect them from burning.
Conclusion
The Best Peach Pie is a delightful mix of sweet, juicy peaches and a buttery crust that will surely be a hit at any gathering. Its simplicity and ability to evoke fond memories make it a treasured recipe for any home cook. Take a moment to try out this recipe, and you’ll experience the joy of homemade goodness in every slice. Happy baking!