The Best Peach Pie

Peach Pie is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer with its gooey peach filling and buttery crust. This pie is perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or just a cozy night in. With a unique twist from smoked paprika, it elevates the traditional peach pie to new heights, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of fresh peaches and smoked paprika creates a deliciously unique taste.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, even novice bakers can whip up this pie with confidence.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to holiday dinners.
• Homemade Goodness: Using fresh ingredients makes this pie a wholesome treat.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Serve it at gatherings, and watch your guests come back for seconds!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Peach Pie, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch pie dish
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Knife
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch pie dish: This ensures an even bake and perfect crust size for your pie.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough evenly for a beautiful crust.
• Mixing bowls: Ideal for combining ingredients without mess.
• Knife: Necessary for cutting peaches into cubes.

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Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 discs pie crust ((I used my Homemade Pie Crust Recipe to make mine))

For the Filling

• 2 lbs (900 g) fresh yellow peaches ((about 6-7 peaches))
• 2 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice or lime juice ((freshly-squeezed))
• 3/4 cups (150 g) white granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup + 1 tbsp (50 g) tapioca starch
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp smoked paprika or regular paprika ((or 1 tsp cinnamon))

For Topping

• 1 tbsp (15 g) unsalted butter ((for topping))
• 1 tbsp (10 g) white granulated sugar ((for topping))
• 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp (15 ml) milk ((beaten together, for the egg wash))

How to Make Peach Pie

Step 1: Make the Pie Crust

Make the pie crust following my Homemade Pie Crust recipe or use your favorite pie crust recipe. This step can be done 1 or more days ahead of time if desired.

Step 2: Prepare the Peaches

Peel and cut the peaches into 1-inch cubes (2.5 cm) for a textured filling. I don’t recommend slicing as peaches are very soft and juicy; fillings with sliced peaches can easily turn out mushy.

Step 3: Make the Peach Filling

In a large bowl, add the cubed peaches, lemon or lime juice, sugar, tapioca starch, vanilla extract, and smoked or regular paprika (or cinnamon). Stir until combined.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400F (200C).

Step 5: Prepare the Pie Base

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one of the chilled discs of pie dough into a 12-inch (30 cm) circle to fit a 9-inch (22 cm) pie dish. Place it into the pie plate and add in the peach filling, making sure to pour in all extra liquid from the bowl.

Step 6: Create the Lattice Crust

Remove the second disc of pie dough from the refrigerator and roll it out into a 12-inch (30 cm) circle. Use a knife to cut out six strips about two inches wide (about 5 cm). Lay these strips over and under one another to create a lattice pattern. Cut off any excess dough from the ends of the strips, pressing them into the bottom layer of crust as you go.

Step 7: Add Egg Wash and Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, beat together the egg yolk with milk until smooth. Brush this mixture over your lattice crust and sprinkle with sugar. Add small cubes of butter on top of the peach filling where gaps exist in your top layer.

Step 8: Bake Your Pie

Bake on the middle rack of your oven for 40-50 minutes or until you see bubbling in your filling. Once bubbling starts, allow it to cook for another 3-5 minutes before removing it from the oven. If browning too quickly, cover with aluminum foil. Let cool to room temperature for about two to three hours before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Peach Pie

Serving Peach Pie can elevate your dessert experience. The sweet, gooey filling and flaky crust pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its flavor.

A La Mode

• Add a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of each slice. The creamy texture perfectly complements the warm peach filling.

Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top your pie with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy addition. It adds a sweet touch without overpowering the peaches.

Caramel Sauce Drizzle

• A drizzle of caramel sauce can introduce a rich, buttery flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the peaches.

Cinnamon Sugar Dusting

• Sprinkling a bit of cinnamon sugar over the pie before serving adds an extra layer of warmth and spice to each bite.

Mint Garnish

• Fresh mint leaves can brighten up the presentation and add a refreshing note that balances the richness of the pie.

Fruit Salad Side

• Serve slices with a side of fresh fruit salad to add a burst of color and flavor, making for a vibrant dessert plate.

How to Perfect Peach Pie

Perfecting Peach Pie is all about attention to detail in preparation and baking. Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out exceptional every time.

• Choose ripe peaches – Use fresh, ripe peaches for flavor and texture. Check for firmness and aroma; they should be fragrant and slightly soft.
• Use cold ingredients – Keep your butter and water cold when making the crust. This will help create a flaky texture in your pie crust.
• Don’t skip the tapioca starch – This ingredient helps absorb excess juices from the peaches, preventing your filling from becoming too runny.
• Bake until bubbling – Make sure to bake your pie until you see bubbling filling; this indicates that it’s cooked through and thickened properly.
• Cool before slicing – Allow the pie to cool completely before serving. This helps solidify the filling, making it easier to slice clean pieces.
• Experiment with spices – Don’t hesitate to adjust or add spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra depth in flavor beyond paprika.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Pie

Pairing side dishes with Peach Pie can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the peach pie.
2. Fresh Berries – Raspberries or blueberries provide tartness that contrasts nicely with the sweet filling.
3. Chocolate Mousse – Rich chocolate mousse adds indulgence, creating a delightful contrast to fruity flavors.
4. Cream Cheese Tart – A tangy cream cheese tart offers a rich counterpart that plays well with the sweetness.
5. Peach Sorbet – For those who love peaches, serving peach sorbet offers an extra burst of fruity flavor.
6. Pecan Cookies – Crunchy pecan cookies complement the soft texture of peach pie while adding nutty notes.
7. Lemonade – A refreshing glass of lemonade provides acidity that cuts through the richness of dessert.
8. Spiced Nuts – Roasted spiced nuts offer crunchiness and savory notes that enhance your overall dessert spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peach Pie can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not using ripe peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are crucial for flavor. Choose peaches that yield slightly when pressed and have a sweet aroma.
• Skipping the tapioca starch: This ingredient is essential for thickening the filling. Without it, your pie may turn out runny. Always measure carefully.
• Overworking the dough: Over-kneading can lead to a tough crust. Handle the dough gently and only roll it out until it’s just right.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated to 400F (200C) before baking. An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and texture.
• Cutting the pie too soon: Allowing the pie to cool is key for setting the filling. If you cut it while hot, it may not hold its shape properly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil if not in a container.

Freezing Peach Pie

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Peach Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-45 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the secret ingredient in Peach Pie?

The secret ingredient is smoked paprika! It enhances the peach flavor with its warm notes.

Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just thaw them completely and drain excess juice before mixing into your filling.

How do I know when my peach pie is done?

The pie is done when the filling bubbles, usually after about 40-50 minutes in the oven.

Can I customize Peach Pie recipe?

Absolutely! You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg or mix in other fruits like berries for added flavor.

How long does Peach Pie last?

In the refrigerator, it lasts about 3 days; in the freezer, up to 2 months if properly wrapped.

Final Thoughts

Peach Pie combines juicy peaches with a flaky crust and a hint of smoked paprika for an extraordinary flavor. It’s perfect as a dessert or treat at gatherings. Feel free to customize with spices or different fruits to make it your own!