The Best Peach Pie

The Best Peach Pie is the ultimate dessert for any occasion! Bursting with juicy fresh peaches and a hint of smoked paprika, this pie delivers an irresistible flavor that captures the essence of summer. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights at home. This recipe stands out with its delightful gooey filling and flaky crust, making it a must-try for peach lovers everywhere.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh peaches and smoked paprika elevates this pie to new heights.
• Easy to Follow: Step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice bakers can create this masterpiece.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or chilled on its own for a refreshing treat.
• Perfect Texture: The use of cubed peaches creates a satisfying bite without mushiness.
• Impressive Presentation: A lattice crust adds visual appeal, making it great for special occasions.

Tools and Preparation

To make The Best Peach Pie, you’ll need some essential tools that will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Pie dish
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Ensures an even thickness for your pie crust, making it easier to work with.
• Pie dish: A sturdy pie dish helps in achieving a perfectly baked crust while holding all the delicious filling.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining the filling ingredients thoroughly.
• Pastry brush: Ideal for applying egg wash evenly over the crust, giving it a beautiful golden finish.

Ingredients

To create The Best Peach Pie, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pie Crust

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

For the Peach 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
• 1 tbsp (10 g) white granulated sugar

For Egg Wash

• 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp (15 ml) milk (beaten together)

How to Make The Best Peach Pie

Step 1: Make the Pie Crust

Follow my Homemade Pie Crust recipe or your favorite pie crust recipe. This step can be prepared ahead of time if desired.

Step 2: Prepare the Peaches

Peel and cut the peaches into 1-inch cubes. Avoid slicing them as they are very soft and juicy; cubing helps maintain texture.

Step 3: Make the Peach Filling

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

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400F (200C) to ensure it’s hot enough when you bake your pie.

Step 5: Prepare the Pie

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of pie dough into a 12-inch circle. Fit it into your 9-inch pie dish, then pour in the peach filling along with any excess liquid from the bowl.

Step 6: Create the Lattice Crust

Roll out the second disc into another 12-inch circle. Cut out six strips about 2 inches wide. Lay them in a lattice pattern over the peach filling. Flute or crimp the edges together.

Step 7: Apply Egg Wash

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

Step 8: Bake

Place your pie in the middle rack of your oven. Bake for 40-50 minutes, until bubbling occurs. If browning too quickly, cover with aluminum foil. Allow cooling at room temperature for about 2-3 hours, then serve and enjoy!

How to Serve The Best Peach Pie

Serving Peach Pie is all about enhancing its delicious flavors while creating a delightful experience for your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your pie.

A La Mode

• Serve a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of each slice of peach pie. The creamy texture and cold temperature perfectly balance the warm, gooey filling.

Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream to each serving. This light and airy topping complements the richness of the pie beautifully.

Fresh Mint Garnish

• Top slices with a sprig of fresh mint. This adds a pop of color and a refreshing hint that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the peaches.

Drizzle with Honey

• For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle honey over your slice. This natural sweetener enhances the fruitiness, making every bite even more delightful.

Serve with Tea or Coffee

• Pair your peach pie with a warm cup of tea or coffee. The warmth from the beverage enhances the comforting flavors of the pie, making it an ideal dessert after a meal.

Cheese Pairing

• Consider serving a slice with sharp cheddar cheese. The savory flavor adds an interesting twist that complements the sweet peaches.

How to Perfect The Best Peach Pie

Creating Peach Pie involves attention to detail and a few key techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches provide the best flavor and texture for your filling. Choose peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for optimal sweetness.
• Don’t skip the acid: Adding lemon or lime juice not only enhances flavor but also helps prevent browning in your peaches, keeping them vibrant and appealing.
• Adjust sugar based on ripeness: If your peaches are very sweet, consider reducing the sugar in your filling. Taste as you mix to find the right balance.
• Chill your dough: Keeping your pie crust dough chilled before baking ensures it remains flaky and doesn’t shrink during cooking.
• Watch for bubbling: Keep an eye on your pie as it bakes; once you see bubbles in the filling, it’s typically ready to come out of the oven for that perfect texture.
• Cool before slicing: Allowing your pie to cool at room temperature for 2-3 hours helps set the filling, making it easier to slice without losing shape.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Peach Pie

Pairing side dishes with Peach Pie can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some delicious options you might consider serving alongside it.

1. Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette: A light salad made with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the sweetness of the pie.
2. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with herbs provide a savory contrast to the sweet flavors of peach pie.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A platter of seasonal roasted vegetables offers earthy flavors that complement dessert nicely.
4. Cheese Platter: Include various cheeses such as brie or goat cheese which pair well with fruit desserts.
5. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up an ice cream sundae station where guests can create their own treats using different toppings.
6. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can lighten up the meal while still keeping those fruity notes alive.
7. Nut Mixes: A bowl of spiced nuts can serve as a crunchy, savory option that contrasts well with soft desserts like pie.
8. Crusty Bread or Rolls: Offer freshly baked bread or dinner rolls as they provide a hearty element to balance out sweet desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Bold crust preparation: Skipping the chilling time for your pie crust can lead to a tough texture. Always refrigerate the dough before rolling it out to ensure flakiness.
• Bold peach selection: Using unripe or overripe peaches can ruin the flavor. Choose fresh, ripe yellow peaches for the best taste and texture.
• Bold filling consistency: Overmixing the filling can cause it to become mushy. Gently combine the ingredients, ensuring the peaches maintain their shape.
• Bold baking time: Not letting the pie cool properly can make slicing difficult. Allow it to cool at room temperature for 2-3 hours before serving.
• Bold egg wash application: Forgetting to brush the top crust with egg wash may result in a dull appearance. Always apply it for a beautiful golden finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pie in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing The Best Peach Pie

• Wrap whole pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best results.

Reheating The Best Peach Pie

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peach Pie.

How do I select the best peaches for my pie?

Choose ripe yellow peaches that are slightly soft to the touch. They should have a sweet aroma and vibrant color.

Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen peaches work well, but ensure they are thawed and drained of excess liquid before using them in your filling.

What makes this peach pie recipe unique?

The addition of smoked paprika or cinnamon enhances the natural sweetness of the peaches, adding depth of flavor that sets it apart from traditional recipes.

How do I prevent my peach pie from being too watery?

Using tapioca starch helps absorb excess moisture from the peaches, preventing a soggy filling. Make sure to mix it in thoroughly with your other ingredients.

Final Thoughts

The Best Peach Pie is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and customizable! You can adjust spices or even add other fruits like berries for a twist. Try this recipe and enjoy a slice of summer all year round!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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The Best Peach Pie

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• Author: Dian
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

The Best Peach Pie is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer in every bite. This pie features juicy, ripe peaches enveloped in a flaky crust, combined with a hint of smoked paprika for an unexpected twist. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy evenings at home, this recipe is sure to impress peach lovers everywhere. With its gooey filling and beautiful lattice top, The Best Peach Pie is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it an ideal centerpiece for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. Prepare your pie crust using your favorite recipe and refrigerate if necessary.
2. Peel and cube the peaches into 1-inch pieces to maintain texture.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed peaches, lemon juice, sugar, tapioca starch, vanilla extract, and smoked paprika. Stir until well mixed.
4. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Roll out one disc of pie dough into a circle and fit it into a pie dish. Pour in the peach filling.
6. Roll out the second disc and cut it into strips to create a lattice pattern over the filling.
7. Brush the lattice with egg wash and sprinkle sugar on top. Add small pieces of butter onto the filling.
8. Bake for 40-50 minutes until bubbling occurs and golden brown; cool for 2-3 hours before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 125g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg