To make a delicious peach pie, start with about 6 cups of fresh peaches, peeled and sliced. Mix them with ¾ to 1 cup of sugar, a tablespoon of lemon juice, and a teaspoon of cinnamon. Add ¼ cup of flour or 2-3 tablespoons of cornstarch to thicken the filling. Roll out your pie crust, fill it with the peach mixture, and cover it with another crust. Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes, then lower to 350°F for 30-35 minutes. Let it cool before serving. There's even more to successful peach pie making that you'll want to explore!
Key Takeaways
- Use 6 cups of fresh peaches, peeled and sliced, combined with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice for a flavorful filling.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the pie for 15 minutes before reducing the temperature to 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes.
- For the crust, roll out a homemade or store-bought pie crust, ensuring even thickness for the bottom and top layers.
- Mix a thickening agent, such as 1/4 cup flour or 2-3 tablespoons cornstarch, with the peach mixture to prevent a runny filling.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, and garnish with fresh mint for added flavor and presentation.
History
Peach pie has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century when farmers began cultivating peaches in America.
As settlers migrated westward, they brought their beloved recipes with them, adapting them to the bountiful ingredients available. Peaches flourished in the warm climate, leading to an abundance of this juicy fruit.
The pie quickly became a staple in American kitchens, symbolizing home and comfort. By the late 1800s, peach pie appeared in cookbooks across the country, showcasing regional variations and techniques.
You might notice that it often represented summer gatherings and family celebrations.
Today, peach pie remains a cherished dessert, evoking nostalgia and the sweetness of simpler times, continuing to enchant generations with its delightful flavors.
Recipe
Peach pie is a delightful dessert that brings the sweetness of summer to your table all year round. This classic dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a picnic, celebrating a birthday, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home. The combination of juicy peaches and a flaky crust creates a mouthwatering experience that's hard to resist.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this pie from scratch and impress your family and friends with your baking skills. To achieve the perfect peach pie, it's crucial to use ripe peaches for the best flavor and texture. The sweetness of the fruit, combined with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, enhances the overall taste.
You can serve the pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or allow it to cool for a revitalizing dessert. Follow this simple recipe to create a delicious peach pie that will become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade crust)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
To make the pie, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice, mixing well to coat the peaches evenly.
Roll out one pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie pan, then pour the peach mixture into the crust, spreading it out evenly. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter. Cover with the second pie crust, sealing the edges and making slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let the pie cool for at least an hour before serving.
When making peach pie, it's important to choose peaches that are just ripe and not overripe, as they'll hold their shape better during baking. If you want to enhance the flavor further, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the filling or using a mix of different stone fruits like nectarines or plums.
If you prefer a thicker filling, you can increase the amount of flour. Make sure to store any leftovers in the refrigerator, where they’ll keep well for up to three days. Enjoy your homemade peach pie! To elevate the flavor of your peach pie, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg, which pairs beautifully with the fruit. If you’re interested in experimenting with different fillings, you might want to check out an apple pie filling ingredients list for inspiration. Each variation offers a unique taste, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert no matter the season!
Cooking Steps
Now that you've got your ingredients ready, let's get cooking!
Start by preparing those fresh peaches and mixing in sugar and cinnamon for flavor.
You'll also want to add a splash of lemon juice to brighten everything up before rolling out your pie crust.
Step 1. Prepare Fresh Peaches
Start by washing the fresh peaches thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or pesticides.
After rinsing, pat them dry with a clean towel.
Next, you'll want to remove the skins. You can do this easily by blanching the peaches for about 30 seconds in boiling water, then transferring them to an ice bath. The skins should slip off effortlessly.
Once peeled, cut each peach in half and remove the pit. If you prefer smaller pieces, slice the halves into wedges.
Make sure to handle them gently to avoid bruising.
Now, your peaches are prepped, ready to shine in your delicious pie. Enjoy the sweet aroma and vibrant color they'll bring to your dessert!
Step 2. Add Sugar and Cinnamon
Once your peaches are prepped, it's time to enhance their natural sweetness with sugar and a hint of cinnamon.
In a large mixing bowl, combine about three-quarters of a cup of granulated sugar with one to two teaspoons of ground cinnamon, depending on how much spice you like.
Gently toss your peaches in this mixture, ensuring each slice is coated evenly.
Let the peaches sit for about 10-15 minutes; this will help the sugar draw out their juices, creating a lovely syrup.
Stir occasionally to keep everything mixed well.
This sweet and aromatic blend will elevate the flavor of your pie, making it irresistible.
Now, you're ready to move on to the next step in creating your delicious peach pie!
Step 3. Add Lemon Juice
To brighten up the flavors of your peach filling, adding fresh lemon juice is the next step.
Start by washing and slicing your peaches, then place them in a mixing bowl. Squeeze the juice of one medium-sized lemon over the peaches, ensuring you catch any seeds. The acidity of the lemon juice not only enhances the sweetness of the peaches but also helps prevent browning.
Stir gently to coat the peaches evenly, allowing the juice to blend with the sugar and cinnamon you've added earlier. This simple step elevates your filling, giving it a revitalizing zing.
After mixing, let the peach mixture sit for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together before proceeding to the next steps in your pie-making adventure.
Step 4. Roll Out Pie Crust
Before you roll out your pie crust, make sure your dough has chilled sufficiently to make it more manageable.
Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking. Take the chilled dough and place it in the center of your floured surface. Gently press it down with your hands to form a disc.
Start rolling from the center outwards, turning the dough a quarter turn every few strokes to maintain a circular shape. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch. If the dough sticks, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
Once you've reached the desired size, carefully transfer the crust to your pie pan. Trim excess edges, leaving about an inch overhang for crimping later.
Step 5. Bake Until Golden Brown
After you've filled your pie crust with fresh peaches and a sprinkle of sugar, it's time to bake.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pie on the middle rack and bake for about 15 minutes. This initial high heat helps to set the crust.
After 15 minutes, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 30 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on the pie; you want the crust to be golden brown and the filling to bubble.
If the edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with strips of aluminum foil.
Once it's done, let it cool on a wire rack for at least two hours before slicing. Enjoy!
Final Thoughts
While baking a peach pie can seem intimidating at first, the joy of creating a delicious dessert makes it all worthwhile.
You'll find that with each step, from selecting ripe peaches to rolling out the crust, you're developing a skill that brings satisfaction.
Don't be afraid to experiment with spices or mix in other fruits; make the recipe your own.
Remember, it's not just about the final product but also the memories you create while baking.
Share your pie with friends and family, and relish the smiles it brings.
Most importantly, enjoy the process—perfecting your peach pie will take practice, but each attempt gets you closer to that perfect slice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for This Pie Recipe?
Absolutely, you can use frozen peaches for your pie!
Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy crust.
If you want, you can also toss the thawed peaches with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to enhance the flavor and help thicken the filling.
Using frozen fruit can save you time and still yield a delicious pie that everyone will love!
How Do I Store Leftover Peach Pie?
To store leftover pie, let it cool completely at room temperature.
Once cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. You can also place it in an airtight container.
Refrigerate the pie if you plan to eat it within a few days.
For longer storage, you can freeze slices. Just wrap them individually and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Enjoy your delicious pie later!
What Type of Peaches Are Best for Pie?
When you're choosing peaches for pie, go for those that are ripe and juicy. Freestone peaches are ideal since the pit separates easily from the flesh, making preparation a breeze.
Look for varieties like Yellow Cling or White peaches, as they provide a sweet flavor and nice texture. Avoid overripe or mushy peaches; they won't hold up in baking.
Fresh, firm peaches will give you the best results in your pie!
Can I Substitute the Sugar With a Sugar Alternative?
Yes, you can substitute sugar with a sugar alternative in many recipes.
Popular options like honey, agave syrup, or stevia can work well, but keep in mind that each has different sweetness levels and may alter the texture.
You'll want to adjust the quantities accordingly. If you're using a liquid sweetener, consider reducing other liquids in your recipe to maintain the right consistency.
Experiment a bit to find what suits your taste best!
How Long Does Peach Pie Take to Cool Before Serving?
After baking, you should let your pie cool for about two to four hours before serving.
This cooling time allows the filling to set, ensuring each slice holds its shape when you cut it.
If you're in a hurry, you can serve it warm, but the texture won't be as perfect.
Just remember, a little patience goes a long way in making your dessert even more enjoyable!
Enjoy your delicious creation!
Arf, an author and an innovative enthusiast of coffee, coffee alternatives, and tea, plays a crucial role as a contributor to the esteemed Cappuccino Oracle platform. Renowned for his curiosity and passion for these captivating beverages, Arf has carved out a unique space for himself in the world of exploration and writing. He realized that coffee, coffee alternatives, and tea are not mere drinks to keep one awake, but universes of flavors and stories waiting to be explored.
