The Best Peach Pie

The Best Peach Pie

As the warm sun kisses the earth and the sweet aroma of summer envelops us, there’s something undeniably comforting about baking a pie. It reminds me of lazy afternoons spent in my grandma’s kitchen, where she would carefully mix the ingredients, her laughter blending seamlessly with the sound of pie crusts rolling out. Today, I’m excited to share my cherished recipe for The Best Peach Pie—a dish that embodies the essence of summer, filled with juicy, tender peaches nestled in a flaky, golden crust. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe will fill your home with love and warmth.

With the crisp texture of the crust and the succulent filling, this easy summer dessert is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Juicy: It features ripe, fresh peaches that burst with flavor, making each bite a delightful treat.
• Easy to Follow: With simple steps and a straightforward process, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Lattice Crust: The beautifully woven lattice crust is not only stunning but also allows that enticing peach aroma to escape while baking.
• Crowd-Pleasing: This pie is a guaranteed hit at summer gatherings, bringing a little sunshine to your festivities.
• Cozy Feel: The combination of warm peaches, sweet sugar, and aromatic spices creates a comforting dessert that’s perfect for family gatherings or quiet nights at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need for The Best Peach Pie

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

1. Make the Pie Crust: Start by making the pie crust following my Homemade Pie Crust recipe or use your favorite pie crust recipe. You can prep this step a day or two in advance, which makes things easier later.

2. Prepare the Peaches: Peel and cut the peaches into 1-inch cubes (2.5 cm) for a textured filling. Avoid slicing the peaches, as they tend to be very soft and juicy, which could lead to a mushy filling.

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 (or cinnamon). Stir until all the ingredients are well-blended.

4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you assemble the pie.

5. Prepare the Pie: 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 the pie crust into the dish and pour in the peach filling, making sure to include all the extra juice.

6. Create the Lattice Crust: Roll out the second disc of pie dough into a 12-inch (30 cm) circle. Cut out 6 strips about 2-inches wide (about 5 cm). Weave the strips over and under each other, pulling back strips as needed. Cut off any excess dough from the edges and press them into the bottom layer, crimping the edges for a pretty finish.

7. Apply the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg yolk with the milk until smooth. Brush this mixture over the crust and sprinkle with sugar. Dot small cubes of butter over the top of the peach filling, right in the openings of the lattice.

8. Bake: Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 40-50 minutes, or until the filling begins to bubble. Once bubbling, bake for an additional 3-5 minutes. If the crust browns too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil. Allow the pie to cool to room temperature (about 2-3 hours) before serving.

Variations & Creative Twists

• Berry Blend: Add in some fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist that adds a tart contrast to the sweetness of the peaches.
• Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the peach filling for a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft peaches.
• Citrus Zing: Experiment by adding a touch of orange zest to the filling for a zesty flavor that brightens up the dish.
• Creamy Delight: For a richer experience, dollop some cream cheese or ricotta cheese mixed with honey onto the base before adding the peach filling.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

• Make-Ahead Advice: You can prepare the pie crust ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days, making your baking day even smoother.
• Storage Suggestions: This pie is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Slicing Trick: For easier slicing, make sure to let the pie cool completely. This helps the filling set, ensuring beautiful slices.
• Freezing Hint: If you want to enjoy this pie later, you can freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Nutrition Information per Serving

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 280
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Sugar: 21g
• Fat: 11g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 160mg

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this ahead? Yes! You can prepare the filling and the crust a day in advance.
• Can I use different ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to swap the peaches for other fruits, or use a store-bought crust if you want.
• How do I store leftovers? Store any uneaten pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered to maintain freshness.
• How long does it last? The pie is best enjoyed fresh but will be good for about 3 days in the refrigerator.

Wrapping It Up

This The Best Peach Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of summer, a moment of warmth, and a reminder of sweet memories made around the kitchen table. Baking this pie is an experience filled with joy, perfectly complemented by the laughter and love of those you share it with. So, save this recipe to your cozy dessert board so it’s ready when you need to whip up something special for friends, family, or just yourself!