The Best Peach Pie

The Best Peach Pie is a delightful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of summer with its gooey peach filling and buttery crust. Bursting with fresh flavors, this pie is ideal for family gatherings, picnics, or simply indulging on a warm evening. What sets this recipe apart is not just its mouthwatering taste but also the unique addition of paprika, enhancing the sweet notes of peaches. Whether served with vanilla ice cream or on its own, this pie promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of fresh peaches and smoked paprika creates a deliciously unique filling that elevates the classic peach pie.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to holiday dinners, it’s sure to impress your guests.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up this pie in no time.
• Perfect Texture: The use of cubed peaches ensures a lovely texture that avoids sogginess while maintaining juiciness.
• Homemade Goodness: Using a homemade crust gives this pie an authentic touch that tastes better than store-bought options.

Tools and Preparation

To create The Best Peach Pie, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment. These will help streamline your baking process and ensure everything turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• 9-inch pie dish
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: A rolling pin makes it easy to evenly roll out your pie crust for a flawless base.
• Pie dish: A 9-inch pie dish helps contain the filling while allowing for even baking.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is perfect for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Pastry brush: This tool ensures even application of the egg wash for a beautifully golden crust.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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

Step 1: Make the Pie Crust

Follow my Homemade Pie Crust recipe or use your favorite one. You can prepare this step one day ahead if desired.

Step 2: Prepare the Peaches

Peel and cut the peaches into 1-inch cubes (2.5 cm) for a textured filling. Avoid slicing as it may lead to a mushy texture.

Step 3: Make the Peach Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
Cubed peaches
Lemon or lime juice
Sugar
Tapioca starch
Vanilla extract
Smoked or regular paprika

Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking.

Step 5: Prepare the Pie Base

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of pie dough into a 12-inch (30 cm) circle. Place it in your 9-inch pie dish, then fill it with the peach mixture, pouring in all excess liquid.

Step 6: Create the Lattice Top

Roll out the second disc of dough into another 12-inch circle. Cut it into strips about 2 inches wide (5 cm) each. Weave them over and under each other to create a lattice design. Trim any excess dough and flute or crimp the edges.

Step 7: Apply Egg Wash

In a small bowl, beat together the egg yolk and milk until smooth. Brush this mixture over the crust and sprinkle with sugar. Dot small pieces of butter on top of the peach filling where there’s space between crust strips.

Step 8: Bake the Pie

Bake on the middle rack for 40–50 minutes until bubbling occurs in the filling. Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 2–3 hours before serving. Enjoy your slice of The Best Peach Pie!

How to Serve The Best Peach Pie

Serving The Best Peach Pie is an experience that can be enhanced with a few delightful accompaniments. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dessert, ensuring every bite is memorable.

A La Mode

• Serve each slice of pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess contrasts beautifully with the warm pie and enhances the peach flavors.

With Whipped Cream

• Top the pie with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy addition. This complements the gooey filling and adds a touch of sweetness.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce over the pie adds a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the peaches. It’s a sweet indulgence!

Served in a Jar

• Create individual servings by layering pieces of pie in small mason jars. This makes for a fun presentation and easy handling at parties.

Accompanied by Fresh Mint

• Garnish each slice with fresh mint leaves. This adds a pop of color and a refreshing herbal note that brightens up the dessert.

How to Perfect The Best Peach Pie

To achieve The Best Peach Pie, there are some key tips that can elevate your baking game. Follow these suggestions for perfect results every time.

• Choose ripe peaches: Use fresh, ripe peaches for the best flavor. They should be slightly soft to the touch but not mushy.

• Adjust sweetness: Depending on your peach variety, you may need to adjust sugar levels. Taste your peaches and modify sugar accordingly.

• Use tapioca starch: Opt for tapioca starch instead of cornstarch as it creates a smoother filling without being overly thick.

• Prebake the crust: For an extra flaky crust, consider prebaking the bottom layer before adding the filling, especially if using juicy peaches.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Peach Pie

Pairing side dishes with The Best Peach Pie can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Salad
   A light salad featuring grilled chicken adds protein and balances out the sweetness of the pie.

2. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait
   Layered yogurt with granola and fruits makes for an excellent light side dish that complements dessert.

3. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese offers savory contrast to the sweet peach pie.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a hearty side that contrasts nicely with dessert flavors.

5. Savory Cornbread
   A slice of warm cornbread can add texture and slight sweetness, enhancing your dining experience.

6. Mixed Greens Salad
   A refreshing mixed greens salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast to rich flavors in the pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Peach Pie, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the peach ripeness: Using unripe or overripe peaches can spoil the flavor. Always choose fresh, ripe peaches for the best results.
• Cutting peaches too thin: Thin slices can lead to a mushy filling. Cut your peaches into 1-inch cubes for texture and stability.
• Skipping the tapioca starch: This ingredient helps thicken the filling. Omitting it can result in a soupy pie. Make sure to include it for perfect consistency.
• Overbaking the pie: Keep an eye on your pie as it bakes. Overbaking can lead to a burnt crust and dry filling. Aim for a golden-brown crust and bubbling filling.
• Neglecting the egg wash: An egg wash gives your pie a beautiful, glossy finish. Don’t skip this step if you want a visually appealing dessert.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pie in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing The Best Peach Pie

• Wrap the cooled pie tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating The Best Peach Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about The Best Peach Pie:

Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure they are thawed and drained well before using them in your pie.

What is the secret ingredient in The Best Peach Pie?

The secret ingredient is smoked paprika, which enhances the sweet peach flavor and adds depth to your filling.

How do I tell when my peach pie is done baking?

Your pie is done when the crust is golden brown and you see bubbles coming from the filling.

Can I make The Best Peach Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What should I serve with The Best Peach Pie?

A dollop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream pairs perfectly with this delightful dessert!

Final Thoughts

The Best Peach Pie is not only delicious but also versatile enough to customize according to your taste. Whether you prefer adding spices or experimenting with different toppings, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try and enjoy each comforting slice!