The Best Peach Pie

The Best Peach Pie is the ultimate dessert choice for summer gatherings, picnics, or family dinners. This recipe features a gooey peach filling made from fresh peaches, encased in a buttery crust that is both flaky and satisfying. The unique addition of smoked paprika adds a delightful twist, enhancing the natural sweetness of the peaches. Whether served warm with vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this pie is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of fresh peaches and smoked paprika makes for an incredibly delicious filling that stands out from other peach pies.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, anyone can bake this pie even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, from potlucks to holiday dinners, this pie is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
• Homemade Feel: Using a homemade or store-bought crust gives you the option to customize it based on your time and preference.
• Gooey Texture: The use of tapioca starch ensures that the filling is perfectly thickened without being overly runny.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking The Best Peach Pie, gather your tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie dish: Provides the perfect shape for your pie while ensuring even baking.
• Rolling pin: Helps you achieve a thin, even layer of dough for your crust.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Pastry brush: Perfect for applying egg wash to create a golden crust.

Ingredients

To make The Best Peach Pie, you’ll need the following 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 The Best Peach Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Pie Crust

Make the pie crust following my Homemade Pie Crust recipe or use your favorite pie crust recipe. This step can be done one 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, and fillings with sliced peaches can easily turn out mushy.

Step 3: Make the Peach Filling

In a large bowl, add:
* Cubed peaches
* Lemon or lime juice
* Sugar
* Tapioca starch
* Vanilla extract
* Smoked or regular paprika (or cinnamon)

Stir until combined.

Step 4: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 400F (200C).

Step 5: Assemble Your Pie

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one of the chilled discs of pie dough into a 12-inch (30 cm) circle. Fit it into a 9-inch (22 cm) pie dish. Pour in the peach filling along with all extra liquid from the bowl.

Step 6: Create the Lattice Crust

Roll out the second disc of pie dough into another 12-inch circle. Cut out six strips about 2 inches wide each. Weave them over and under each other on top of your filling and trim any excess dough from ends. Press down on edges to seal.

Step 7: Apply Egg Wash

In a small bowl, beat together one egg yolk with milk until smooth. Brush over the crust and sprinkle with sugar. Dot small butter cubes on top of peach filling where there are gaps in lattice.

Step 8: Bake Your Pie

Bake in the middle rack for 40-50 minutes or until filling bubbles. Let cool to room temperature for about 2-3 hours before serving. Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve The Best Peach Pie

Serving The Best Peach Pie is all about enhancing its delightful flavors. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dessert that will elevate your dining experience.

A La Mode

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of a warm slice for a classic combination that perfectly balances the sweetness of the pie.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream can add a fluffy texture and creamy element that complements the peach filling wonderfully.

Accompanied by Fresh Berries

• Serve alongside fresh strawberries or blueberries for a burst of tartness that contrasts nicely with the sweet peaches.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel adds a rich sweetness, making each bite even more indulgent.

Paired with Greek Yogurt

• For a lighter option, serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt, which adds creaminess and a slight tang to balance the pie’s sweetness.

With Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy alongside your favorite herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee for an afternoon treat that rounds out the meal perfectly.

How to Perfect The Best Peach Pie

To achieve the ultimate peach pie experience, consider these essential tips for making The Best Peach Pie.

• Use Ripe Peaches: Ensure your peaches are perfectly ripe for maximum flavor and natural sweetness in your filling.
• Chill Your Crust: Keep your pie crust cool before baking to ensure it maintains its flaky texture and doesn’t become soggy.
• Avoid Slicing Peaches: Cube your peaches instead of slicing them to prevent mushiness in the filling and maintain a better texture.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to use cinnamon instead of paprika for a different flavor profile, depending on your taste preference.
• Let It Cool Properly: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing; this will help the filling set properly and make serving easier.
• Store Correctly: Keep any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Peach Pie

Pairing side dishes with The Best Peach Pie can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A creamy classic that melts into the warm pie, creating a delightful contrast in textures.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate after enjoying rich peach pie.
3. Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses can complement the sweetness while adding depth to your meal.
4. Nutty Granola: Serve some crunchy granola on the side for added texture and nutty flavor that pairs well with peaches.
5. Crispy Kale Chips: These provide a savory crunch that balances out the sweetness of the pie while adding health benefits.
6. Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing sorbet can cleanse the palate between bites and offers a zesty contrast to sweet flavors.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness can provide an interesting contrast when enjoyed alongside peach pie.
8. Herb Salad: A simple salad with fresh herbs and lemon vinaigrette adds brightness and enhances overall flavor profiles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your peach pie even more delicious. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold crust preparation: Skipping the chilling process for your pie crust can lead to a tough texture. Always chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
• Bold overcooking peaches: Cutting peaches too small or cooking them too long can make the filling mushy. Cube them into 1-inch pieces to maintain texture.
• Bold ignoring spices: Not adding spices like paprika or cinnamon may result in a bland pie. Incorporate these ingredients to enhance the flavor profile of your filling.
• Bold inadequate cooling time: Serving the pie immediately after baking can lead to a soupy filling. Allow it to cool for at least 2-3 hours before slicing for the best results.
• Bold neglecting egg wash: Skipping the egg wash might mean missing out on that beautiful golden crust. Brush your crust generously before baking for an attractive finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pie in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing The Best Peach Pie

• Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Peach Pie

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The Best Peach Pie:

What makes The Best Peach Pie different from others?

The secret ingredient, smoked paprika, enhances the sweetness of the peaches and adds depth to the flavor, making this pie truly unique.

Can I use frozen peaches instead?

Absolutely! You can make an easy peach pie with frozen peaches. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before using them in the recipe.

How do I prevent my pie crust from getting soggy?

To avoid a soggy crust, blind bake it slightly before adding the peach filling. This helps create a barrier against moisture.

How should I serve The Best Peach Pie?

Serving it warm with a dollop of vanilla ice cream complements the flavors beautifully and enhances the overall experience.

Final Thoughts

The Best Peach Pie is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings together sweet, juicy peaches with a flaky crust enhanced by unexpected flavors. You can customize it by adding different spices or adjusting sweetness according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!