The Best Peach Pie

The Best Peach Pie is a delightful dessert that showcases the sweet and juicy flavors of summer peaches. With its gooey peach filling nestled in a buttery pie crust, this pie is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to festive celebrations. What sets this recipe apart is the unique addition of smoked paprika, enhancing the natural sweetness of the peaches and giving it a warm, inviting flavor. Forget all other peach pie recipes; this one will become your go-to favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of fresh peaches and smoked paprika creates a unique taste that elevates traditional peach pie.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with easy-to-find ingredients, this pie is accessible for everyone to enjoy.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for summer picnics or cozy dinners, it pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Homemade Goodness: Using a homemade crust adds a personal touch that’s hard to replicate with store-bought options.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this deliciously sweet dessert.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making The Best Peach Pie, gather your essential tools and equipment. Having everything at hand will ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pie dish
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Knife
• Pastry cutter or sharp knife (for lattice)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie dish: Ensures even cooking and provides the perfect shape for your pie.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough evenly for a beautiful crust.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Baking sheet: Catches any drips while baking, keeping your oven clean.

Ingredients

To make The Best Peach Pie, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Pie 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: Make the Pie Crust

Make the pie crust following my Homemade Pie Crust recipe or use your favorite pie crust recipe. This step can be done 1 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). I don’t recommend slicing as peaches are very soft and juicy; fillings with sliced peaches can easily turn out mushy.

Step 3: Make the Peach Filling

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

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 5: Prepare the Pie Dish

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 it into the pie plate and add in the peach filling, making sure to pour in all extra liquid from the bowl.

Step 6: Create the Lattice Crust

Remove the second disc of pie dough from the refrigerator and roll it out into a 12-inch (30 cm) circle. Use a knife to cut out 6 strips about 2-inches wide (about 5 cm). Lay these strips over and under one another to create a lattice pattern. Press them into the bottom layer of the crust and flute or crimp the edges.

Step 7: Apply Egg Wash

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

Step 8: Bake Your Pie

Bake in the middle rack of your oven for 40-50 minutes or until you see bubbling in your pie filling. Allow it to cook an additional 3-5 minutes after bubbling starts. If necessary, cover with aluminum foil if browning too quickly. Let cool at room temperature for about 2-3 hours before serving and enjoy!

How to Serve The Best Peach Pie

Serving The Best Peach Pie can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this classic treat.

A La Mode

• Serve a slice of peach pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a creamy contrast to the sweet, juicy filling.

Whipped Cream Delight

• Top your peach pie with a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream. The lightness of the cream complements the richness of the pie beautifully.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Add a side of fresh berries or sliced peaches to enhance the fruity flavors. This adds freshness and color to your plate.

Caramel Drizzle

• Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice for an indulgent touch. The sweet and buttery flavor pairs perfectly with the peach filling.

Yogurt Parfait Style

• Layer slices of peach pie in a glass with yogurt and granola for a fun twist. This makes for a delightful breakfast or brunch option.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve with a cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness of the pie. A light roast coffee enhances the flavors without overpowering them.

How to Perfect The Best Peach Pie

Creating The Best Peach Pie involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose ripe peaches: For maximum flavor, select fresh, ripe peaches that yield slightly when pressed.
• Use cold ingredients: Keep your butter and water cold when making the pie crust to achieve a flaky texture.
• Avoid slicing peaches: Cut peaches into 1-inch cubes instead of slices to maintain texture and prevent mushiness.
• Let it cool: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set up nicely.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to substitute smoked paprika with cinnamon or nutmeg for different flavor profiles.
• Cover if browning too fast: If the crust is getting too dark during baking, cover it loosely with foil.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Peach Pie

Pairing side dishes with The Best Peach Pie can enhance your meal. Here are some great side options that complement this delicious dessert.

1. Ice Cream Sundae: Scoops of ice cream topped with chocolate syrup and nuts make an excellent pairing.
2. Fresh Salad: A light mixed greens salad drizzled with vinaigrette balances out the sweetness of the pie.
3. Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, adds savory notes that contrast well with sweet fruit.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits complements the flavors in your peach pie.
5. Nut Brittle: Crunchy nut brittle offers a delightful textural contrast alongside each slice of pie.
6. Chocolate Mousse: For chocolate lovers, a rich chocolate mousse serves as an elegant side that pairs beautifully with fruit desserts.
7. Pecan Crust Cookies: These cookies echo nutty flavors that work excellently alongside your peach filling.
8. Lemon Sorbet: A light lemon sorbet provides a refreshing palate cleanser after enjoying your peach pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect peach pie can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Bold phrase: Using Sliced Peaches – Slicing peaches may lead to a mushy filling. Instead, cube the peaches for better texture and bite.
• Bold phrase: Skipping the Lemon Juice – Not adding lemon or lime juice can result in overly sweet pie. This acidity balances the sweetness of the peaches, enhancing their flavor.
• Bold phrase: Overbaking – Baking too long can cause the filling to dry out. Keep an eye on the pie and remove it when the filling is bubbling for optimal results.
• Bold phrase: Ignoring Egg Wash – Omitting egg wash will leave your crust dull and unappealing. A simple brush of egg wash gives a beautiful golden finish.
• Bold phrase: Not Allowing to Cool – Cutting into the pie immediately can lead to a runny filling. Letting it cool for a few hours helps it set properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the pie at room temperature for no more than 2 hours before refrigerating.

Freezing The Best Peach Pie

• Freeze the pie for up to 3 months if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• For best results, freeze before baking. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

Reheating The Best Peach Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-45 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding The Best Peach Pie that might help you perfect your baking skills!

Can I use frozen peaches for The Best Peach Pie?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using them in the recipe.

What can I substitute for tapioca starch?

You can substitute tapioca starch with cornstarch or arrowroot flour if needed; just adjust the quantity slightly as they may have different thickening properties.

How do I know when my peach pie is done?

The Best Peach Pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling bubbles. This usually takes about 40-50 minutes in a preheated oven.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can mix or substitute other fruits like blueberries or cherries alongside peaches for added flavor.

What makes this peach pie recipe unique?

The secret ingredient—smoked paprika—adds a warm depth of flavor that enhances the sweetness of the peaches without overpowering them.

Final Thoughts

The Best Peach Pie is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re enjoying it warm with ice cream or at room temperature, this pie is sure to impress. Feel free to customize it by adding spices or mixing in different fruits for variations that suit your taste!