The Best Peach Pie

The Best Peach Pie is a delightful dessert that brings together the flavors of summer in every bite. With a gooey peach filling made from fresh peaches and a buttery crust, this pie is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply enjoying a slice with your favorite vanilla ice cream. What sets it apart is a surprising touch of smoked paprika, which enhances the sweetness of the peaches and adds depth to the flavor. Say goodbye to all other peach pie recipes—this one truly reigns supreme!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of fresh peaches and smoked paprika creates a unique taste that will impress your guests.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this delicious pie without stress.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm or cold, with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream; this pie fits any occasion.
• Perfect Texture: The recipe ensures a balanced filling that is juicy but not overly mushy, thanks to the cubed peaches.
• Family Favorite: With its comforting flavors, this pie can easily become a beloved dish passed down through generations.

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Tools and Preparation

To make The Best Peach Pie, gather your essential tools and ingredients. Having the right equipment helps streamline the process and ensures perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie dish: A sturdy pie dish ensures an even bake and helps maintain the shape of your pie.
• Rolling pin: This tool is crucial for rolling out your dough evenly, which leads to a perfectly flaky crust.
• Mixing bowls: Different sizes help in preparing and mixing various components without creating a mess.

Ingredients

For The Best Peach Pie, you will need the following 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: Prepare 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: Cube 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: Combine Ingredients for 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 the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400F (200C).

Step 5: Assemble 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 it into the pie plate, then add in the peach filling making sure you pour in all extra liquid that’s in the bowl.

Step 6: Create Lattice Crust for Top Layer

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 six strips about two inches wide each. Lay the strips of pie dough over and under one another, pulling back strips as needed to weave. Cut off any extra dough from the ends of the strips. Press them into the bottom layer of the crust and flute or crimp the edges.

Step 7: Make Egg Wash

In a small bowl, beat together:
Egg yolk
Milk

Brush this mixture over the prepared lattice top. Sprinkle with sugar and add small butter cubes on top of the peach filling where there are gaps from the lattice.

Step 8: Bake Your Pie

Bake in the middle rack of your oven for 40–50 minutes, or until bubbling occurs in your filling. If browning too quickly, cover with aluminum foil. Allow cooling at room temperature for about two to three hours before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve The Best Peach Pie

Serving The Best Peach Pie is all about enhancing the delicious flavors of the pie while providing a delightful experience for your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert.

A La Mode

• Serve warm slices of peach pie with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a classic combination that enhances the sweetness of the peaches.

Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with homemade whipped cream for a light and airy finish that complements the gooey peach filling perfectly.

Caramel Drizzle

• Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice for an indulgent twist that adds richness and depth to the fruity flavors.

Nutty Crumble

• Sprinkle chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, on top for added crunch and texture, creating a delightful contrast to the soft peaches.

Citrus Zest

• Grate fresh lemon or lime zest over the pie just before serving to brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing touch.

Mint Garnish

• Add a sprig of fresh mint on top of each serving for a pop of color and an aromatic hint that lifts the dish’s overall appeal.

How to Perfect The Best Peach Pie

To ensure you create The Best Peach Pie, consider these helpful tips. They can significantly improve both flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Peaches: Opt for ripe, seasonal peaches for the best flavor. The natural sweetness will shine through in your filling.

• Control Sweetness: Taste your peaches before adding sugar. Depending on their ripeness, you might need less sugar than the recipe calls for.

• Avoid Soggy Bottoms: Pre-baking the pie crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling can help prevent it from becoming soggy.

• Don’t Skimp on Spices: The addition of smoked paprika or cinnamon brings out rich flavors in the peaches. Experiment with different spices for unique variations.

• Let It Cool: Allowing your pie to cool completely before slicing helps set up the filling, making it easier to cut neat slices.

• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like crumbles or flavored ice creams to find your favorite combination.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Peach Pie

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

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the fruity flavors beautifully while adding creaminess.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, sweet pie.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses such as brie or goat cheese adds savory notes that balance out the sweetness.
4. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layering Greek yogurt with granola and berries provides a healthy and tasty side that contrasts nicely with pie.
5. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette can cleanse the palate between bites of sweet pie.
6. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips dusted with cinnamon sugar can serve as a fun crunchy side that echoes some flavors of the pie.
7. Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage can complement dessert beautifully, enhancing its flavors while providing warmth after a meal.
8. Sparkling Water with Citrus: Refreshing sparkling water infused with citrus fruits cleanses your palate and adds a zesty note that pairs well with peach desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making The Best Peach Pie can be a delightful experience, but common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Using Overripe Peaches: Overripe peaches can lead to a mushy filling. Choose firm, slightly soft peaches for the best texture.
• Skipping the Tapioca Starch: Not using tapioca starch may result in a runny filling. This ingredient helps thicken the juices for the perfect consistency.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can affect cooking times and the pie’s structure. Always preheat to ensure even baking.
• Cutting Slices Too Soon: Cutting into the pie before it cools will cause the filling to spill out. Allow it to cool for at least 2-3 hours before slicing.
• Ignoring Egg Wash: Skipping the egg wash leads to a dull crust. An egg wash gives your pie a beautiful golden finish and enhances flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It stays fresh for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing The Best Peach Pie

• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating The Best Peach Pie

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover it, and heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Best Peach Pie special?

The secret ingredient, paprika, enhances the peach flavor, giving it a unique twist that sets it apart from typical peach pies.

Can I use frozen peaches for The Best Peach Pie?

Yes! You can use frozen peaches; just make sure they are thawed and drained well before adding them to your filling.

How do I know when The Best Peach Pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the filling bubbles and the crust is golden brown. This usually takes about 40-50 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

What are some variations of The Best Peach Pie?

You can customize this recipe by adding berries or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for different flavors!

How long does The Best Peach Pie last?

When stored properly, it lasts for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator and up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

The appeal of The Best Peach Pie lies in its delightful balance of sweet, juicy peaches and buttery crust enhanced by a touch of smoked paprika. This recipe is versatile; you can easily customize it by adding different fruits or spices. Try making it today and enjoy a slice of summer all year round!