Best Homemade Peach Pie – Flaky Crust & Sweet Filling Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that truly captures the essence of summer, look no further. This Best Homemade Peach Pie – Flaky Crust & Sweet Filling Recipe brings together juicy, tender peaches nestled beneath a perfectly flaky, buttery crust. Every bite sings with the warmth of cinnamon and the brightness of lemon, balanced by just the right amount of sweetness. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night at home, this pie is pure comfort and joy in every slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture that make this pie unforgettable. From the fresh peaches bursting with natural sweetness to the perfectly flaky crust components, every element plays an essential role.

• Fresh peaches: About 6–7 cups sliced from 8–9 medium peaches; ripe but firm peaches are key for a juicy yet stable filling.
• Granulated sugar: Provides the base sweetness that enhances peach flavor without overpowering.
• Light brown sugar: Adds a gentle caramel note that deepens the overall taste of the filling.
• Cornstarch: Acts as a thickening agent to keep the filling perfectly set and not runny.
• Lemon juice: Brightens and balances the sweetness, while optional lemon zest adds fragrant citrus notes.
• Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and a smooth finish to the peach filling.
• Ground cinnamon: Optional but highly recommended for a hint of spice that complements the peaches beautifully.
• Pinch of nutmeg: Adds subtle depth and warmth to the spice profile.
• Unsalted butter (cold): Used in the crust and dotted over the filling for richness and flakiness.
• Vegetable shortening (cold): Optional but makes the crust extra tender and flaky.
• All-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy yet tender base of the crust.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness perfectly.
• Ice water: Keeps the dough cold and helps bind ingredients without activating gluten too much.
• Egg (for egg wash): Provides a glossy, golden crust finish.
• Coarse sugar: Optional for sprinkling on top, adding sparkle and a crunchy contrast.

How to Make Best Homemade Peach Pie – Flaky Crust & Sweet Filling Recipe

Step 1: Craft the Pie Dough

Begin by whisking your flour and salt in a large bowl – the foundation for your flaky crust. Cut in cold cubed butter and shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The key is to keep everything cold so you get those beautiful, flaky layers. Slowly add ice water, just until the dough begins to come together, handling it as little as possible.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough into two disks, wrap them tightly, and chill for at least an hour. This resting period is crucial – it firms up the fat again and relaxes the gluten, ensuring a tender and flaky crust when baked.

Step 3: Prepare Fresh Peaches

Peel your peaches if you prefer, then slice them about half an inch thick. You want 6 to 7 cups of peach slices. If the peaches are very juicy, lightly blot them with a paper towel to prevent sogginess while baking.

Step 4: Mix the Sweet Peach Filling

In a large bowl, combine peaches with granular sugars, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The cornstarch helps thicken the juices released by the peaches, while the spices and vanilla elevate the flavor beautifully. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to meld flavors and release natural juices.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven and Prepare for Baking

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a baking sheet on the middle rack to preheat. This technique helps set the bottom crust quickly, preventing it from becoming soggy once the filling is added.

Step 6: Roll and Fit the Bottom Crust

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disk into a 12-inch circle. Fit it gently into a 9-inch pie dish, allowing a slight overhang. Pop it into the fridge while you prepare the top crust.

Step 7: Fill and Dot with Butter

Spoon the peach filling into the chilled crust, making sure to include all the luscious juices. Dot the filling with small pats of cold butter for an extra layer of rich, buttery flavor.

Step 8: Top with Crust or Lattice

Roll the second dough disk to the same size. You can either lay it on top whole and cut slits to let steam escape or create a beautiful lattice pattern by weaving strips of dough. Trim any overhang and crimp the edges to seal your pie.

Step 9: Apply Egg Wash and Sprinkle Sugar

Brush the top crust with a beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water to achieve a glossy finish. For an eye-catching and textural touch, sprinkle coarse sugar over the crust.

Step 10: Bake the Pie to Perfection

Place the pie on the preheated baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 20 minutes to jump-start the crust’s golden color. Then lower the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 35–45 minutes until deep golden and bubbling through the vents.

Step 11: Shield the Edges if Needed

If you notice the crust edges browning too quickly, cover them with foil or a pie shield for the last 20 to 25 minutes of baking to prevent burning.

Step 12: Cool Completely for Perfect Slices

Allow the pie to cool on a rack for at least 3 to 4 hours. This patiently lets the filling thicken and set, ensuring your slices hold together beautifully when served.

Step 13: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice with a sharp knife and serve warm or at room temperature. It’s delightful on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream truly elevates the experience.

How to Serve Best Homemade Peach Pie – Flaky Crust & Sweet Filling Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar instantly adds an elegant touch. For an indulgent twist, a drizzle of honey or caramel sauce complements the pie’s sweetness amazingly.

Side Dishes

Serve your peach pie alongside a simple mixed green salad with tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness, or enjoy with a creamy bowl of homemade custard to keep things comforting and cozy.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the pie dish by turning leftover slices into warm peach pie hand pies or topping pancakes for a decadent breakfast treat. You can also serve wedges on pretty dessert plates with edible flowers for a charming presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover peach pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It stays delicious for up to 4 days, giving you plenty of chances to savor those flaky, sweet layers.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked pie after assembling; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Reheating

Warm individual slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes to revive that flaky crust and luscious filling. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust crisp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make the filling runny. You might want to reduce the cornstarch slightly if they are very juicy.

Why is my pie crust not flaky?

Flakiness depends on keeping the dough cold and not overworking it. Using cold butter and shortening, chilling your dough, and handling it gently all contribute to that tender, flaky texture.

Do I have to peel the peaches?

Peeling is optional. If you love a rustic pie with extra texture, leave the skins on. For a smoother, more refined filling, peeling is best, especially if the peach skins are tough or fuzzy.

How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?

Preheating a baking sheet in the oven helps set the bottom crust quickly. Also, draining excess juices from very juicy peaches and using enough cornstarch to thicken the filling will keep your crust crisp.

Can I make this pie vegan?

To make a vegan version, replace butter with vegan butter and use a plant-based milk mixed with maple syrup instead of egg wash. The filling ingredients are naturally vegan, so it’s an easy swap!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Best Homemade Peach Pie – Flaky Crust & Sweet Filling Recipe. It’s a comforting classic that brings the joy of fresh peaches into a buttery, flaky crust that you’ll want to bake again and again. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a go — your kitchen will soon be filled with the irresistible aroma of summer sweetness, and you’ll be making memories with every delicious slice.

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