This easy homemade peach pie bursts with fresh fruit flavors and a lovely golden crust. It’s like a slice of summer on your plate, sweet and juicy!
There’s nothing like the smell of peach pie baking in the oven. I love to serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for that extra yum factor! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are key to a great pie. If they’re out of season, you can use canned peaches (just drain and reduce sugar). Consider frozen peaches as another alternative, but they may need a bit longer to bake.
Sugars: I love combining granulated and brown sugar for depth in flavor. If you want to cut down on sugar, you can use honey or maple syrup instead, just adjust the quantity based on sweetness preference.
Cornstarch: This thickens the filling. If you’re looking for an alternative, try using arrowroot or all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that flour may create a cloudier filling compared to cornstarch.
Pie Crust: Store-bought pie crusts are a great time-saver! If you prefer homemade, it’s fun to experiment with different recipes; try adding a bit of sugar to sweeten the crust.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Pie Crust?
Getting the crust just right can be tricky! Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect flaky texture:
- Keep your ingredients cold—this helps create a tender crust. Use cold butter and ice-cold water.
- Don’t overwork the dough; mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough crust.
- Chill your pie crust before baking for a more stable, flaky result.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges, sealing in all that juicy filling!
Follow these tips, and your pie will surely turn out delicious! Enjoy every slice of your homemade peach pie!
Easy Homemade Peach Pie with Fresh Fruit
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 5 to 6 large ripe peaches (about 4 cups sliced)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 package (14 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade double pie crust)
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for sprinkling on crust)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious peach pie will take about 20 minutes to prepare, plus 50 to 60 minutes to bake. Additionally, allow at least 2 hours for it to cool and set before serving. In total, you’ll need roughly 3 hours from start to finish. A little patience goes a long way for the best pie!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve a perfectly golden crust.
2. Prepare the Peaches:
Peel the peaches and slice them into about 1/4-inch thick slices. Place the sliced peaches in a large mixing bowl.
3. Mix the Filling:
Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and lemon juice to the peaches. Gently toss everything together until the peaches are coated. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the juices to start to come out.
4. Prepare the Crust:
Roll out one of the pie crusts and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Press it down gently along the bottom and sides to avoid any air pockets.
5. Fill the Pie Crust:
Pour the peach filling into the crust, spreading it out evenly. Dot the filling with small pieces of the butter for added richness.
6. Add the Top Crust:
Roll out the second pie crust and carefully place it over the peach filling. Trim off any excess dough from the edges, then crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork to seal the pie.
7. Create Steam Vents:
Using a sharp knife, cut a few small slits in the top crust. This is to allow steam to escape while the pie bakes, preventing it from becoming soggy.
8. Brush and Sprinkle:
Brush the top crust lightly with the beaten egg. This will give it a beautiful golden color. Finish with a sprinkle of coarse sugar for a lovely crunch.
9. Bake the Pie:
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 35 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the crust is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbling.
10. Cool the Pie:
If the edges of your pie are browning too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil for the last 15 to 20 minutes of baking. Once done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 2 hours. This waiting time helps the filling to set perfectly.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
After cooling, slice the pie and serve it warm or at room temperature. It’s delightful on its own or topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream!
With these simple steps, you’ll have a delicious homemade peach pie that’s sure to impress everyone. Enjoy every bite of your fresh fruit creation!
FAQ for Easy Homemade Peach Pie
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh Ones?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches for this recipe! Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture before mixing them with the sugars and cornstarch to avoid a watery filling.
How Do I Know When the Pie is Done Baking?
Your pie is done when the crust is golden brown and you see bubbles in the peach filling. If the crust browns too quickly, cover the edges with foil and continue baking until fully cooked!
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble the pie a day in advance, then refrigerate it uncooked. Bake it the next day, or if you bake it ahead of time, store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Peach Pie?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
These FAQ answers should help clarify some common questions and ensure your peach pie turns out fantastic! Enjoy your baking!