Peach Pie

Posted in Recipe Collections / Grammie’s Recipes: From the Kitchen of Elsie Damren
Peach Pie
Summer in a crust – that's what a Peach Pie brings to the table, with each bite encapsulating the warmth and brightness of sunny days. This recipe simplifies the essence of summer into a delightful dessert, featuring ripe, juicy peaches enveloped in a flaky, golden crust, subtly enhanced with a touch of lemon for balance. Let's embark on a baking journey that celebrates the peach in its purest form, making for a pie that's as satisfying to craft as it is to savor.

Ingredients

  • Your favorite pie crust recipe (enough for a bottom and top crust)
  • 4-5 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2½ tablespoons cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Peach Filling Preparation: In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, salt, cornstarch, and water. Add the sliced peaches to the mixture, ensuring they're well-coated.

  2. Cook the Mixture: Bring the peach mixture to a boil, stirring constantly, and let it boil for 1 minute. This process thickens the filling and concentrates the flavors.

  3. Cool and Enhance: Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Stir in the lemon juice for a hint of brightness.

  4. Assemble the Pie: Pour the cooled peach filling into your prepared pie shell. Cover with the top crust, sealing the edges and cutting slits for steam to escape.

  5. Bake to Perfection: Bake the pie on the lower shelf of a preheated oven at 425°F for about 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

  6. Serving Suggestions: Serve this Peach Pie warm or at room temperature, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a classic pairing that never fails to delight.

Peach Pie: A Celebration of Summer’s Bounty

In every slice of Peach Pie lies the story of summer: the sun-drenched orchards, the fragrance of ripe peaches, and the joy of gathering around a table with loved ones. This recipe not only captures the essence of the season but also invites us into a tradition of baking that transcends generations. With each bite, we’re reminded of the simple pleasures that define the warmer months.

The Peach: A Fruit with History

The peach, with its velvety skin and juicy flesh, has long been a symbol of summer’s abundance. Originating from China, this beloved fruit made its way across the ancient world, becoming a staple in cuisines from Asia to the Mediterranean. In crafting our Peach Pie, we pay homage to this journey, bringing a taste of history into our kitchens.

Crafting the Perfect Peach Pie

  • Peach Preparation: To maximize flavor, choose ripe but firm peaches that will hold their shape during baking. A blanching method can make peeling easier, preserving the delicate flesh for your pie.
  • The Crust: A flaky, buttery crust is essential. For an extra golden finish, brush the crust with a mixture of egg wash before baking. Incorporating a pinch of cinnamon into the dough can also complement the sweetness of the peaches.
  • The Filling: The secret to a perfect filling lies in balance. The cornstarch ensures it thickens just right, while the lemon juice adds a bright note that highlights the peaches’ natural sweetness.

Variations to Explore

While the classic Peach Pie is a marvel in its own right, don’t hesitate to experiment with variations:

  • Spiced Peach Pie: Add a dash of ginger or cardamom to the filling for a warm, spiced undertone.
  • Peach Crumble Pie: For a twist, top your pie with a crumble mixture before baking, offering a delightful contrast of textures.
  • Peaches and Cream Pie: Incorporate a layer of sweetened cream cheese beneath the peach filling for a decadent twist.

The Joy of Sharing

Perhaps the true beauty of Peach Pie lies in its ability to bring people together. Whether it’s a family gathering, a summer picnic, or a simple weekday dessert, this pie has the power to turn any meal into a celebration.

A Pie for All Seasons

While peaches may peak in summer, the essence of this pie can be captured year-round using canned peaches, allowing you to revisit the warmth of summer even on the coldest days.

Nutrition Facts

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Servings Per Recipe: 8
  • Calories: 641

% Daily Value

  • Total Fat: 3.5g (4% DV)
  • Saturated Fat: 0.8g (4% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 0mg (0% DV)
  • Sodium: 2508mg (109% DV)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 147.7g (54% DV)
  • Dietary Fiber: 2.6g (9% DV)
  • Total Sugars: 24.6g
  • Protein: 1.7g
  • Vitamin D: 0mcg (0% DV)
  • Calcium: 8mg (1% DV)
  • iron: 1mg (6% DV)
  • Potassium: 174mg (4% DV)

Note: The “% Daily Value” (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Recipe analyzed by verywell.