Ingredients
A Short History of Peach Pie
Peach pie has deep roots in American baking, particularly across the South, where peach orchards have flourished for generations. Long before it became a symbol of Southern hospitality, peach pie was simply a practical way for home cooks to use an abundant summer harvest before the fruit spoiled. The lattice top became a popular way to showcase the vibrant peach filling underneath, transforming a humble fruit pie into the show-stopping dessert we know today.
Ingredients for Fresh Peach Pie
Here’s what you’ll need for this fresh peach pie recipe, made in a 9-inch pie dish.
For the crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water
For the filling:
- 6 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (about 6–7 medium peaches)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
For finishing:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse or granulated sugar, for sprinkling
Instructions
How to Make Fresh Peach Pie Step by Step
This fresh peach pie recipe takes a bit of patience for the crust, but the payoff is well worth it.
Step 1: Make the Pie Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter throughout. Add the ice water a tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Prep the Peaches
Peel and slice the peaches into a large bowl. Toss with the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and cinnamon until evenly coated. Let sit for about 15 minutes to release some of the juices.
Step 3: Roll Out the Bottom Crust
On a floured surface, roll one disc of dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess overhang, leaving about an inch.
Step 4: Fill the Pie
Spoon the peach filling into the crust, spreading it evenly. Dot the top with the small pieces of butter.
Step 5: Weave the Lattice Top
Roll the second disc of dough into a 10 to 12-inch circle and cut into even strips, about 1 inch wide. Lay half the strips across the pie in one direction, then weave the remaining strips perpendicularly, over and under, to create a lattice pattern. Trim and crimp the edges to seal.
Step 6: Brush and Bake
Brush the lattice top with beaten egg and sprinkle generously with coarse sugar. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F and continue baking for 30 to 35 minutes, until the crust is deep golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Step 7: Cool Before Slicing
Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. This resting time is essential for the filling to set properly.
Picture the Finished Fresh Peach Pie
Imagine a golden lattice-topped pie resting on a wire cooling rack, its woven crust deeply browned and dusted with sugar, thick peach filling just visible through the gaps. One slice, cut and set on a wooden board, reveals glistening peach slices layered beneath a flaky, golden crust, the syrup pooling gently at the edges. That’s exactly the moment this fresh peach pie recipe is built to deliver.
Tips for Fresh Peach Pie Success
- Use ripe but firm peaches. Overripe peaches release too much liquid and can make the filling watery.
- Let the pie cool completely before slicing, or the filling won’t have time to set.
- Keep your butter and water ice cold when making the crust for the flakiest results.
- Bake on a baking sheet to catch any bubbling juices and keep your oven clean.
Nutritional Values (Per Slice, 8 Servings)
- Calories: approximately 380
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fat: 17g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
These values are estimates and will vary depending on the ripeness of your peaches and exact ingredients used.