Creating the perfect peach pie starts with a flaky, tender crust. A combination of shortening and butter is recommended for the dough.

Dear Lykkers! Butter ensures flavor and flakiness, while shortening provides structure and keeps the crust tender.

Crust Tips:

Chill the dough for at least 2 hours before rolling it out.

Prepare two crusts—one for the base and one for the top.

No need to pre-bake; the long baking time ensures the crust cooks perfectly.

For an artistic touch, braid or lattice the top crust.

Choosing the Right Peaches

The quality of peaches significantly impacts the pie. Slightly firm yellow peaches with no bruises or soft spots are ideal. If not immediately ripe, place the peaches in a paper bag for 1–2 days.

Key Tips:

Avoid overly soft or stringy peaches as they can lead to a mushy filling.

Fresh peaches are the best choice. If using frozen peaches, ensure they are thawed, chopped, and dried thoroughly.

Preparing the Filling

The filling combines just seven ingredients for a perfectly balanced flavor:

Ingredients:

Peaches: Chop into 1-inch chunks for optimal texture.

Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the filling, but brown sugar can be used for a richer flavor.

Flour: Helps thicken the filling effectively without becoming paste-like.

Lemon Juice: Enhances the freshness of the peaches.

Ginger (Optional): Adds a subtle zing for a unique twist.

Cinnamon: Infuses warmth and complements the peach flavor.

Butter: Small cubes of butter enrich the filling as it bakes.

Top Crust and Design

Adding the top crust can be as creative as you like. Options include a lattice design, braids, or even a crumble topping. Whichever design is chosen, an egg wash will give the crust a golden sheen and crisp texture. Sprinkle with coarse sugar for added sparkle.

Baking and Cooling

Proper baking and cooling are crucial to achieving a pie that’s juicy yet sliceable.

Baking Tips:

Start with a high temperature of 425°F (218°C) for 20 minutes, then lower to 375°F (190°C) for the remainder.

Bake for 75–80 minutes until the filling bubbles across the surface.

Use a baking sheet on the rack below to catch any drips.

Cooling Tips:

Allow the pie to cool completely for at least 4 hours before slicing. This ensures the filling sets properly and avoids a soupy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair each slice of peach pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. The combination of warm spices, juicy peaches, and creamy ice cream creates an irresistible dessert experience.

Embrace these tips and techniques for a peach pie that’s not only delicious but also a visual masterpiece.