The Best Peach Pie

Published: August 8, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of fresh peaches with smoked paprika creates a unique taste that elevates this pie above the rest.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delicious dessert.
Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm or cold, with ice cream or whipped cream; this pie fits any occasion!
Perfect Texture: The use of cubed peaches instead of slices ensures a firm yet juicy filling that doesn’t get mushy.
Crowd-Pleaser: This pie is bound to be a hit at potlucks, picnics, or family dinners, leaving everyone asking for seconds.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking The Best Peach Pie, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

9-inch pie dish
Rolling pin
Mixing bowls
Knife
Baking sheet
Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

9-inch pie dish: Provides the perfect shape and depth for your pie to bake evenly.
Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough smoothly for an even crust without tearing.
Pastry brush: Essential for applying egg wash to achieve a golden-brown crust.

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust

2 discs pie crust ((I used my Homemade Pie Crust Recipe to make mine))

For the Peach Filling

2 lbs (900 g) fresh yellow peaches ((about 6-7 peaches))
2 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice or lime juice ((freshly-squeezed))
3/4 cups (150 g) white granulated sugar
1/4 cup + 1 tbsp (50 g) tapioca starch
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp smoked paprika or regular paprika ((or 1 tsp cinnamon))

For Topping

1 tbsp (15 g) unsalted butter ((for topping))
1 tbsp (10 g) white granulated sugar ((for topping))
1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp (15 ml) milk ((beaten together for the egg wash))

How to Make The Best Peach Pie

Step 1: Make the Pie Crust

Make the pie crust following my Homemade Pie Crust recipe or use your favorite pie crust recipe. This step can be done 1 or more days ahead of time if desired.

Step 2: Prepare the Peaches

Peel and cut the peaches into 1-inch cubes (2.5 cm). This ensures a textured filling; avoid slicing as it may lead to mushiness.

Step 3: Mix the Peach Filling

In a large bowl, combine the cubed peaches with lemon or lime juice, sugar, tapioca starch, vanilla extract, and smoked or regular paprika (or cinnamon).
Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400F (200C).

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of pie dough into a 12-inch (30 cm) circle that fits into your 9-inch (22 cm) pie dish.
Place it into the pie plate and pour in the peach filling along with all extra liquid from the bowl.

Step 6: Create the Lattice Top

Roll out the second disc of pie dough into another 12-inch (30 cm) circle.
Cut six strips about 2 inches wide (about 5 cm each).
Lay these strips over and under each other in a lattice pattern; trim excess dough from ends and seal edges.

Step 7: Apply Egg Wash

In a small bowl, beat together the egg yolk and milk until smooth.
Brush this mixture over the lattice top of the pie and sprinkle sugar on top.
Add small cubes of butter on top of peach filling through holes in lattice.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the middle rack for 40-50 minutes until you see bubbling in the filling.
If browning too quickly, cover with aluminum foil.
Allow cooling at room temperature for about 2-3 hours before serving.

Enjoy every bite of The Best Peach Pie!

How to Serve The Best Peach Pie

Serving The Best Peach Pie is all about enhancing its delightful flavors and textures. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dessert.

A La Mode

Serve a warm slice of peach pie topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination that adds creaminess to the fruity filling.

With Whipped Cream

Light and airy whipped cream can complement the rich peach filling. Consider using homemade whipped cream for an extra touch of flavor.

Fresh Mint Garnish

Add a sprinkle of fresh mint leaves on top for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the pie. This not only enhances presentation but also adds a hint of herbal freshness.

On Its Own

For purists, serving the pie plain allows the natural flavors to shine. Enjoy it at room temperature or slightly warmed for the best experience.

Drizzled with Honey

A drizzle of honey over each slice can add an extra layer of sweetness and depth. It pairs beautifully with the peaches and makes for a sophisticated touch.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

Enjoy your peach pie with a cup of coffee or herbal tea. The warmth of the beverage complements the pie’s flavors, making it perfect for any gathering.

How to Perfect The Best Peach Pie

Making The Best Peach Pie involves attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Here’s how to elevate your pie game:

Choose Ripe Peaches: Select fresh, ripe peaches for optimal sweetness and juiciness. Overripe or underripe peaches can affect the overall flavor.
Use Tapioca Starch: This thickening agent helps create a perfectly gooey filling without making it too runny. It absorbs excess moisture while keeping the texture intact.
Cool Before Slicing: Allow your pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps set the filling, preventing it from spilling out when served.
Experiment with Spices: While paprika adds a unique warmth, feel free to experiment with cinnamon or nutmeg for different flavor profiles that enhance your peach pie.
Flute Edges Neatly: Crimping or fluting the edges not only seals in the filling but also enhances presentation. A decorative edge can make your pie look more appealing.
Cover If Browning: If you notice the crust browning too quickly during baking, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the filling to cook through.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Peach Pie

Pairing side dishes with The Best Peach Pie can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some delicious options:

Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and sweet, this classic pairing provides a delightful contrast to the warm peach filling.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the pie while adding color and texture.
Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast that highlights different taste sensations.
Grilled Chicken Salad: A light salad featuring grilled chicken, mixed greens, and a tangy dressing serves as an excellent counterpoint to dessert.
Pecan Tarts: Mini pecan tarts provide another sweet option that complements the peach flavors without overpowering them.
Lemon Sorbet: A citrusy sorbet offers a light and refreshing palate cleanser between bites of rich peach pie.
Coffee Cake: Enjoying coffee cake alongside your peach pie creates a comforting dessert experience suitable for brunch or afternoon tea.
Chocolate Mousse: Rich chocolate mousse introduces an indulgent element that pairs surprisingly well with fruity desserts like peach pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your peach pie from good to unforgettable. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Using Overripe Peaches: Overripe peaches can lead to a mushy filling. Choose firm, ripe peaches that yield slightly to pressure for the best texture.
Skipping the Egg Wash: Not applying an egg wash can result in a dull crust. Brush the top crust with the egg wash for a shiny, golden finish.
Ignoring the Cooling Time: Cutting into the pie too soon can cause the filling to run. Allow it to cool for at least 2-3 hours to set properly.
Not Weaving the Lattice Correctly: A poorly woven lattice can fall apart and affect presentation. Take your time and ensure even spacing between strips for an attractive look.
Using Frozen Peaches Without Thawing: Adding frozen peaches directly may lead to excess water in your filling. Always thaw and drain them before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover pie in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil if you don’t have a container.

Freezing The Best Peach Pie

You can freeze the pie for up to 2 months for longer storage.
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing.

Reheating The Best Peach Pie

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to preparing The Best Peach Pie:

Can I use frozen peaches for The Best Peach Pie?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before adding them to the filling.

How do I know when my peach pie is done?

Your pie is ready when the filling is bubbling around the edges and the crust is golden brown.

What is the secret ingredient in The Best Peach Pie?

The secret ingredient is smoked paprika! It enhances the sweet flavor of peaches while adding depth.

Can I substitute other fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can mix or replace peaches with other fruits like cherries or blueberries for different flavors.

What should I serve with The Best Peach Pie?

A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly, but whipped cream or yogurt also makes great toppings!

Final Thoughts

The Best Peach Pie showcases delightful flavors and textures that will impress everyone at your table. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different fruits or spices based on your preference. Give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card