Get ready to indulge in the tasty goodness of Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie. This dessert is easy to make and packed with flavors that burst in every bite. I’ll guide you through picking the best fruits, crafting the perfect crust, and adding the rich note of brown butter. Whether you’re a pro baker or a beginner, this pie will impress your family and friends. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
Detailed list of ingredients for Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie
To make a Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie, gather these simple ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), browned
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ice water
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– ½ cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
– 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for topping)
Tips for selecting the freshest strawberries and peaches
Choosing fresh fruit is key for a great pie. Look for strawberries that are bright red and firm. Avoid any that are mushy or have dark spots. For peaches, select ones that feel slightly soft. They should also have a sweet smell. Always wash your fruit before using it. This helps remove any dirt or chemicals.
Suggested substitutions for dietary restrictions
If you have dietary needs, you can modify this pie. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. You can also swap the butter for a vegan butter substitute to make it dairy-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious pie!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the pie crust with brown butter
Start by making your pie crust. In a bowl, mix 1 ½ cups of flour, ½ cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Next, add the browned butter. This butter gives the crust a nutty flavor. Stir until it looks like coarse crumbs. Gradually add 1/4 cup of ice water. Mix until the dough forms a ball. Shape it into a disc, wrap it in plastic, and put it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the dough stay flaky.
Making the strawberry and peach filling
While the dough chills, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, combine 2 cups of sliced strawberries and 2 cups of sliced peaches. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Then, mix in ½ cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This mixture will create a sweet and juicy filling. Let it sit for a bit. This allows the flavors to mix well.
Rolling out dough and assembling the pie
Once the dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to fit your 9-inch pie pan. Place the rolled dough in the pan and trim any extra. Pour the strawberry and peach filling into the crust, spreading it evenly. For a beautiful top, roll out more dough and cut it into strips. Weave these strips over the filling to make a lattice top. Crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork to seal. Brush the top with a beaten egg and sprinkle coarse sugar for a sweet crunch. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling bubbles. Let it cool for an hour before slicing. This helps the filling set nicely. Enjoy your delicious pie! For the complete recipe, refer to the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
How to perfect the brown butter flavor
To make brown butter, start by melting unsalted butter in a pan over medium heat. Keep stirring it. Soon, you’ll see it change color. The butter will turn a golden brown and give off a nutty aroma. This step is key to adding depth and richness to your pie. Be careful not to burn it. Once it’s ready, let it cool slightly before using it in your dough. This enhances the taste of the crust and adds a lovely flavor to the filling.
Techniques for a flaky pie crust
A flaky pie crust needs cold ingredients. Start with chilled butter and cold water. When you mix the butter into the flour, do it gently. You want small lumps of butter to remain. These lumps create steam when baking, which leads to flakiness. After mixing, wrap the dough and chill it for at least 30 minutes. This rest time allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out.
Recommended baking times and temperatures for best results
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat helps the crust become golden and crisp. Bake the pie for 30-35 minutes. Watch for the crust to turn golden brown and the filling to bubble up. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil. Let the pie cool for about an hour before slicing. This cooling period helps the filling set and makes serving easier. For the best taste, serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
For the full recipe, check out the Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie.
Variations
Exploring different fruits for filling (e.g., blueberries, raspberries)
You can mix up the filling in your Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie. While strawberries and peaches shine brightly, other fruits can add a twist. Try using blueberries or raspberries for a new flavor. These berries bring a tartness that balances the sweetness. You can even create a mix. Just keep the same amount of fruit to maintain the pie’s structure.
Adjusting sweetness levels in the pie
Sweetness is key in any pie. You can adjust the sugar based on your taste. If you like it less sweet, cut back on the brown sugar and granulated sugar. Adding a bit more lemon juice can also balance the flavors. Taste the filling before baking. This way, you can find the perfect sweetness for you and your guests.
Creating a crumble topping instead of lattice for a twist
If you want a different texture, try a crumble topping. Instead of weaving a lattice crust, combine flour, brown sugar, oats, and butter to make a crumble. Sprinkle it over the filling before baking. This gives a crunchy contrast to the soft fruit. It also saves time if you’re in a hurry. Just remember, the baking time may vary, so keep an eye on it!
For the full recipe, check out the link above!
Storage Info
Best practices for storing leftovers
To keep your Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie fresh, store it in a cool place. Once the pie is fully cooled, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This protects it from drying out and keeps the flavors intact. If you have a pie dish with a lid, that works great too. Always let the pie cool completely before covering it. This will prevent condensation that can make the crust soggy.
How long does the pie last in the fridge or freezer?
In the fridge, your pie will last for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure it’s well covered to maintain freshness. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. When properly wrapped, the pie can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing. If you plan to freeze it, I recommend slicing the pie first for easy serving later.
Reheating instructions for best flavor and texture
To reheat your pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Heat it for about 15 to 20 minutes. This warms the filling and makes the crust crispy again. If you want to warm individual slices, you can use the microwave. Heat each slice for about 30 seconds or until warm. Enjoy it with ice cream for a delightful treat!
FAQs
What is the best way to cut a pie for clean slices?
To cut a pie cleanly, use a sharp knife. Dip the knife in hot water before each slice. This helps the knife glide through the crust and filling. Wipe the knife with a cloth after each cut. This keeps the slices neat and tidy. Always start from the center and work your way out.
Can I prepare the pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie ahead of time! You can make the crust and filling a day before. Just store the crust wrapped in plastic in the fridge. Keep the filling in a sealed container. When you’re ready, assemble the pie and bake it. This saves time and lets the flavors blend well.
What should I do if my pie crust is too soggy?
If your pie crust is soggy, try blind baking it. Blind baking means pre-baking the crust before adding the filling. This helps set the crust and keeps it crisp. If the crust is already baked, you can spoon off any excess liquid from the filling. This will help the crust stay crunchy when you serve it.
This blog post covered everything you need for a perfect Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie. You learned how to choose fresh fruits, make a flavorful filling, and craft an ideal crust. My tips will help you achieve that rich brown butter flavor and flaky texture. You can even explore variations with different fruits or toppings. Remember to store leftovers properly to enjoy your pie later. With these steps, you’ll impress everyone with your pie-making skills. Happy baking, and enjoy every slice!
