Award-Winning Peaches and Cream Pie Recipe

Nothing says summer quite like a slice of fresh peaches and cream pie. This award-winning recipe is a staple dessert for peach season, beloved for its creamy filling, juicy peaches, and perfectly flaky crust. If you’re searching for a pie recipe that impresses at gatherings or simply want a delicious homemade treat, this peaches and cream pie delivers. Let’s dive into what makes this pie truly special and how you can bring it to life in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This peaches and cream pie stands out for its balance of textures and flavors – from the crispy crust to the smooth, creamy filling and succulent peach topping. The combination is irresistible, offering a perfect blend of sweetness and freshness. It’s simple enough for beginners but delicious enough to be award-worthy. Whether you're baking for family, friends, or yourself, this pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Recipe Overview

Name of the Dish

Award-Winning Peaches and Cream Pie

Description

A creamy, flavorful pie featuring a fresh peach filling and rich cream layer, all encased in a golden-brown crust. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a delightful ending to a special meal.

Ingredients

• For the Crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1/4 cup cold water
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the Cream Filling:
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
• For the Peach Topping:
  • 4-5 ripe peaches, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the cold water a tablespoon at a time until the dough just comes together. Form into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Blind Bake the Crust

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface and press into a 9-inch pie dish. Use a fork to prick the crust all over to prevent bubbles, then place parchment paper and pie weights on top. Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool.

Step 3: Make the Cream Filling

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream until fully incorporated. Spread this cream filling evenly into the cooled crust.

Step 4: Prepare the Peach Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine the peach slices, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Arrange the peach slices over the cream filling, creating a pattern or scattering them evenly as desired.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the cream to set. This pie is best enjoyed chilled and will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes (for blind baking the crust)
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes (including chilling time)

Serving Suggestions

This peaches and cream pie serves 8 people. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of sparkling wine or iced tea on a warm day.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Avoid freezing, as it may affect the creamy texture. To enjoy a slice, simply remove from the fridge and serve – no reheating needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned peaches?

Fresh peaches yield the best results for this pie, but you can substitute with canned or frozen peaches if necessary. Drain canned peaches well and thaw frozen ones before using.

Can I make the pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this pie a day in advance, making it perfect for gatherings. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.

Is there a dairy-free option?

For a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cream cheese substitute.

Conclusion

This award-winning peaches and cream pie recipe is a delicious way to celebrate summer’s bounty and create lasting memories with loved ones. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a sweet treat, we’re confident this pie will quickly become a favorite. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments! Don’t forget to share your creations and follow us for more delightful recipes.