Irresistibly Delicious Peaches and Cream Pie

Hey there, fellow pie lovers! Are you ready for a taste sensation that’s as easy as it is delicious? This Peaches and Cream Pie is my go-to dessert for any occasion – from casual weeknight gatherings to elegant dinner parties. What makes it so special? First, that unbelievably creamy filling! The blend of softened cream cheese and sweet peaches creates a texture that’s both smooth and luxurious, melting in your mouth with every bite. The subtle tang of the cream cheese perfectly balances the sweetness of the peaches, creating a harmony of flavors that’s simply irresistible.

Beyond the incredible taste, this pie boasts a super-friendly preparation time. Forget those complicated, time-consuming recipes – this one is designed for even the busiest of home bakers. You can even use canned peaches for ultimate convenience, without compromising on flavor! The buttery, slightly sweet crust adds a delightful textural contrast to the creamy filling, and the simple cinnamon-sugar topping is the perfect finishing touch.

Imagine this: the warm, comforting aroma of baking pie filling your kitchen, the anticipation building as it cools, and finally, that first heavenly bite… This pie isn’t just dessert; it’s an experience. It evokes feelings of warmth, happiness, and pure indulgence. It’s the perfect way to end a meal, satisfy a sweet craving, or simply brighten your day. So, are you ready to dive into this peachy paradise? Let’s get baking!

What You’ll Need

This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:

Crust:

• • ¾ cup all-purpose flour 🌾 – Provides the structure for our delightful crust.
  • ½ teaspoon salt 🧂– Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder 🥄– Creates a light and fluffy texture.
  • 1 (3 ounce) package vanilla pudding mix (cook & serve) 🍮 – Adds richness and a hint of vanilla sweetness.
  • 3 tablespoons butter, softened 🧈 – Creates a tender and flaky crust.
  • 1 egg 🥚– Binds the crust ingredients together.
  • ½ cup milk 🥛– Adds moisture and helps create a tender crust.

Filling:

• • • 1 (28 ounce) can sliced peaches, drained (reserve juice) 🍑 (or 3 medium fresh peaches, about 2 ¼ cups cubed) – The star of the show! Canned peaches are a convenient option.
    • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened 🧀 – Provides that luscious creaminess.
    • ½ cup granulated sugar 🍬 – Sweetens the filling to perfection.
    • 3 tablespoons reserved peach juice 🍑 – Adds extra peachy flavor and moisture.

Topping:

• • • 1 tablespoon sugar 🍬 – Adds a touch of sweetness and crunch.
    • 1 teaspoon cinnamon – A warm and inviting spice that complements the peaches beautifully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s create this amazing pie together! Follow these steps for a perfect result:

Step 1: Making the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Add the pudding mix and mix well. Cut in the softened butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Beat the egg and milk together; gradually add to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix!

Step 2: Baking the Crust

Press the dough into a 9-inch pie plate. Crimp the edges for a beautiful finish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Let it cool completely before adding the filling. Tip: For a crispier crust, blind bake it by lining the crust with parchment paper and filling with pie weights or dried beans for the first 10 minutes of baking.

Step 3: Preparing the Filling

While the crust is cooling, make the filling. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and beat until well combined. Stir in the drained peaches and reserved peach juice. Tip: If using fresh peaches, make sure to peel and cube them before adding them to the cream cheese mixture.

Step 4: Assembling the Pie

Pour the peach filling into the cooled crust. In a small bowl, combine the topping sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the filling.

Step 5: Baking the Pie (optional)

For a slightly firmer filling, you can bake the assembled pie for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set. However, this is totally optional – the filling will still be delicious without baking it. Tip: If you choose to bake it, cover the edges of the crust with aluminum foil to prevent them from burning.

Step 6: Cooling and Serving

Let the pie cool completely before serving. This allows the filling to set properly and enhances the overall flavor. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your Peaches and Cream Pie is a resounding success:

Don’t overmix the crust: Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough crust. Mix until just combined.

Blind bake for a crispier crust: As mentioned above, blind baking helps prevent a soggy bottom.

Use softened cream cheese: This ensures a smooth and creamy filling. Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using it.

Let the pie cool completely: This crucial step prevents a runny filling and allows the flavors to meld.

Serve chilled: The cool temperature enhances the flavors and textures of the pie.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with this recipe! Here are some fun variations:

Spiced it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for a warmer flavor profile.

Berrylicious: Add some blueberries or raspberries to the filling for a delightful mix of flavors and colors.

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust.

Vegan Option: Substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use a vegan egg replacement for the crust.

Make it a crumble: Instead of a pie crust, top the peach filling with a buttery crumble topping.

Storing and Reheating

Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pie for up to 2 months. To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then slice and serve chilled. Reheating in the microwave is not recommended, as it can make the filling runny. If you want a warm slice, carefully reheat it in a low oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen peaches?

A: Yes, you can! Make sure to thaw the peaches completely and drain them well before using them in the filling.

Q: How long does the pie keep?

A: Stored properly in the refrigerator, the pie will keep for up to 3 days. Frozen, it will last up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make the crust ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can make the crust a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.

Q: What if I don’t have pudding mix?

A: You can omit the pudding mix, but the crust may be slightly less rich. You could also try substituting with a cornstarch-based slurry.

Q: Can I use a different type of fruit?

A: Absolutely! Try substituting with other stone fruits like nectarines or plums. Berries would also be delicious.

The Final Word

This Irresistibly Delicious Peaches and Cream Pie is the perfect blend of simple ingredients, easy preparation, and unforgettable flavor. The creamy filling, buttery crust, and warm cinnamon topping create a dessert experience that’s sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to bake a pie that will be the star of your next gathering! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turns out. And don’t hesitate to rate the recipe if you enjoyed it!

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