| Prep Time ⇒ | 30 mins |
| Cook Time ⇒ | 1 hr 25 mins |
| Protein ⇒ | 3g |
| Fat ⇒ | 14g |
| Carbs ⇒ | 47g |
Chef John’s Exquisite Peach Pie
Indulge in the irresistible charm of Chef John’s Healthy Peach Pie, a culinary masterpiece that perfectly marries taste and aesthetics. This pie isn’t just a treat for the palate but a feast for the eyes, showcasing a lattice design that is both elegant and functional. The open lattice top is not only a hallmark of classic pie-making but also a clever solution to prevent the all-too-common issue of a watery filling. By allowing excess moisture to evaporate, the lattice ensures that every bite of this pie is perfectly balanced. Additionally, our method of boiling off excess juices into a rich syrup contributes to the pie’s delectable consistency and flavor.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds fresh freestone peaches, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup white sugar, divided
- 1 tiny pinch of salt
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper
- 1 pinch ground cinnamon
- 1 package (14.1 ounces) double-crust pie pastry, thawed
- 1 ½ tablespoons butter, cut into tiny pieces
- 1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon white sugar, or to taste
Directions:
Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures that your pie will bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh peach slices with ½ cup of sugar and a tiny pinch of salt. Stir these ingredients together until they are well incorporated. Allow this mixture to sit for 20 to 30 minutes. During this time, the peaches will release their juices. Strain these accumulated juices into a saucepan, then return the strained peaches to the bowl.
Step 3: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the peach juices to a boil. Continue to cook the juices until they thicken into a syrupy consistency, which should take about 5 to 10 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your pie filling.
Step 4: While the syrup is reducing, whisk together ½ cup of sugar, flour, and cornstarch in a medium-sized bowl. Add the lemon juice, cayenne pepper, and ground cinnamon to the bowl with the peaches. Sprinkle the flour mixture over the peaches and toss gently to coat. Finally, pour the hot peach syrup over the peach mixture and stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 5: Roll out one of the pie pastry sheets into a 12-inch circle. Carefully press this circle into the bottom of a 10-inch pie plate. Pour the prepared peach filling into the crust, and tap the pie plate gently against a flat surface to help settle the filling. Dot the top of the filling with small pieces of butter.
Step 6: Roll out the remaining pie pastry into an 11-inch circle. Using a paring knife or a pastry wheel, cut this circle into 1-inch wide strips.
Step 7: Lay five of the pastry strips evenly over the top of the pie. Weave the remaining strips through these to create a beautiful lattice pattern. Fold the ends of the lattice strips under the bottom crust and crimp the edges to seal. For a glossy finish, brush the top of the pie with heavy whipping cream and sprinkle it with 1 tablespoon of sugar.
Step 8: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the crust is beautifully browned and the filling is bubbling. Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to ensure that the filling sets properly.
Experience the ultimate in dessert perfection with Chef John’s Healthy Peach Pie, where every slice offers a perfect blend of sweet, tart, and buttery flavors encased in a perfectly crisp lattice crust. This pie is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of the quintessential peach pie, elevated to an art form.
Healthy Peach Pie: A Guilt-Free Dessert
Peach pie is a classic dessert that evokes memories of warm summer days and family gatherings. But who says you can’t enjoy this delicious treat while keeping it healthy? This healthy peach pie recipe combines the sweet, juicy flavor of fresh peaches with wholesome ingredients, making it a delightful option for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt.
Flavorful Ingredients
At the heart of a great peach pie are ripe, juicy peaches. These fruits are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Using fresh peaches during their peak season enhances the flavor and sweetness of the pie, reducing the need for added sugars.
For the crust, you can opt for a whole grain or almond flour base, which adds nutritional value while providing a satisfying crunch. To bind the crust, using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup can keep things light and flavorful. A sprinkle of cinnamon can also enhance the taste, giving the pie that classic comfort-food feel.
Health Benefits
One of the standout features of this healthy peach pie is its nutritional profile. Peaches are low in calories and high in water content, making them a refreshing choice. They’re also rich in antioxidants, which can help fight inflammation and promote overall health. By choosing to make your pie healthier, you’re able to enjoy the sweetness of the peaches without excessive added sugars or unhealthy fats.
Using whole grain or nut-based crusts can also increase the fiber content of your dessert, aiding in digestion and keeping you feeling satisfied. This means you can enjoy a slice of pie while still making a mindful choice for your health.
Easy Preparation
Making a healthy peach pie is simpler than you might think. Start by slicing fresh peaches and mixing them with a touch of sweetener, lemon juice, and spices. Prepare your crust by mixing your chosen ingredients and pressing them into a pie dish. Combine the filling with the crust, bake, and you’ll have a warm, delectable dessert ready in no time!
If you’d like to learn more about the health benefits of peaches, click here for a detailed look at their nutritional properties.
For more delicious and healthy recipes, be sure to check out Hearty Recipes for a variety of options that will help you enjoy your favorite foods while staying health-conscious.