Introduction to Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie
Why Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie is a Must-Try
If you’re searching for the perfect summer dessert, look no further than brown butter strawberry peach pie. This delightful treat combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries and juicy peaches, nestled in a flaky, buttery crust that’s elevated by the nutty flavor of brown butter. The irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is just the icing on the cake—err, pie!
Creating this pie allows you to showcase seasonal fruits, making it a bright and colorful addition to any gathering. Did you know that strawberries and peaches are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants? According to the USDA, these fruits support heart health and may boost your immune system.
The beauty of this pie lies in its simplicity. With just a few key ingredients, you can create a show-stopping dessert that will impress your friends and family. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you've got a summer dessert that’s simply hard to beat! If you’re ready to elevate your baking skills, this is the recipe for you!
Ready to dive into this delicious summer classic? Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie
Essential ingredients for the crust
For the brown butter strawberry peach pie crust, you'll need just a handful of ingredients that make all the difference. Start with 1 cup of cold unsalted butter—this is where the flavor begins. Combine it with 2 ⅔ cups of all-purpose flour, a ¾ teaspoon of fine sea salt, and some chilled water mixed with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. This combination ensures a flaky, delicious crust that holds the luscious filling perfectly.
Fresh fruits for the filling
Now, let's talk about the stars of the show—the fruits! You’ll need 3 cups of fresh sliced peaches and 3 cups of hulled and quartered strawberries. Choosing ripe, juicy fruits is crucial as they provide the moisture and natural sweetness that make this pie irresistible. Look for fruits at local farmers' markets or grocery stores for the best flavor.
Additional components for flavor
To enhance the flavors of your brown butter strawberry peach pie, incorporate ¼ cup granulated sugar to sweeten the fruits, and use ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken the filling. Don’t forget a tablespoon of lemon juice and a teaspoon of lemon zest for that delightful citrus kick. A dash of fine sea salt balances the sweetness, and if you want a bit of crunch, consider sprinkling Turbinado sugar on top for a sparkling finish.
By carefully selecting and preparing these ingredients, you're well on your way to crafting a pie that’s perfect for summer gatherings!
Preparing Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie
Creating a Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about crafting a delicious dessert that will impress your friends and family. Let’s dive into how you can make this delectable pie from scratch!
Make the brown butter pie crust
The pie crust is the foundation of any great pie, and using brown butter here elevates it to a whole new level of flavor. To start, you'll want to brown 1 cup of unsalted butter in a stainless steel pan over medium heat. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a beautiful golden-brown color and begins to smell nutty—this usually takes around 10-12 minutes. Once done, pour the butter into a bowl and let it chill in the freezer until firm, about 1 hour. Trust me, this step is essential for achieving that rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet filling.
Chill the dough for optimal texture
After your brown butter is ready, it’s time to prepare the pie dough. In a mixing bowl, combine 2⅔ cups of all-purpose flour with ¾ teaspoon of fine sea salt. Add the cubed brown butter and mix until it resembles coarse sand. Then, slowly drizzle in icy water and a splash of vinegar to bring the dough together. Aim for a moist, soft texture—just don’t overmix! Once combined, divide your dough into two rounds, wrap them in plastic wrap, and let them chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This chilling is crucial as it helps the gluten relax, leading to a tender pie crust.
Prepare the strawberry and peach filling
Now for the filling! In a large bowl, mix together 3 cups of sliced peaches and 3 cups of hulled strawberries. Add ¼ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and a pinch of fine sea salt. Toss the mixture gently until the fruit is coated. This blend of ingredients gives the pie a balance of sweetness and acidity, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the juices to mingle.
Assemble the pie with a lattice crust
Once your filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the pie! Roll out one disc of dough to fit a 9-inch pie pan, gently placing it inside. Next, roll out the second disc, cutting it into 1-inch strips to create a lattice. Lay out the vertical strips first, then weave in the horizontal strips, tucking the edges under for a neat finish. This lattice design isn’t just beautiful, it allows the filling to bubble up and peek through, hinting at the deliciousness inside!
Bake to perfection
Bake your Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie at 425°F for the first 25 minutes, then lower the temperature to 350°F without opening the oven door. Bake for an additional 40-50 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 4 hours before serving; this helps the filling set up nicely.
With every step, you’re creating something truly special. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate summer treat!
Variations on Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie
Nutty Brown Butter Variations
Elevate your brown butter strawberry peach pie with a twist on the classic flavor profile! Try incorporating different nuts into your brown butter for added depth. Consider adding a handful of crushed pecans or walnuts to the crust before baking. You can also experiment by using hazelnut or almond butter in place of regular brown butter to infuse your pie with a delightful nuttiness. This variation adds a unique layer to the buttery goodness that will impress your guests.
Alternative Fruit Combinations
While strawberries and peaches are a match made in summer heaven, don’t limit yourself! Use the base recipe to try other seasonal fruits like cherries, blueberries, or blackberries. You might even blend these fruits; for instance, a mix of blueberries and peaches creates a tart-sweet flavor that contrasts beautifully with brown butter. Just remember to adjust sugar levels to balance the tartness. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative!
For more fruit recipes, check out Food52 for some fresh ideas.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie
Ensuring the Perfect Crust
Achieving a flaky crust is all about temperature control. Keep your ingredients, especially the butter, super cold. Use chilled water and avoid over-mixing the dough—blend until just combined. For extra security, chill your rolled-out dough before assembling the pie. This allows the gluten to relax and minimizes shrinkage during baking.
Tips for Slicing the Pie
Once your brown butter strawberry peach pie has cooled, grab a sharp knife for clean slices. Warming the knife in hot water before cutting can help too—just wipe it clean after each cut. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to elevate every bite! Don’t forget to let your friends in on the fun—sharing is always sweeter.
For more tips on pie-making, check out resources like King Arthur Baking for expert advice and techniques!
Serving Suggestions for Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie
Best Accompaniments
When indulging in your brown butter strawberry peach pie, a scoop of vanilla ice cream is the ideal companion. The creaminess of the ice cream beautifully contrasts the warm, fruity filling and flaky crust. For a glittering twist, consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or even a sprinkling of cinnamon for a hint of spice. Fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and freshness to each slice, elevating your dessert presentation.
Creative Presentation Ideas
Elevate your brown butter strawberry peach pie by placing it on a decorative cake stand, showcasing its golden lattice crust. For an extra touch, slice the pie into wedges and serve on individual plates garnished with berries or edible flowers. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a drizzle of caramel or a dusting of powdered sugar on top just before serving. Pair each slice with a lovely herbal iced tea or a refreshing fruit-infused sparkling water for a perfectly delightful summer dessert experience.
For more presentation ideas, you can explore resources on sites like SugarHero or The Spruce Eats.
Time Breakdown for Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie
Preparation Time
Getting started with your brown butter strawberry peach pie requires a little patience! The preparation time is approximately 3 hours. This includes chilling your dough, which is essential for that perfectly flaky crust.
Cooking Time
Once everything is prepped and ready, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 10 minutes baking. The initial high heat helps set the crust, while the lower temperature allows the filling to bubble and thicken beautifully.
Total Time
All in all, the total time for this delightful pie comes to about 4 hours and 10 minutes. This includes both prep and cook times. It may seem lengthy, but believe me, each minute is worth the delicious result. Don’t forget, allowing the pie to cool for at least 4 hours post-baking is crucial for serving perfection!
For further pie-making tips, check out great resources like Serious Eats for expert insights into perfecting your crust techniques!
Nutritional Facts for Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie
Calories per serving
Indulging in brown butter strawberry peach pie is a delightful treat, and it's worth knowing what you’re savoring. Each serving contains approximately 360 calories. While that's certainly a sweet escape, balanced with some fresh fruit, it can fit nicely into an occasional treat!
Carbohydrates and sugar content
When it comes to carbohydrates, this delicious pie has around 50 grams per serving, thanks to the flaky crust and the juicy fillings. Additionally, you can expect about 25 grams of sugar. The natural sweetness from the strawberries and peaches adds to the flavor while offering some nutritional benefits, like vitamins and antioxidants. For a deeper dive into the nutritional benefits of fruits, the USDA has great resources you can explore!
Enjoy this pie in moderation, and don’t forget, it's best served with a dollop of your favorite ice cream for an extra creamy touch!
FAQs about Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie
What is brown butter, and how is it made?
Brown butter, or beurre noisette, is simply regular unsalted butter that has been cooked until the milk solids caramelize. This process creates a rich, nutty flavor that elevates many desserts, including our delicious brown butter strawberry peach pie. To make it, cook your butter over medium heat for about 10-12 minutes, stirring regularly until it turns golden brown and releases a delightful nutty aroma.
How can I prevent the pie crust from getting soggy?
A soggy crust can be a pie's worst enemy! To prevent this, try pre-baking your crust for a few minutes before adding the filling. Additionally, you might sprinkle a thin layer of cornstarch or fine breadcrumbs on the bottom crust; this acts as a barrier and absorbs excess moisture from the filling.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This brown butter strawberry peach pie tastes even better the next day. Baking it a day ahead allows the juices to thicken, making for cleaner slices. Just be sure to cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. If you’re prepping the pie crust early, you can keep that in the fridge for about five days or freeze it for up to three months for added convenience.
Conclusion on Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie
In summary, the brown butter strawberry peach pie is a delightful dessert perfect for summer gatherings. Its rich, nutty crust complements the fresh, juicy filling beautifully. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable treat. Dive into this seasonal favorite and let each slice evoke sunny memories!
Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie
Equipment
- metal 9" pie pan
Ingredients
Brown Butter Pie Crust
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter
- 2 ⅔ cups + 1 tbsp all-purpose flour see notes below for measuring
- ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon apple cider or white vinegar
- 1 whole egg whisked
Strawberry and Peach Filling
- 3 cups fresh sliced peaches
- 3 cups fresh strawberries hulled and quartered
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup + 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2-3 tablespoons Turbinado sugar optional
Instructions
Make the Pie Dough
- Line a shallow bowl with parchment paper. Set aside.
- Cook the butter in a stainless steel pan over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, until browned and nutty.
- Chill the browned butter in the freezer until firm, about 1 hour.
- Combine flour and salt in a stand mixer. Add cubed browned butter and mix until pea-sized pieces remain.
- Measure out water and vinegar into a cup with ice. Stir to chill.
- Drizzle the ice water into the flour mixture until the dough clumps.
- Divide the dough into two rounds, wrap in plastic, and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
Assemble the Pie
- Preheat the oven to 425 F/218 C.
- Roll out one disc of dough to ⅛ inch thick, place in the pie pan.
- Prepare the second disc similarly and cut into strips for the lattice.
- Combine strawberries, peaches, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, cornstarch, and salt in a bowl. Pour into pie dish.
- Arrange the lattice on top of the filling, trim excess dough, and crimp edges.
- Brush the top with egg wash and sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
- Bake for 25 minutes, then lower the heat and bake for another 40-50 minutes. Cool for 4 hours before serving.
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