We’ve always loved how a simple pie can capture the essence of summer, and our Peach Praline Pie recipe does just that. It pairs juicy, ripe peaches with a crunchy praline topping for a dessert that’s both comforting and irresistible.
Hailing from Southern traditions where peaches reign supreme, this pie adds a nutty twist that elevates the classic fruit filling. We’re excited to share how easy it is to whip up this crowd-pleaser in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
To craft our mouthwatering Peach Praline Pie, we organize the ingredients by component, ensuring you have everything ready for a seamless baking experience. This selection highlights fresh, high-quality items that bring out the juicy sweetness of peaches and the nutty crunch of praline.
For the Pie Crust
We start with the base, as it’s the foundation of our pie:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Sifted for a flaky texture
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Chilled and cubed to keep it cold for better dough formation
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water – Added gradually to bind the dough without overworking it
For the Peach Filling
Next, we prepare the star of the show—the fresh peach filling—with ingredients used to create a vibrant, juicy center:
- 6 cups fresh peaches – Peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch pieces for even cooking; opt for ripe, seasonal peaches for peak flavor
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar – Balances the natural tartness of the fruit
- 1/4 cup cornstarch – Acts as a thickener to prevent a runny filling
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, aromatic spice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Provides a subtle, earthy note
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Freshly squeezed to brighten the flavors and prevent browning
For the Praline Topping
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans – Toasted lightly for enhanced nuttiness and texture
- 1/2 cup brown sugar – Packed for a rich, caramel-like sweetness
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – Helps create a crumbly topping
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter – Melted to bind the ingredients into a perfect streusel
Required Tools and Equipment
To seamlessly transition from gathering our fresh ingredients for the Peach Praline Pie to the hands-on preparation, we rely on a selection of essential tools that make baking straightforward and efficient. In our experience, having these items ready ensures a flaky pie crust, a well-mixed peach filling, and a perfectly toasted praline topping.
We organize the tools by the key stages of the recipe—preparation, assembly, and baking—for a logical flow. Below is a detailed list of what you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls: Two medium-sized bowls for combining dry ingredients for the pie crust and mixing the peach filling. We prefer glass or stainless steel for easy cleaning and visibility.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of dry measuring cups (1 cup, ½ cup, ⅓ cup, ¼ cup) and spoons (1 tablespoon, 1 teaspoon, etc.) to accurately measure flour, sugar, and other components, ensuring precision in our Peach Praline Pie.
- Pastry Cutter or Food Processor: For cutting butter into the flour for the pie crust. A pastry cutter works best for a hands-on approach, while a food processor speeds up the process for larger batches.
- Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling out the dough to the perfect thickness. We recommend a marble rolling pin for its cooling effect, which helps keep the butter from melting too quickly.
- Pie Dish: A 9-inch glass or ceramic dish to hold and bake the pie, allowing us to achieve an even golden crust on our Peach Praline Pie.
- Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp chef’s knife for slicing fresh peaches and a sturdy cutting board to prepare the fruit without mess.
- Whisk or Fork: For blending wet ingredients like lemon juice and spices into the filling, ensuring a smooth, flavorful mixture.
- Baking Sheet: Placed under the pie dish to catch any drips during baking, preventing oven messes and promoting even heat distribution.
- Oven Mitts and Cooling Rack: Oven mitts for safe handling of hot dishes and a wire rack for cooling the pie post-bake, which helps maintain the praline topping’s crunch.
For quick reference, here’s a table summarizing the tools by category and their primary use:
| Category | Tool | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Mixing Bowls | Combining ingredients for crust and filling |
| Preparation | Measuring Cups and Spoons | Ensuring accurate measurements |
| Preparation | Pastry Cutter or Food Processor | Cutting butter into flour |
| Assembly | Rolling Pin | Rolling out dough |
| Assembly | Knife and Cutting Board | Slicing peaches |
| Baking | Pie Dish | Holding and baking the pie |
| Baking | Baking Sheet | Catching drips and even heat distribution |
| Finishing | Oven Mitts and Cooling Rack | Safe handling and proper cooling |
With these tools in hand, we’re set to create a delicious Peach Praline Pie that highlights the juicy peaches and nutty praline in every bite.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s walk through the steps to craft our irresistible Peach Praline Pie. We will provide clear, precise guidance to ensure a flaky crust, juicy filling, and crunchy topping that captures the essence of summer flavors.
Prepare the Pie Crust
Follow these steps to create a buttery, flaky base for our Peach Praline Pie:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt, whisking them together until evenly mixed.
- Add 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes, and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces.
- Gradually drizzle in 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough just comes together without being sticky.
- Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up, allowing the flavors to meld and the butter to chill for optimal flakiness.
Make the Praline Topping
This nutty, caramelized topping adds a irresistible crunch to our Peach Praline Pie, elevating the dessert with its rich texture and aroma.
- In a medium bowl, mix 1 cup chopped pecans, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1/3 cup all-purpose flour until the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Pour in 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter and stir vigorously with a fork until the mixture forms a crumbly, moist topping that clumps slightly.
- Set the topping aside at room temperature, where its warm, nutty scent will build anticipation for the final bake.
Prepare the Peach Filling
Here, we transform fresh peaches into a vibrant, spiced filling that bursts with juicy sweetness and subtle warmth.
- Peel and slice 6 cups fresh peaches into 1/2-inch thick wedges using a sharp knife, then toss them in a large bowl with 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 3 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 2 tablespoons lemon juice to enhance their natural tartness and create a glossy syrup.
- Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the peaches release their juices and the flavors intensify into a fragrant, syrupy blend ready for assembly.
Assemble the Pie
We layer our components to build the perfect Peach Praline Pie, ensuring every bite combines tender fruit with a crisp crust and topping.
- Roll out the chilled pie dough on a lightly floured surface to a 12-inch circle, about 1/8-inch thick, then carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently against the sides and trimming any excess.
- Pour the prepared peach filling into the crust, spreading it evenly to create a mound of glistening fruit.
- Sprinkle the praline topping over the filling, covering it completely for a golden, crunchy contrast that promises a delightful textural surprise.
Bake the Pie
Baking brings out the deep, caramelized notes of our Peach Praline Pie, filling your kitchen with the irresistible scent of warm peaches and spices.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a baking sheet on the lower rack to catch any drips.
- Bake the assembled pie on the middle rack for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for 35-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling bubbles thickly.
- Use oven mitts to remove the pie and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours, allowing the juices to set into a luscious, sliceable consistency.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the pie crust up to 2 days in advance; store it wrapped in the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before rolling.
- Assemble the entire pie without baking and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours; cover it loosely with plastic wrap to preserve freshness.
- For the praline topping, mix it ahead and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring it stays crumbly for that signature crunch.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored this Peach Praline Pie with us
It’s a simple joy that brings fresh flavors to your table
Baking it creates lasting memories and sweet rewards
Try it soon and savor the compliments that follow
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Peach Praline Pie?
Peach Praline Pie is a summery Southern dessert featuring juicy fresh peaches in a sweet filling, topped with a crunchy nutty praline made from pecans, brown sugar, and butter. It’s a comforting twist on classic fruit pies, perfect for gatherings, and combines fresh ingredients for an irresistible treat.
What ingredients are needed for Peach Praline Pie?
For the pie crust, you’ll need all-purpose flour, salt, unsalted butter, and ice water. The peach filling requires fresh peaches, granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. The praline topping includes chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter. Use high-quality, fresh items for the best flavor.
What tools are required to make Peach Praline Pie?
You’ll need mixing bowls for prep, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a pastry cutter or food processor for the crust, a rolling pin to shape dough, a pie dish for baking, a knife and cutting board for peaches, a whisk, baking sheet, oven mitts, and a cooling rack to ensure a smooth process.
How do I prepare the pie crust for Peach Praline Pie?
Mix flour and salt, then incorporate cold butter until crumbly. Add ice water to form dough, shape into a disk, and chill for at least 30 minutes. Roll out on a floured surface to fit your pie dish for a flaky base.
Can I make Peach Praline Pie ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the pie crust up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate. Assemble the full pie a day ahead and chill, or make the praline topping ahead and store it separately. Bake fresh for the best texture, but it holds up well for convenience.
How should I store Peach Praline Pie?
Store baked pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days to keep it fresh. For longer storage, freeze slices for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating in the oven for optimal taste.
Are there any variations for this Peach Praline Pie recipe?
You can substitute peaches with other fruits like apples or berries for a seasonal twist. For a nut-free version, omit pecans or use seeds. Adjust spices to taste, or add vanilla extract to the filling for extra flavor while keeping the Southern essence intact.