Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie

Introduction

There’s something about summer fruits that makes desserts irresistible, and this Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie is the perfect combination of rich, nutty flavors and the sweet, tangy freshness of strawberries and peaches. The flaky, golden-brown pie crust is made with brown butter, which adds a warm, toasty depth of flavor that enhances the sweetness of the fruit filling. With fresh peaches and strawberries, this pie is a celebration of the season, perfect for any gathering, family dinner, or just as a special treat for yourself.

This pie is easy to make, but the results are nothing short of impressive. The luscious filling of strawberries and peaches, combined with the rich brown butter crust, creates a dessert that feels indulgent yet refreshingly fruity. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just because, this pie is sure to leave everyone asking for the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Brown Butter Crust

The brown butter in the crust adds a nutty, rich flavor that complements the sweet fruit filling perfectly. It takes a regular pie crust to the next level, making every bite more flavorful.

2. Fresh, Seasonal Fruit

The combination of fresh strawberries and peaches is a match made in heaven. Sweet, juicy peaches and slightly tart strawberries create a perfectly balanced filling that will make you crave more.

3. Simple Yet Elegant

This pie looks elegant on the table but is simple to make, even for beginners. The brown butter crust may sound fancy, but it’s easy to execute and adds a delightful flavor that everyone will love.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a summer picnic, holiday gathering, or a weeknight treat, this pie is perfect for any occasion. It’s sure to impress guests while still being approachable and comforting.

5. Customizable with Extra Toppings

Want to add a little something extra? Try serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can even sprinkle some extra Turbinado sugar on top for a caramelized crunch.

Ingredients

For the 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 tbsp apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
• 1 whole egg, whisked

For the 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 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• ¼ tsp fine sea salt
• 2-3 tbsp Turbinado sugar (optional)

Variations

• Mixed Berries: Swap the peaches for other summer fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry pie.
• Spiced Filling: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a cozy, spiced flavor.
• Vegan Crust: For a vegan twist, substitute the butter in the crust with plant-based butter or coconut oil.
• Crumble Topping: Top your pie with a crumble topping made from butter, sugar, and flour for a different texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Make the Brown Butter Pie Crust

1. In a saucepan, melt the cold unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes). Be careful not to burn the butter.
2. Let the brown butter cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the brown butter and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly.
4. Slowly add the water and vinegar, a little at a time, until the dough starts to come together. Add the whisked egg and mix until the dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead briefly until smooth. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before using.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the fresh sliced peaches and strawberries. Add the granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt. Stir gently to combine and ensure the fruit is evenly coated in the mixture.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out one of the dough discs on a floured surface to fit your pie dish. Gently place it into the dish, trimming any excess dough.
3. Pour the fruit filling into the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
4. Roll out the second dough disc and place it over the filling, pinching the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
5. If desired, sprinkle Turbinado sugar over the top of the pie for a crunchy finish.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

1. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
2. Let the pie cool for at least 1 hour before slicing to allow the filling to set.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Chill the Dough: Make sure to chill the dough for at least 1 hour before rolling it out. This helps prevent the crust from becoming too soft and difficult to work with.
• Avoid Overmixing the Dough: Be careful not to overwork the dough. Handle it gently to ensure a tender and flaky crust.
• Prevent a Soggy Bottom: If you’re worried about a soggy crust, brush the bottom of the pie with a thin layer of beaten egg before adding the filling.

How to Serve

• With Ice Cream: Serve a slice of warm pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• With Fresh Mint: Garnish your pie with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing contrast to the sweet fruit filling.
• For Breakfast: Leftover pie makes a delightful breakfast paired with a cup of coffee or tea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked pie before cooking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the freezer and bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To reheat leftover pie, place a slice in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds, or heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen fruit for the filling?

Yes, you can use frozen fruit if fresh fruit is not available. Just make sure to thaw the fruit and drain any excess liquid before using it in the filling.

2. Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Yes, if you prefer a shortcut, feel free to use a store-bought pie crust, although the brown butter crust makes the pie extra special.

3. How do I know when the pie is done?

The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the slits in the top crust.

4. Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, you can substitute the granulated sugar with other types of sugar, such as brown sugar or coconut sugar, for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

This Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie is the ultimate summer dessert, combining the rich flavor of brown butter with the bright, fruity sweetness of peaches and strawberries. It’s the perfect pie to serve at a family gathering, picnic, or just as a treat to enjoy after a long day. With its flaky crust and luscious filling, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire!

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