Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie

Strawberry Peach Pie is a delightful dessert that combines fresh, juicy peaches and strawberries in a rich brown butter crust. This Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or simply as a sweet treat at home. Its unique flavor profile and flaky texture make it an unforgettable dessert that will impress your friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown butter with sweet strawberries and peaches creates a mouthwatering taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a cozy family dinner, this pie suits all celebrations.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this recipe quickly.
• A Showstopper Dessert: The beautiful presentation of this pie makes it visually stunning on any table.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to mix in other fruits or adjust the sweetness to your liking.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of the Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will streamline the baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• 9-inch pie dish
• Whisk
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough evenly, crucial for achieving that perfect crust.
• Whisk: Makes it easy to blend wet ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

To create this delectable Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie, gather the following ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 cup cold unsalted butter
• 2 ⅔ cups + 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (see notes below for measuring)
• 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tbsp apple cider or white vinegar
• 1 whole egg (whisked)

For the 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)

How to Make Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preparing your pie crust.

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in water and vinegar until dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

Next, let’s infuse your crust with that rich flavor.

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the cold unsalted butter.
2. Continue cooking while stirring until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Roll Out Dough

Now it’s time to shape your crust.

1. On a floured surface, roll out half of the chilled dough into a circle larger than your pie dish.
2. Transfer the rolled dough to the pie dish, pressing gently into place.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While your crust chills, prepare the filling.

1. In a large bowl, toss together sliced peaches, strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Combine all elements for a beautiful end result.

1. Pour fruit filling into the prepared crust.
2. Roll out remaining dough and cover pie filling with slits cut for steam to escape.
3. Brush with whisked egg and sprinkle with Turbinado sugar if desired.

Step 6: Bake

Finally, bake your masterpiece!

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake pie on a baking sheet for about 70 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
3. Allow cooling before serving with vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat!

How to Serve Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie

Serving Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie is a delightful experience, especially during warm summer months. This pie pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavor and texture.

A La Mode

• Serve warm slices of the pie topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast.

Fresh Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds airy richness and complements the fruitiness of the pie.

Fruit Sauce Drizzle

• A drizzle of strawberry or peach sauce can intensify the fruity notes and add extra sweetness.

Nuts and Seeds

• Sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds on top for an added crunch that balances the soft texture of the pie.

Mint Garnish

• Fresh mint leaves not only look beautiful but also provide a refreshing herbal note to each bite.

Coffee Pairing

• Enjoy slices of this pie with a cup of coffee to balance the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie

Perfecting your Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie can take your baking to the next level. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

• Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter and water are cold to achieve a flaky crust.
• Brown the Butter Carefully: Watch closely while browning the butter; it should be nutty but not burnt for the best flavor.
• Let It Chill: Allow your pie crust to chill in the refrigerator before baking. This helps maintain its shape and flakiness.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your filling before baking; adjust sugar based on fruit ripeness for ideal sweetness.
• Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your pie towards the end of baking. A golden-brown crust without burning is what you want.
• Cool Before Slicing: Let the pie cool completely before slicing to allow the filling to set properly.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie

Pairing side dishes with your Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic pairing, creamy vanilla ice cream enhances the pie’s flavors beautifully.
2. Lemon Sorbet
   The tartness of lemon sorbet offers a refreshing contrast to the sweet pie.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the richness of the pie.
4. Chocolate Mousse
   The lightness and richness of chocolate mousse create an indulgent treat alongside your pie.
5. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses can complement the sweet flavors, creating a well-rounded dessert table.
6. Almond Biscotti
   Crunchy almond biscotti provides a delightful textural contrast when served alongside slices of pie.
7. Coconut Whipped Cream
   For a dairy-free option, coconut whipped cream adds a tropical flair that pairs nicely with fruit pies.
8. Spiced Chai Tea
   A warm cup of spiced chai tea rounds off dessert time perfectly, enhancing all flavors in this summer treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie can be fun, but it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls.

• Using warm butter: Always use cold unsalted butter for your crust. Warm butter can lead to a tough, chewy texture instead of a flaky one.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can develop gluten and make the crust dense instead of light and flaky.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon and level method to measure flour. Packing it into the cup can result in too much flour, affecting the crust’s texture.
• Skipping the chilling time: Allow your dough to chill for at least an hour. This step is crucial for achieving a tender, flaky crust.
• Ignoring fruit preparation: Make sure to slice your peaches and hull your strawberries properly. This ensures even cooking and better flavor distribution in your pie.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This helps maintain the crust’s flakiness.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm. Be cautious as this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes. This method keeps the crust crispy while warming the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making a Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie.

Can I use frozen fruit for Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries and peaches if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

How do I prevent my pie crust from burning?

To prevent burning, cover the edges of the pie with aluminum foil during baking if they brown too quickly.

What is brown butter and how do I make it?

Brown butter is simply butter that has been melted and cooked until it turns golden brown, giving it a nutty flavor. To make it, melt butter over medium heat and stir until it foams and becomes golden brown.

Can I customize my Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie?

Absolutely! You can add other fruits like blueberries or cherries or spice things up with cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie is a delightful dessert that combines juicy fruits with a rich, nutty crust. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various fruits or spices, making it perfect for any occasion. Try this pie today; it’s sure to impress family and friends!