Imagine taking a bite of a warm, golden-brown crust that crumbles slightly with each forkful, revealing juicy, sun-kissed peaches nestled within. The sweet aroma wafts through the air, coaxing memories of summer picnics and laughter-filled gatherings, making this Peach Slab Pie inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards an irresistible treat for any occasion.
This delightful dessert is perfect for family reunions or backyard barbecues, where everyone gathers to savor its buttery goodness while swapping stories and sharing smiles. With each slice, you’ll experience not just a burst of flavor but also a comforting connection to those cherished moments that make life truly delicious.
Why Is Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards So Irresistibly Good?
Unforgettable flavor: This pie showcases the sweet juiciness of fresh peaches, perfectly balanced with a hint of lemon and vanilla.
Rustic charm: Its slab format means you can cut generous pieces, making it a showstopper for gatherings.
Easy prep: With only 30 minutes of prep time, you’ll find this recipe is approachable even for novice bakers.
Versatile treat: Serve it warm with ice cream or chilled for a refreshing dessert—perfect for any occasion!
Crowd-pleaser: It’s a delightful way to impress friends and family, ensuring everyone will be asking for seconds.
Ingredients for Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards
For the Pie Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – This forms the base of your delicious crust, providing structure and flakiness.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed) – Cold butter is essential for a tender, flaky texture; be sure to keep it chilled until mixing.
- 1 tsp salt – A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness of the pie and balances flavors beautifully.
- 1/4 cup sugar – This adds a hint of sweetness to your crust, making it perfectly delectable.
- 1/4 cup ice water – Ice water helps bind the dough without warming up the butter, keeping your crust light and flaky.
For the Filling
- 4 cups fresh peaches (sliced) – Use ripe peaches for natural sweetness and juicy flavor that shines in this rustic dessert.
- 1/2 cup sugar – This sugar will sweeten the peach filling, allowing their natural flavors to pop in every bite.
- 2 tbsp cornstarch – Cornstarch thickens your filling, ensuring it’s not too runny when baked.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth to the fruity filling of your Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice – Lemon juice brightens up the flavors and complements the sweetness of the peaches beautifully.
Step-by-Step Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards
1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, blend together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1/4 cup sugar. Cut in 1 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, creating that perfect pie crust texture.
2. Form Dough: Stir in 1/4 cup of ice water until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into discs, wrap them in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
For the Filling:
3. Prepare Peaches: In a large bowl, mix together 4 cups of sliced fresh peaches, 1/2 cup sugar, 2 tbsp cornstarch, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 tbsp lemon juice until everything is well combined and juicy—this will be your sweet filling!
Assemble and Bake:
4. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C). Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface. Fit it into your baking dish and fill it generously with the peach mixture.
5. Top with Dough: Roll out the second disc of dough and carefully place it over the peach filling. Make sure to cut slits in the top for steam to escape—this ensures a beautifully baked crust!
6. Bake: Place your pie in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly, filling your home with delightful aromas.
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pro Tips for Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards
- Butter Temperature: Use cold, cubed butter for a flaky crust. It helps create those lovely layers that make your pie irresistible.
- Dough Consistency: If your dough feels too dry, add a teaspoon of ice water at a time until it holds together without being sticky.
- Peach Preparation: Choose ripe peaches for natural sweetness. If they’re under-ripe, you may need to add more sugar to balance the tartness in your filling.
- Cornstarch Usage: Ensure the cornstarch is well mixed with the sugar before adding it to the peaches. This prevents clumps and ensures even thickness in your filling.
- Steam Vents: Don’t skip cutting slits in the top crust! This allows steam to escape and prevents a soggy bottom, resulting in a perfectly baked Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pie towards the end of baking. Ovens can vary, and you want that golden-brown crust without burning.
How to Store and Freeze Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards
- Room Temperature: Enjoy your Peach Slab Pie at room temperature for up to 2 days. Cover it loosely with a kitchen towel to maintain its rustic charm.
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days. Place the pie in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
- Freezer: If you want to savor your pie longer, freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm pie again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards Your Way
Feel free to make this delightful dessert uniquely yours with these simple and delicious variations!
- Whole Wheat: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nutty flavor and added fiber. This swap gives the crust a heartier bite while maintaining that lovely flaky texture we all adore.
- Brown Sugar: Use brown sugar instead of white sugar in the crust for a deeper, caramel-like flavor. The richness of brown sugar beautifully complements the sweetness of the peaches, adding complexity to every bite.
- Vegan: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter to create a plant-based version. Your pie will still boast a flaky crust, and the tropical hint of coconut adds an exciting twist to this classic dessert.
- Spiced Peaches: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the peach filling for a warm, aromatic experience. These spices not only enhance the peach flavor but also evoke cozy memories of summer gatherings.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the filling for an extra burst of brightness. This small addition elevates the taste profile and balances the sweetness of the peaches perfectly.
- Nutty Crust: Mix in 1/4 cup of finely chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans) into your pie crust for added texture and flavor. The crunchiness from the nuts contrasts beautifully with the soft peaches, creating a delightful eating experience.
- Chili Flakes: For a surprising kick, sprinkle a pinch of red chili flakes into your peach filling. This unexpected heat will awaken your taste buds and add an intriguing depth to this sweet treat.
- Frozen Peaches: If fresh peaches aren’t available, substitute with frozen ones—just be sure to thaw and drain them first. While fresh is always best, this option allows you to enjoy this rustic pie year-round!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards is a breeze when you take advantage of meal prep. You can make the pie crust up to 3 days in advance; simply combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl, then cut in 1 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in 1/4 cup ice water until the dough forms, divide it into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate. For the filling, slice your peaches and mix them with 1/2 cup sugar, 2 tbsp cornstarch, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 tbsp lemon juice; this can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the crusts and assemble the pie as directed. This not only saves time but also ensures that your Peach Slab Pie remains fresh and delicious!
Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards Recipe FAQs
What type of peaches are best for this pie?
For this peach slab pie, fresh, ripe peaches are ideal. Look for those that are slightly soft to the touch and have a fragrant aroma. Yellow peaches offer a nice sweetness, while white peaches can add a subtle floral flavor. If you’re in a pinch, frozen peaches can work too—just ensure they’re fully thawed and drained before using.
Can I use a different type of fruit for the filling?
Absolutely! While this recipe celebrates the deliciousness of peaches, you can swap them out for other fruits like nectarines, plums, or even berries. Just keep in mind that different fruits may require slight adjustments in sugar and cornstarch amounts based on their juiciness.
How should I store leftover peach slab pie?
To store your peach slab pie, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you have a large piece left over, simply slice it into individual servings for easy snacking!
Can I freeze the peach slab pie?
Yes! This pie freezes beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, wrap individual slices or the whole pie tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
What should I do if my crust is too crumbly?
If your crust is crumbling apart instead of holding together, it might need more moisture. Gradually add an additional tablespoon of ice water until it comes together without being sticky. Also, make sure not to overwork the dough; mixing until just combined will yield a tender crust.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This delightful peach slab pie serves about 4 people. Each serving is approximately 300 calories, making it a perfect dessert for a small gathering or family dinner. If you’re expecting company or want leftovers for later, consider doubling the recipe to ensure everyone gets a generous slice!
Peach Slab Pie
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water until dough forms.
- Divide dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix sliced peaches, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one disc of dough and fit into the baking dish. Fill with peach mixture.
- Roll out the second disc of dough and place over the filling. Cut slits for steam to escape.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
