Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie

The Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie is an irresistible dessert that combines the best of summer fruits—fresh, juicy strawberries and peaches—along with a nutty, rich brown butter pie crust. This pie brings together sweet, tangy fruit flavors with the depth and complexity of brown butter for an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a weekend celebration, or just because, this pie will certainly become a crowd favorite.

The crust is the true standout here, thanks to the brown butter that infuses it with a rich, nutty flavor. It’s flaky, buttery, and perfectly complements the fresh fruit filling. The filling itself is a balanced mix of sweet peaches and strawberries, thickened with cornstarch, and enhanced by the brightness of lemon juice and zest. With each bite, you get the warm, melt-in-your-mouth buttery crust combined with a juicy, flavorful filling. This pie is best served fresh out of the oven, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. Get ready to treat yourself to a slice (or two) of pure pie perfection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. The Richness of Brown Butter

The brown butter pie crust adds a level of complexity and richness to this dessert that you won’t find in a typical pie crust. The nutty flavor of brown butter enhances every bite, making it extra special.

2. Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tart

The combination of ripe peaches and strawberries creates a balanced flavor profile. The sweetness of the peaches pairs beautifully with the tangy strawberries, while the lemon juice and zest elevate the filling.

3. Flaky and Buttery Crust

The brown butter crust is incredibly flaky and tender, with a perfect crispiness that contrasts with the juicy filling. It’s the ultimate complement to the fruit.

4. Seasonal Fruit at Its Best

This pie takes advantage of fresh, in-season strawberries and peaches, making it a wonderful choice for summer gatherings. The fruit filling is vibrant and bursting with flavor.

5. Impressive Yet Simple

Despite its impressive flavors and sophisticated crust, this pie is relatively simple to make. The process of making the brown butter and assembling the pie is straightforward, and the results are truly rewarding.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

Brown Butter Pie Crust

• Cold unsalted butter
• All-purpose flour
• Fine sea salt
• Water
• Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
• 1 whole egg, whisked

Strawberry and Peach Filling

• Fresh sliced peaches
• Fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
• Granulated sugar
• Cornstarch
• Lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Fine sea salt
• Turbinado sugar (optional)

Variations

1. Other Fruit Combinations: If strawberries and peaches aren’t your favorites, you can easily swap them with other seasonal fruits like blackberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a different twist.
2. Spicy Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a spiced variation that adds warmth and depth.
3. Vegan Crust: For a vegan option, substitute the butter in the crust with a plant-based butter alternative and replace the egg wash with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
4. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the crust and filling gluten-free.
5. Lattice Crust: Instead of a full top crust, create a beautiful lattice crust for a decorative finish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Brown Butter Pie Crust

1. Begin by browning the butter. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue to cook the butter, swirling the pan occasionally, until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and sea salt. Slowly add the brown butter, stirring it in with a spatula until the mixture is crumbly.
3. Gradually add water and vinegar, stirring until the dough begins to form. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time, until it comes together.
4. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the fresh sliced peaches, quartered strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, and sea salt. Stir until the fruit is coated evenly with the sugar and cornstarch mixture.
2. Let the fruit sit for about 15 minutes to allow the juices to release and the filling to thicken slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the chilled pie dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place the rolled dough into the pie dish and trim any excess, leaving a small overhang.
3. Pour the prepared fruit filling into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
4. If using a full top crust, roll out the remaining dough and place it over the pie. Crimp the edges to seal the pie and make a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape. If using a lattice crust, arrange strips of dough over the filling in a crisscross pattern.
5. Brush the top crust with the whisked egg for a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle with Turbinado sugar for added texture and sweetness.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

1. Place the pie in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
2. If the edges of the crust brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
3. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Chill the dough: Chilling the dough before rolling it out helps it maintain its structure and results in a flakier crust.
• Don’t overfill: Be mindful not to overfill the pie with the fruit mixture, as it can overflow during baking.
• Use cold butter: For a flakier crust, ensure the butter is cold when making the dough.
• Let the pie cool: Allow the pie to cool before cutting to ensure the filling sets and slices more cleanly.

How to Serve

Serve the Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. It’s also delicious served at room temperature with a cup of tea or coffee.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have a lot of leftovers, it can also be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

To freeze the pie, let it cool completely and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake the frozen pie at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until warmed through.

Reheating

To reheat a slice, microwave for 20-30 seconds or place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen peaches and strawberries?

Fresh fruit is preferred for the best flavor and texture, but you can use frozen fruit if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

2. Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Yes, the pie crust dough can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

3. Can I make the filling ahead of time?

While it’s best to assemble the pie shortly before baking, you can prepare the fruit filling up to a day ahead. Just refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it.

4. What if my pie crust is too soft to work with?

If your pie dough becomes too soft while rolling, chill it for 10-15 minutes before continuing.

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

You can use a store-bought pie crust, but the homemade brown butter crust will add extra flavor and texture to this pie.

6. How do I prevent the pie crust from getting soggy?

Make sure to pre-bake the crust for about 10 minutes if using a single crust or allow the pie to cool before cutting to prevent sogginess.

7. Can I use a different sugar for the crust?

Yes, you can use other sugars like brown sugar or coconut sugar for a slightly different flavor in the crust.

8. Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is preferred for its mild flavor, but you can also use white vinegar or even lemon juice in place of it.

9. What should I do if my pie filling is too runny?

If the filling seems too runny after baking, let it cool completely. The cornstarch will thicken as it cools.

10. How long will this pie stay fresh?

This pie is best enjoyed within 2-3 days of baking but will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Conclusion

The Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie is a perfect combination of summer fruit and rich, nutty flavors. With a flaky, golden crust and a sweet, tangy filling, it’s a dessert that will impress your guests and become a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to enjoy on a warm summer evening, this pie is sure to delight.

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