Imagine sinking your fork into a warm Peach Slab Pie, the scent of caramelized peaches mingling with buttery crust wafting through the air, making your taste buds dance in anticipation. Each bite bursts with sweet juiciness, while the crispy edges provide a delightful crunch—this dessert is what summer dreams are made of.
Reflecting on my childhood, I recall family gatherings where this pie was the star attraction, drawing friends and relatives together for a slice of nostalgia and joy. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a cozy picnic, nothing beats sharing this Peach Slab Pie, inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards, as laughter fills the air and memories are made over its delectable flavors.
Why Is Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards So Irresistibly Good?
Fresh peaches shine in this delightful dessert, bringing a burst of summer sweetness to every slice. Easy to prepare, this recipe requires just 30 minutes of prep, making it perfect for busy bakers. Versatile enough for any gathering, it’s ideal for potlucks and family reunions. Crowd-pleasing flavor combines buttery crust with fruity filling that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to showcase seasonal produce!
Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards Ingredients
For the Filling
- 4 cups sliced peaches (fresh) – Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor in your Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards.
- 1 cup sugar – This sweetener balances the tartness of the peaches beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch – Helps thicken the filling, ensuring it holds together when sliced.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a warm, aromatic note that enhances the peach flavor.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice – Brightens up the filling and complements the sweetness of the peaches.
For the Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides a sturdy base for your pie; sift for a lighter texture if desired.
- 1 cup butter (cold and cubed) – Cold butter creates flaky layers in the crust; don’t let it soften!
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors while balancing sweetness; essential for a well-rounded taste.
- 1 cup ice water – Keeps the dough cool and manageable; use just enough to bring it together without overworking.
Step-by-Step Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards
1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. This forms the base of your crust, creating a lovely foundation for your fruity filling.
2. Cut in Butter: Cut in 1 cup of cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You want those buttery chunks to create a flaky texture—so don’t overwork it!
3. Add Ice Water: Stir in 1 cup of ice water until a dough forms. This should come together nicely; it’s okay if it’s a bit sticky. Wrap it up and chill while preparing the filling.
4. Roll Out Dough: Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface until it’s about ¼ inch thick. Fit it into your baking dish, pressing gently to ensure even coverage.
5. Mix Peaches: In another bowl, mix together 4 cups of sliced fresh peaches, 1 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. This sweet and tangy mixture will bubble beautifully as it bakes!
6. Pour Filling: Pour the peach mixture into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. The vibrant colors should make your mouth water—this is where the magic happens!
7. Bake Pie: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
8. Cool Down: Let cool before serving to allow the filling to set up properly. Trust me; patience pays off when you slice into this delicious slab pie.
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips
- Peach Selection: Use ripe, fresh peaches for the best flavor; avoid overripe ones, which can make the filling too watery.
- Cornstarch Importance: Don’t skip the cornstarch; it thickens the filling and prevents a soggy crust, ensuring your Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards is perfectly set.
- Chill Your Dough: After mixing, let your pie crust dough chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps maintain its flakiness when baked.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining flour and butter, stop mixing once it resembles coarse crumbs; overmixing can lead to a tough crust.
- Cooling Time: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling firm up, making it easier to cut clean pieces.
How to Store and Freeze Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards
- Room Temperature: Keep your Peach Slab Pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered loosely with foil or a clean kitchen towel to maintain its crust’s texture.
- Fridge: Store leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container to preserve its delicious flavors.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of the Peach Slab Pie for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the crust is crisp again.
Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards Your Way
Feel free to get creative with this delightful dessert and customize it to suit your taste buds!
- Honey Sweetened: Replace sugar with ¾ cup honey for a natural sweetness. This will add a lovely floral note to the pie, enhancing the peach flavor beautifully.
- Mixed Berries: Incorporate 2 cups of fresh blueberries or raspberries along with the peaches for a burst of tartness. The added berries create a vibrant color contrast and an exciting flavor profile.
- Cinnamon Spice: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the filling for a warm, cozy flavor. This spice works wonders, giving your slab pie that extra comforting touch reminiscent of autumn.
- Almond Extract: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract to introduce a nutty aroma. Just a small amount can transform the dish, making it feel both sophisticated and unique.
- Gluten-Free Crust: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for a gluten-free option. The texture may be different, but it can still yield a deliciously flaky crust.
- Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest into the filling along with the lemon juice for an added citrus kick. This brightens up the pie and complements the sweetness of the peaches wonderfully.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeño in the filling for an unexpected heat. This twist will give your pie an exciting zing that surprises everyone at the table!
Make Ahead Options
This Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards is an ideal choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor its delightful flavors with minimal last-minute effort. You can prepare the filling with fresh peaches, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine these ingredients in a bowl and store them in the fridge. The crust can also be made ahead of time; mix together the flour and salt, cut in the cold butter until crumbly, and then stir in ice water to form the dough. Roll it out and fit it into a baking dish—this step can be done up to 3 days prior. When you’re ready to enjoy your pie, simply fill it with your prepared peach mixture and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool before serving, ensuring every slice is as delicious as freshly baked!
Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards Recipe FAQs
What type of peaches should I use for the filling?
For the best flavor and texture, choose ripe, fresh peaches. Varieties like Freestone or Clingstone are both excellent choices. If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can substitute with frozen sliced peaches; just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using them in your filling.
How can I ensure my crust turns out flaky?
To achieve that perfect flaky crust, it’s crucial to keep your butter cold. When you cut in the butter, aim for pea-sized pieces to create those lovely layers. Also, handle the dough as little as possible and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes after rolling it out and placing it in the baking dish.
Can I store leftovers, and how long will they last?
Absolutely! You can store any leftover peach slab pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for that freshly baked taste.
Is it possible to freeze peach slab pie?
Yes, you can freeze your peach slab pie! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating it.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This delightful peach slab pie serves about 4 people, making it perfect for a small gathering or a family dessert night. If you’re expecting more guests or just want leftovers (who wouldn’t?), feel free to double the recipe and bake it in a larger pan.
What if my filling is too runny?
If your filling seems too watery after mixing the ingredients, you might need a bit more cornstarch—try adding an extra teaspoon or two. Ensure your peaches are not overly ripe or juicy, as this can contribute to excess moisture. Baking also helps firm up the filling as it cooks!
Peach Slab Pie
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water until dough forms.
- Roll out the dough and fit it into a baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix sliced peaches, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
- Pour the peach mixture into the prepared crust.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- Let cool before serving.
