Imagine sinking your fork into a warm, buttery crust that crumbles delicately as you uncover the vibrant, juicy peach filling bursting with sweet summer flavors. That’s the magic of Peach Slab Pie, inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards—a dessert so good it could make even the grumpiest of food critics crack a smile.
This delightful treat is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simply savoring on a quiet evening while reminiscing about sun-soaked days. Trust me, each bite promises an explosion of flavor that dances on your palate, leaving you eagerly anticipating the next slice.
Why Is Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards So Irresistibly Good?
Deliciously sweet, this Peach Slab Pie combines juicy peaches with a hint of vanilla and lemon for a flavor that bursts in your mouth. Simple to make, with just 30 minutes of prep time, it’s perfect for busy bakers. Versatile enough to serve at any gathering, it’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Crowd-pleasing appeal means everyone will be coming back for seconds! Plus, it’s easy to slice and share, making it the ideal dessert for potlucks or picnics.
Ingredients for Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards
For the Filling
- 4 cups sliced peaches – Fresh, ripe peaches bring a sweet, juicy flavor that infuses every bite of this delightful dessert.
- 1 cup sugar (adjust to taste) – Sweeten to your preference; you can reduce the amount if your peaches are particularly sweet.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch – This helps thicken the filling, ensuring it holds together beautifully when baked.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – A splash of acidity brightens the peach flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a warm, aromatic note that complements the fruity filling perfectly.
For the Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base for a flaky, tender crust that will cradle your luscious peach filling.
- 1 cup butter (cold and cubed) – Using cold butter is crucial for a flaky texture; it creates pockets of steam during baking.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors in both the crust and filling, making everything more delicious.
- 1/4 cup ice water – Helps bring the dough together without melting the butter, ensuring a perfect crust consistency.
Step-by-Step Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards
1. Combine ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Cut in 1 cup of cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, ensuring it stays cool for the perfect crust.
2. Form the dough: Stir in 1/4 cup of ice water gradually until a dough forms. Don’t overwork it; you want that flaky texture! This should take just a few minutes.
3. Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving a tender, flaky crust.
For the Filling:
4. Mix peaches and sugar: In a bowl, mix together 4 cups of sliced peaches, 1 cup of sugar (adjust to taste), 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should be juicy yet thick.
5. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your pie bakes evenly and develops that beautiful golden color.
6. Roll out the dough: Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and fit it into your baking dish, creating an even layer that hugs the edges perfectly.
7. Add filling: Pour the luscious peach filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. The vibrant colors will make your mouth water with anticipation!
8. Bake to perfection: Bake for 45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and bubbly around the edges. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time!
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips
- Peach Quality: Use ripe, fragrant peaches for optimal sweetness. Overripe peaches can be mushy, while under-ripe ones may lack flavor.
- Sugar Adjustment: Taste your peach filling before baking and adjust the sugar level if necessary. The sweetness of peaches can vary significantly.
- Cornstarch Usage: Ensure cornstarch is mixed thoroughly to avoid clumps. This will help achieve a beautifully thick filling in your Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards.
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip refrigerating the dough! Chilling helps maintain flakiness in your crust and prevents it from shrinking during baking.
- Golden Crust Check: Keep an eye on baking time; ovens vary. The crust should be golden brown, but setting a timer will help prevent overbaking.
- Let It Cool: Allow your slab pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes for cleaner slices!
How to Store and Freeze Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards
- Room Temperature: Store leftover Peach Slab Pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
- Fridge: Keep your pie in the fridge for up to 5 days; cover it with foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying out and maintain its delightful flavors.
- Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze slices of Peach Slab Pie in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap each slice in plastic wrap before placing it in the container for added protection.
- Reheating: Reheat frozen slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through, ensuring that each bite is just as delicious as the first!
Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards Variations
Feel free to indulge your creativity and tailor this delightful dessert to suit your taste buds!
- Sugar-Free: Substitute sugar with your favorite sweetener, like stevia or erythritol. This variation is perfect for those watching their sugar intake while still enjoying a flavorful pie. Adjust the amount based on the sweetness level you desire.
- Berry Bliss: Add 1 cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries to the peach filling for a burst of tartness. The combination of peaches and berries creates a vibrant mix that’s both refreshing and visually stunning, making every slice a treat for the eyes and palate.
- Nutty Crust: Incorporate 1/2 cup finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, into the crust for added crunch. This twist not only enhances the texture but also adds a delightful nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with sweet peaches.
- Cinnamon Spice: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon into your peach filling for a warm, cozy twist. The aromatic spices will elevate your pie’s flavor profile, wrapping you in a comforting embrace with every bite.
- Grilled Peaches: For a smoky flavor, grill peach slices before adding them to the filling. This method caramelizes the fruit, intensifying its natural sweetness while infusing it with a hint of charred goodness—perfect for summer gatherings!
- Ginger Kick: Add 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger to the peach filling for a zesty surprise. This addition brings an unexpected warmth that complements the sweetness of the peaches and awakens your taste buds.
- Vegan Crust: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter in the crust recipe for a plant-based option. This swap maintains flakiness while making it suitable for vegan diets, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice of this delicious pie!
Make Ahead Options
This Peach Slab Pie Inspired by the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards is a delightful option for meal prep, allowing you to savor summer’s sweetness any time of year. You can prepare the crust and filling in advance, making it easy to whip up this dessert when you’re ready to impress your family or guests. For the crust, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt, then cut in 1 cup of cold, cubed butter until you achieve a coarse crumb texture. Stir in 1/4 cup of ice water to form the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Meanwhile, slice your peaches and mix them with 1 cup of sugar (adjustable to taste), 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract; this filling can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead as well. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), roll out the chilled dough into your baking dish, pour in the peach filling, and bake for about 45 minutes until the crust is golden brown. This way, you save precious time while still enjoying a homemade treat!
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, opt for ripe, juicy peaches. Freestone varieties are ideal because they easily separate from the pit and provide a sweet, succulent filling. If fresh peaches aren’t in season, you can also use frozen peaches—just make sure to thaw and drain them before mixing with the other ingredients.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the pie?
Absolutely! The recipe calls for 1 cup of sugar, but feel free to adjust this amount based on your taste preferences. If you’re using sweeter peaches, you might want to reduce it a bit. Alternatively, consider using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
How should I store leftover Peach Slab Pie?
To keep your pie fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It should stay good for about 3-4 days. Just remember that the crust may lose some of its crispness over time.
Can I freeze the Peach Slab Pie?
Yes! This pie freezes beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven.
What if my crust is too crumbly?
If your dough is crumbling and not holding together well after mixing, try adding a little more ice water—one tablespoon at a time—until it comes together into a cohesive ball. Be careful not to overwork the dough; mixing until just combined will yield a flakier crust!
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This delightful Peach Slab Pie serves about 4 people, making it perfect for an intimate family gathering or a small dinner party. Each serving contains approximately 300 calories, allowing you to indulge without going overboard!
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.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix sliced peaches, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough and fit it into a baking dish.
- Pour the peach filling into the crust. Bake for 45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.