Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie

The Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries and peaches with a rich, nutty brown butter crust. This pie is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or simply enjoying at home after dinner. With its inviting aroma and luscious filling, it’s sure to impress your family and friends while providing a taste of seasonal freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of strawberries and peaches creates a sweet and tart filling that pairs perfectly with the nutty notes of brown butter.
• Versatile Dessert: Great for any occasion, from summer barbecues to cozy family dinners.
• Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, this pie comes together with straightforward steps that even beginner bakers can follow.
• Serve It Your Way: Enjoy it warm with vanilla ice cream or chilled with whipped cream—either way, it’s a treat!
• Seasonal Freshness: Utilize fresh fruits during their peak season for the best flavor and texture.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Pie dish
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool makes mixing the pie crust quick and effortless.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out your dough evenly for a perfectly shaped crust.
• Pie dish: A good quality pie dish ensures even baking and a beautiful presentation.

Ingredients

Strawberry peach pie- fresh, juicy peaches and strawberries encased in a buttery brown butter crust. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and enjoy it all summer long!

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 Brown Butter Crust

Start by browning your butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir it frequently until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Let it cool slightly before using it in your crust.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a food processor, combine the flour and salt. Add the cooled brown butter and pulse until crumbly. Gradually add water mixed with vinegar until the dough holds together. Divide into two disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least an hour.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, mix together sliced peaches, quartered strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt until well combined. Set aside to let the juices mingle.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out one disk of dough into a circle large enough to fit your pie dish. Transfer it carefully to the dish.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Pour the fruit filling into the prepared crust. Roll out the second disk of dough for the top crust or create a lattice design if desired. Seal edges well.

Step 6: Bake

Sprinkle Turbinado sugar on top if using. Bake in preheated oven for about 70 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and juices are bubbling.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

Let your Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie cool at room temperature before slicing. Serve warm or cold with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat!

How to Serve Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie

Serving your Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie is as delightful as making it. This pie pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its sweet and buttery flavor.

A La Mode

• Serve a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of each slice for a classic combination. The creaminess perfectly balances the pie’s sweetness.

Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top your pie with freshly whipped cream to add a light, airy touch. A dollop on each slice makes it even more indulgent.

Caramel Drizzle

• Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the pie for an extra layer of richness. It complements the fruit flavors beautifully.

Lemon Zest Garnish

• Sprinkle fresh lemon zest on top before serving for a pop of color and brightness. This adds a refreshing contrast to the pie’s sweetness.

Mint Leaves

• Add a few fresh mint leaves on the plate for garnish. They provide a lovely aroma and a hint of freshness that pairs well with the fruit.

How to Perfect Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie

To make your Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and water are cold when making the crust. This helps achieve a flaky texture.

• Don’t Skip Browning the Butter: Carefully brown the butter until it’s golden and fragrant. This step adds depth and nuttiness to your pie.

• Let the Pie Cool Completely: Allow your pie to cool before slicing. This helps the filling set properly and prevents it from being runny.

• Use Seasonal Fruits: Choose ripe, in-season strawberries and peaches for the best flavor. Fresh fruits enhance the overall taste of your pie.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor boost in the filling.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie

Pairing side dishes with your Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic choice that complements the pie’s flavors while adding creaminess.

2. Berry Compote
   A warm berry compote can enhance fruit flavors and add a tangy sweetness to each bite.

3. Chocolate Sauce
   For chocolate lovers, drizzling chocolate sauce over each slice can elevate this dessert into something extraordinary.

4. Cheesecake Bites
   Mini cheesecake bites provide a rich contrast to the fruity pie without overpowering it.

5. Pecan Sandies
   These buttery cookies offer crunch alongside the softness of the pie, creating an enjoyable textural contrast.

6. Fruit Salad
   A light mixed fruit salad can refresh your palate between bites of rich pie, adding variety to your dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating a Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using warm butter: Make sure your butter is cold when making the crust. Warm butter can lead to a greasy texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the crust tough instead of flaky.
• Ignoring the fruit prep: Ensure your fruit is properly sliced and hulled. This helps achieve even cooking and prevents excess moisture.
• Skipping the chilling step: Always chill your pie crust before baking. This helps maintain its shape during baking.
• Not adjusting sugar levels: Taste your fruit before adding sugar. Depending on ripeness, you may need more or less sugar.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
• The pie can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common 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 fruit, but thaw it and drain excess moisture before using to prevent a soggy pie.

How do I know when my pie is done?

The pie should be bubbly and golden brown on top. You can also check that the crust is fully baked by looking at its color.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

You can add other fruits like blueberries or raspberries, or incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor.

Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the crust and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before using it. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature before rolling out.

Final Thoughts

This Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie is a wonderful summer dessert that combines juicy peaches and strawberries with a rich, nutty crust. Its versatility allows you to customize the filling with your favorite fruits or spices, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!