The summer sun has a magical way of infusing fresh fruits with vibrant sweetness, and nothing showcases that essence quite like a Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie. I discovered this delightful dessert during a backyard gathering, where one taste left me spellbound. The nutty aroma of the browned butter combined with the juicy burst of ripe peaches and strawberries is an invitation to gather around the table and savor the season.
This pie isn’t just a treat for the eyes; each slice reveals a luscious filling that perfectly balances flavors, while the flaky, golden lattice crust brings a charming elegance that’s surprisingly easy to create. Whether you’re looking for a sweet ending to a weekend dinner or a stunning contribution to a family gathering, this pie serves as a versatile crowd-pleaser that warms the heart while inviting compliments.
So grab your freshest fruits and let’s embark on this baking adventure! You’ll soon find that homemade desserts have a magic all their own.
Why is Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie irresistible?
Irresistible, this pie is a true showstopper that marries flavors effortlessly.
Nutty aroma of brown butter enhances the freshness of strawberries and peaches, elevating every bite.
Flaky crust crafted with care adds a homemade touch that rivals any bakery.
Versatile dessert, perfect for summer picnics or cozy family dinners, is bound to impress your guests.
Easy preparation ensures you can whip it up without stress, making it a go-to recipe.
Comforting and satisfying, it’s the kind of pie that will have you coming back for seconds!
Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
• Cold unsalted butter – 1 cup, chilled for the flakiness that makes every slice delightful.
• All-purpose flour – 2 ⅔ cups + 1 tbsp, use for a tender yet sturdy crust.
• Fine sea salt – ¾ teaspoon, to balance out the sweetness and enhance flavors.
• Water – ½ cup, keeps the dough moist without making it sticky.
• Apple cider or white vinegar – 1 tbsp, helps create a tender crust that’s easy to roll out.
• Whole egg – 1, whisked for achieving a golden and glossy finish on the crust.
For the Filling
• Fresh sliced peaches – 3 cups, ripe and juicy for that sweet summer flavor.
• Fresh strawberries – 3 cups, hulled and quartered, bursting with freshness to complement the peaches.
• Granulated sugar – ¼ cup, enhances the natural sweetness of the fruits.
• Cornstarch – ¼ cup + 1 tbsp, helps thicken the filling to prevent a soggy bottom.
• Lemon juice – 1 tbsp, adds brightness and balances the fruity sweetness perfectly.
• Lemon zest – 1 tsp, enhances the citrus aroma for a refreshing twist.
• Fine sea salt – ¼ tsp, a tiny pinch that amplifies the flavors of the fruit.
• Turbinado sugar – 2-3 tbsp, optional, for a delightful crunch and extra sweetness on top.
This Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie is sure to become a cherished dessert in your collection!
How to Make Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie
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Prepare the Butter: Line a shallow bowl with parchment paper. Cook the cold unsalted butter in a stainless steel pan over medium heat for 10-12 minutes until it reaches a medium brown color and releases a nutty aroma. Chill in the freezer until firm, approximately 1 hour.
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Cube the Butter: Once the browned butter has chilled, remove it from the freezer and cut it into cubes. Place the cubes back in the freezer to keep them cold.
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a stand mixer bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and fine sea salt. Add the cubed browned butter, mixing on low speed until the mixture resembles small, pea-sized pieces.
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Make the Dough: Measure out ½ cup of water and 1 tablespoon of vinegar, then add some ice to chill the mixture. Gradually drizzle the ice water into the flour-butter mix, using tablespoons until the dough begins to clump. Divide the dough into two rounds, wrap in plastic, flatten into discs, and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 425°F to begin preparing for the final bake.
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Roll Out the First Disc: On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about â…› inch thick and 12 inches in diameter. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie pan and chill while you roll out the second disc.
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Prepare the Lattice: Roll out the second disc to the same thickness, slice into 1-inch strips, and chill them on a parchment-lined tray.
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Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh sliced peaches, hulled quartered strawberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, cornstarch, and fine sea salt. Pour the fruit filling into the prepared pie crust.
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Assemble the Lattice: Arrange the lattice strips over the fruit filling, tucking the edges under the pie dish and crimping to seal. Brush the top with the whisked egg and sprinkle with Turbinado sugar if desired.
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Bake the Pie: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for 25 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for another 40-50 minutes. Cover the pie with foil if the crust browns too quickly.
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Cool Before Serving: Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for a minimum of 4 hours before serving, giving the filling time to set.
Optional: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie Variations
Customize this pie to excite your palette and bring your unique spin to each slice!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously inclusive dessert.
- Peach-Free: Swap out the peaches for fresh raspberries; their tartness pairs beautifully with strawberries for a vibrant twist.
- Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute like monk fruit or erythritol in the filling to cater to your health-conscious guests.
- Spiced: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the fruit filling for a warm, inviting flavor that makes summer nights cozy.
- Crust Alternatives: Use a pre-made pie crust or a graham cracker crust for a shortcut when time is short! This adds a delightful crunch.
- Make it Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use coconut oil instead of butter for a plant-based pie.
- Lemon Lovers: Increase the lemon juice and zest to 2 tablespoons each for an extra zingy filling that pops with bright flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in half a cup of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the fruit filling for added texture that enhances every bite.
Let your culinary creativity shine as you explore these variations!
How to Store and Freeze Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie
Room Temperature: Store the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the crust from getting soggy.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the pie in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure it is wrapped tightly to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy this delicious pie later, wrap it well in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to serve.
Reheating: To reheat, bake the pie in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes to revive its flaky crust and warm the filling.
What to Serve with Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie?
The perfect pie deserves delightful companions that elevate your dessert experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creamy richness, balancing the fruity tartness of the pie perfectly.
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Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of mint not only adds a vibrant pop of color but also refreshes the palate with each bite.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, freshly whipped cream enhances the pie’s richness and provides a delightful contrast to its textures.
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Sangria: A fruity, refreshing drink that complements the pie’s flavors, adding a festive touch to your dessert table.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A touch of melted chocolate on top creates a rich flavor contrast that takes your pie to indulgent new heights.
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Shortbread Cookies: Serve alongside your pie for a delightful crunch and buttery flavor that pairs well with the fruity filling while adding a contrasting texture.
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Lemon Sorbet: This tangy, icy dessert cleanses the palate and refreshes after each slice of the pie, creating a balanced finish to your meal.
Introduce these pairings and watch how they transform your Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie into a true celebration of flavors!
Expert Tips for Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie
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Brown the Butter Right: Cook the butter until it’s medium brown, not burnt, to achieve that rich, nutty flavor essential for making the Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie.
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Chill the Dough: Make sure your dough is well-chilled before rolling it out; this ensures a flaky crust and prevents shrinking during baking.
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Avoid a Soggy Bottom: Use cornstarch in the filling to absorb excess moisture from the fruits and prevent a soggy crust—key for a successful pie experience.
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Perfect Lattice: When arranging your lattice, keep the strips evenly spaced for an inviting look; this also helps the pie cook evenly.
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Cooling Time Matters: Let the pie cool for at least 4 hours before slicing. This allows the filling to set and prevents it from being runny when you cut it.
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Serve with Flair: Pairing slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful creaminess that elevates your Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie to the next level!
Make Ahead Options
These Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the pie crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance. For the crust, make the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The fruit filling can be mixed and stored in an airtight container in the fridge to keep its freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll out the chilled dough, add the filling, and assemble the lattice crust. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade dessert with minimal effort, ensuring that the pie tastes just as delightful on serving day!
Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie Recipe FAQs
What kind of peaches should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! Choose ripe, juicy peaches that smell fragrant and have a slight give when gently squeezed. Avoid those with dark spots all over, as they might be overripe. Ideal varieties include freestone peaches, as they are easier to slice and incorporate into your pie!
How long can I store my Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie?
You can keep your pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, allowing those flavors to meld magnificently. For extended freshness, store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; just make sure it’s tightly wrapped to fend off any fridge odors.
Can I freeze this pie for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the pie well in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place it in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie, thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
What should I do if the crust is too brown while baking?
Not to worry! If you notice your crust browning too quickly during baking, cover the pie loosely with aluminum foil. This will create a shield to prevent the top from burning while allowing the filling to bake through.
Is this pie safe for my pets or people with allergies?
Keep in mind that this pie contains ingredients like butter and sugar, both of which are not suitable for pets. For allergy concerns, it’s always best to check for any gluten or dairy allergies, as the pie crust and filling contain all-purpose flour and butter.
How can I prevent a soggy bottom crust?
The key to avoiding a soggy bottom is using cornstarch in your filling, as it acts as a thickener and absorbs excess moisture released from the fruits. Additionally, ensure your pie crust is prepped and chilled effectively to maintain its texture while baking.
Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie That Will Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Butter: Cook cold unsalted butter in a stainless steel pan over medium heat for 10-12 minutes until it reaches a medium brown color. Chill in the freezer until firm, about 1 hour.
- Cube the Butter: Cut the chilled browned butter into cubes and keep them in the freezer.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a stand mixer, combine the flour and salt. Add the cubed butter and mix on low speed until resembling pea-sized pieces.
- Make the Dough: Combine water and vinegar with ice, then gradually add to the flour mixture until clumping. Divide into two rounds, wrap in plastic, flatten into discs, and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the Oven: Set oven to preheat at 425°F.
- Roll Out the First Disc: Roll one disc to â…› inch thick, place in 9-inch pie pan, and chill.
- Prepare the Lattice: Roll the second disc, slice into strips, and chill on a parchment-lined tray.
- Mix the Filling: Combine peaches, strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, zest, cornstarch, and salt in a bowl. Pour into the prepared pie crust.
- Assemble the Lattice: Arrange lattice over the filling, tuck edges, crimp to seal, and brush with whisked egg. Sprinkle turbinado sugar if desired.
- Bake the Pie: Place on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes, then lower temperature to 350°F and bake for another 40-50 minutes, covering with foil if necessary.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow pie to cool for at least 4 hours before serving.