The sweet, sun-kissed scent of fresh peaches brings back memories of lazy summer afternoons and juicy bites that will make your taste buds dance. I can almost hear my friends and family laughing as we gather around the table, eagerly anticipating my Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling. This recipe is a delightful crowd-pleaser, perfect for those sunny days and effortless enough for any home chef. With just 20 minutes of prep and an irresistible creamy twist on a classic pie, it’s an excellent way to impress your guests without feeling overwhelmed in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead dessert; just let it chill in the fridge, and you’re good to go. Are you ready to whip up a slice of summer happiness?
Why is this pie a must-try?
Irresistible Creaminess: The blend of cream cheese and peaches creates a dreamy filling that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Effortless Preparation: You’ll spend just 20 minutes in the kitchen, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
Seasonal Delight: Made with fresh peaches, it captures the essence of summer, turning every bite into a joyful experience.
Mouth-Watering Presentation: This pie not only tastes fantastic but looks beautiful on any table, making it the ultimate showstopper.
Versatile Dessert: Pair it with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra indulgent treat! Try this Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling and watch it become a favorite at your gatherings.
Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling
• Here’s everything you need!
For the Pie
• Pie crust – Choose store-bought for convenience or make your own for a personal touch.
• Pie weights or dry beans – These help keep the crust from puffing up during baking.
For the Filling
• Peaches – Fresh, ripe peaches are essential for the best flavor; choose ones that are slightly soft to the touch.
• Cream Cheese – This adds a rich, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the fresh fruit.
• Sugar – Balances the sweetness of the peaches and enhances the cream cheese filling.
• Milk – Makes the filling smooth and easy to spread.
• Almond Extract – Just a hint adds a lovely depth of flavor to the cream cheese.
For the Glaze
• Peach Glaze – This gives your pie a beautiful shine and an extra burst of peach flavor.
With these ingredients, you're on your way to creating a delightful Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling that's sure to impress your family and friends! Happy baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling
Step 1: Blanch and Cool the Peaches
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully place the 4 cups of peaches into the boiling water for about 1 minute to blanch them. Then, quickly transfer the peaches to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. This step will make peeling easy and prevent the peaches from getting mushy.
Step 2: Prepare the Peaches
Once the peaches have cooled completely, remove them from the ice bath, and gently peel and pit them. Dice the peaches into 1-inch pieces and place them in a mixing bowl. Next, toss the diced peaches with the jar of peach glaze until they are fully coated, adding a sweet layer of flavor for your Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a stand mixer or a large bowl, combine the 8 oz of cream cheese, ½ cup of sugar, ¼ cup of milk, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Blend them together on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes or until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. The cream cheese mixture should be light and fluffy, ready to bring richness to your pie.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Once your pie crust is baked and cooled, spread the creamy filling evenly into the crust using a spatula. Layer the glazed peaches on top of the cream cheese filling, arranging them in a beautiful pattern. This creates a visually stunning centerpiece for your Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling, making it irresistible.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Cover the assembled pie with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld beautifully and sets the filling. The waiting may be tough, but it's worth it for the creamy texture and fresh taste that will greet your guests on serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cream cheese filling and refrigerate it up to 3 days in advance, to retain its rich and creamy texture. Additionally, you can blanch and peel the peaches a day ahead, storing them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent browning. On the day you plan to serve, simply toss the diced peaches with the glaze, spread the cream cheese mixture in the pie crust, layer the peaches, and chill the assembled pie for at least 1 hour before serving. This way, you'll have a delightful dessert ready to impress with minimal last-minute effort!
Expert Tips for Fresh Peach Pie
- Peach Selection: Choose slightly soft, ripe peaches for the sweetest flavor in your Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling. Hard peaches may not soften enough during cooking.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix your cream cheese filling just until smooth. Overmixing can make it too runny, affecting the texture.
- Chill Time Matters: Don’t skip the chilling step! Proper refrigeration helps the filling set, ensuring the pie holds its shape when sliced.
- Pre-Bake Crust: Ensure your pie crust is fully cooled before adding the filling. A warm crust can cause the cream cheese mixture to become too soft.
- Presentation Tip: For a gradient look, layer peaches from light to dark, creating an eye-catching pattern that’s sure to impress your guests.
Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with delightful twists that elevate your Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with almond or coconut cream for a vegan-friendly filling that’s just as creamy.
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Fruit Fusion: Add diced strawberries or blueberries to the peaches for a colorful, mixed fruit pie bursting with flavor.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans on top of the peaches before refrigerating for a satisfying crunch and added texture.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese filling for a warm spice that compliments the peaches beautifully.
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Lemon Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon zest into the cream cheese mixture for a refreshing, zesty sparkle that enhances the peach sweetness.
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Graham Cracker Crust: Swap the pie crust for a graham cracker crust for a delightful, no-fuss base that adds a hint of caramel flavor.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the glazed peaches before serving for a decadent, sweet finish that transforms your pie into a dessert masterpiece.
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Chocolate Layer: For chocolate lovers, spread a thin layer of melted chocolate on the pie crust before adding the cream cheese filling for a scrumptiously rich surprise.
With these variations, you can tailor your Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling to suit every mood and occasion. Enjoy the journey of making it uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling
Enhancing your dessert experience is as easy as adding the right companions to your Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the peach flavors in every bite.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of whipped cream adds a delightful texture that perfectly complements the richness of the pie.
- Sparkling Water: Crisp and refreshing, sparkling water cleanses the palate between sweet bites and keeps the meal light and enjoyable.
- Fresh Berries: Serve a side of mixed fresh berries for a tart burst of flavor that contrasts the pie's sweetness while adding a colorful display.
- Peach-Infused Iced Tea: A chilled glass of peach-infused iced tea echoes the pie's flavors and offers a lovely breeze of summer on warm days.
- Arugula Salad: The peppery arugula with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch and brightness, balancing the pie’s richness well.
- Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: For the chocolate lovers, drizzling a warm chocolate ganache over each slice introduces a luscious decadence that pairs surprisingly well with peaches.
- Lemon Sorbet: Clean and zesty, lemon sorbet provides a refreshing contrast, cleansing your palate and refreshing your senses after the sweet pie.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy cheeses, such as Brie or Goat cheese, adds luxurious depth and creates a beautiful contrast with the fruity pie.
How to Store and Freeze Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling
Fridge: Store your assembled pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered with plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
Freezer: If needed, you can freeze the pie for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy your pie after freezing, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Serve chilled or let it sit at room temperature before indulging in its creamy goodness.
Slicing Tip: For neat slices of your Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling, use a warm knife and wipe it clean between cuts. This ensures every piece looks as delightful as it tastes!
Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best peaches for this pie?
Absolutely! When selecting peaches, aim for fresh, ripe ones that are slightly soft to the touch. This indicates they’re sweet and juicy, which is essential for an excellent Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling. Look for peaches without dark spots or blemishes, as these can affect the flavor and texture.
How should I store my Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling?
Very! You can store the assembled pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cover it loosely with plastic wrap to maintain its freshness and prevent drying out. If you have leftovers that might last longer, consider freezing them!
Can I freeze this pie?
Of course! To freeze the Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This double-wrapping helps prevent freezer burn. You can store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
What if the cream cheese mixture is too runny?
No worries! If your cream cheese mixture ends up too runny, try mixing it for a shorter duration next time. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, making it less stable. If it's already too runny, you might add a tablespoon of cornstarch to help thicken it up a bit. Just fold it in gently, and it should help maintain that creamy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Definitely! This pie contains cream cheese, sugar, and almond extract, which are not suitable for pets, especially dogs, as dairy and sugar can upset their stomachs. Additionally, if you're serving guests with allergies, be mindful that the pie crust and filling may contain gluten and dairy. Always check labels and communicate with guests about ingredients used.
Irresistibly Creamy Fresh Peach Pie with Cream Cheese Filling
Equipment
- Large pot
- mixing bowl
- stand mixer
- spatula
- Plastic wrap
Ingredients
For the Pie
- 1 pie crust Pie crust Store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup Pie weights or dry beans
For the Filling
- 4 cups Peaches Fresh, ripe peaches that are slightly soft
- 8 oz Cream Cheese Softened for easy mixing
- ½ cup Sugar
- ¼ cup Milk
- 1 teaspoon Almond Extract
For the Glaze
- 1 jar Peach Glaze
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully place the peaches into the boiling water for about 1 minute to blanch them. Then, quickly transfer the peaches to an ice bath.
- Once the peaches have cooled completely, remove them from the ice bath, and gently peel and pit them. Dice the peaches into 1-inch pieces and toss them with the peach glaze until fully coated.
- In a stand mixer or a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sugar, milk, and almond extract. Blend them together on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Once your pie crust is baked and cooled, spread the creamy filling evenly into the crust. Layer the glazed peaches on top in a beautiful pattern.
- Cover the assembled pie with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to chill.
