There’s something undeniably special about baking a fresh peach pie in the heart of summer. The sweet aroma of juicy ripe peaches mingling with a flaky pie crust feels like pure homemade comfort. If you’ve ever wondered how to capture the taste of summer fruit desserts in a single bite, this foolproof recipe is your answer.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a slice of old-fashioned peach pie, this recipe offers just the right balance of sweetness and texture. Using fresh peaches brings out a natural, vibrant flavor that canned fruit just can’t match. And don’t worry—if making peach pie from scratch feels intimidating, I’ll guide you through each simple step so you can enjoy that golden-brown crust with confidence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’ve been searching for an easy peach pie recipe that delivers both flavor and nostalgia, this is it. There’s something magical about the combination of juicy ripe peaches nestled inside a flaky pie crust, baked until golden and bubbling. Here’s why this homemade peach pie deserves a spot in your summer dessert lineup:
1. Simple, Fresh Ingredients
You don’t need anything fancy to make this pie shine. With just fresh peaches, a handful of pantry staples, and a good-quality pie crust, you’ll bring out the best of summer fruit desserts.
2. Foolproof Method
Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe walks you through each step—from making the peach pie filling to achieving that perfect golden-brown crust. No guesswork, no complicated techniques.
3. Bursting with Summer Flavor
Using fresh peaches means every bite is packed with natural sweetness and that irresistible juicy texture. It’s the perfect dessert for picnics, cookouts, or any sunny day when you want something light yet satisfying.
4. Versatile and Customizable
Whether you prefer your pie with a lattice crust, a crumb topping, or classic double crust, this recipe allows room for creativity. Plus, you can adjust the level of sweetness or add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.
5. Perfect for Make-Ahead
This peach pie tastes just as good the next day—maybe even better. The flavors come together perfectly, turning leftovers into a meal you’ll actually be excited to eat.
Ingredients for Fresh Peach Pie
Before we dive into the baking process, let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need for this homemade peach pie. Using fresh, ripe peaches is key—they’re the star of this summer dessert, after all! Below is a simple, straightforward ingredient list with a few helpful tips to ensure success.
the Peach Filling:
- 6 to 7 fresh peaches (about 2 ½ to 3 pounds), peeled and sliced
Look for peaches that are fragrant and slightly soft to the touch for the juiciest flavor. - ¾ cup granulated sugar
Feel free to adjust depending on how sweet your peaches are. - 2 to 3 tablespoons cornstarch
This helps thicken the filling so it’s not too runny. If you prefer, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute. - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Adds brightness and keeps the peaches from browning. - ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
For a warm, cozy touch that complements the peaches beautifully. - ¼ teaspoon salt
A small but important ingredient to balance the sweetness.
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 package of refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade double-crust pie dough)
Store-bought works great in a pinch, but making your own adds a personal touch and extra flakiness.
For the Finishing Touch:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Dotting butter on top of the filling before adding the crust gives richness to every bite. - 1 egg + 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Brushing the crust with this mixture helps create that irresistible golden-brown crust. - Optional: Coarse sugar for sprinkling
Adds a little sparkle and crunch to the finished pie.
Ingredient Tips for Success:
- Fresh vs. Frozen Peaches: If peaches aren’t in season, you can use frozen (thawed and drained) peaches—but nothing beats fresh when it comes to flavor and texture.
- Sweetness Check: Always taste your peaches before adding sugar. Adjust as needed based on ripeness.
- Thickening Options: Cornstarch creates a clear, glossy filling, while flour gives a more rustic, cloudy look. Choose based on your preference.
How To Make Fresh Peach Pie
Baking a fresh peach pie from scratch might sound like a project, but don’t worry—this foolproof recipe makes the process simple and rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a homemade peach pie that’s full of flavor and beautifully golden.
1. Prepare the Pie Crust
- If using homemade dough: Roll out one disc of your pie crust on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 12 inches in diameter.
- For store-bought crusts: Simply unroll and fit one crust into a 9-inch pie pan, pressing gently into the bottom and up the sides.
Tip: Place the prepared crust in the refrigerator while you make the filling to keep it cold and help prevent shrinking during baking.
2. Make the Peach Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Sliced fresh peaches
- Granulated sugar
- Cornstarch (or flour)
- Lemon juice
- Ground cinnamon (if using)
- Salt
- Toss everything gently until the peaches are evenly coated.
This mixture will thicken beautifully as it bakes, creating that luscious peach pie filling you’re craving.
3. Assemble the Pie
- Pour the peach filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Dot the top of the filling with small pieces of unsalted butter for added richness.
- Roll out the second crust and place it over the filling. You can:
- Make a classic full top crust with slits for steam to escape.
- Create a lattice crust for a rustic, bakery-style look.
Tip: For a more decorative finish, brush the top crust with an egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar for extra crunch and shine.
4. Bake to Golden Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any bubbling juices.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
Pro Tip: If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil or use a pie shield about halfway through baking.
5. Cool Before Serving
- Once baked, let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours.
This gives the filling time to set, making it easier to slice and ensuring the flavors meld beautifully.
Substitutions & Variations
One of the best things about making a fresh peach pie at home is how easily you can customize it to suit your taste, pantry, or dietary needs. Whether you’re dealing with ingredient shortages or just want to experiment, here are some simple and delicious ways to switch things up.
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Peaches:
If fresh peaches aren’t available, frozen peaches (thawed and drained) work well. You can also use canned peaches, but make sure to drain them thoroughly and reduce the sugar slightly since they’re already sweetened. - Cornstarch:
No cornstarch on hand? All-purpose flour or tapioca starch can act as effective thickeners for your peach pie filling. Just adjust quantities: you’ll typically need about twice as much flour as cornstarch. - Lemon Juice:
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brings a vibrant pop of flavor, though bottled lemon juice can be a convenient substitute when you’re short on time. Alternatively, a splash of orange juice can add a subtle citrus twist. - Pie Crust:
While homemade pie crust gives you that unbeatable flaky texture, a store-bought refrigerated crust is a great time-saver and still delivers a satisfying result.
Flavor Variations:
- Add Warm Spices:
For a cozier, more aromatic filling, sprinkle in a dash of nutmeg, ginger, or even a pinch of clove along with the cinnamon. - Brown Sugar Boost:
Swap out half of the granulated sugar for light brown sugar to add a rich, caramel-style sweetness to your recipe. - Crumble Topping:
Want a fun twist? Skip the top pie crust and sprinkle a buttery streusel topping over the filling for a peach crumble pie. - Add Berries:
Toss in a handful of fresh raspberries or blueberries for a mixed fruit pie that’s colorful and bursting with flavor.
Dietary Adaptations:
- Gluten-Free:
Swap in a gluten-free pie crust and use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as your thickener. - Vegan-Friendly:
Use a vegan pie crust, skip the egg wash, and brush the crust with plant-based milk Use vegan butter alternatives for the filling if desired.
Storage & Reheating
Baked a beautiful fresh peach pie but have leftovers? Lucky you! Proper storage and reheating will help you enjoy that homemade peach pie for days without sacrificing flavor or texture.
How to Store Fresh Peach Pie:
- At Room Temperature (Short-Term):
If you plan to eat the pie within 1 to 2 days, simply cover it loosely with foil or plastic wrap and leave it at room temperature.
Tip: A pie kept at room temperature retains a crispier crust than a refrigerated one. - In the Refrigerator (Longer Storage):
For storage beyond two days, place the pie in the refrigerator. You can keep it fresh for about 4 to 5 days.
Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Can You Freeze Peach Pie?
Absolutely!
Here’s how to freeze your peach pie for later:
- To Freeze a Baked Pie:
Let the pie cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
To serve: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven before serving. - To Freeze an Unbaked Pie:
Assemble the pie, then freeze it uncovered until firm. Once frozen, wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil.
Bake directly from frozen, but be sure to extend the baking time by an additional 15 to 20 minutes.
Best Way to Reheat Peach Pie:
- For Whole Pies:
Slide the pie into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and heat for 15 to 20 minutes, or until it’s nicely warmed all the way through. This helps revive the flaky pie crust. - For Individual Slices:
Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds to enjoy them warm, or pop them in the toaster oven or air fryer for a few minutes if you prefer a crispier crust.
What to Serve with Fresh Peach Pie
A perfectly baked fresh peach pie is a star dessert on its own, but pairing it thoughtfully can elevate the entire experience. Whether you’re serving it at a casual family dinner or a summer gathering, these accompaniments add extra layers of flavor and texture that complement the sweet, juicy peaches beautifully.
Classic Pairings:
- Vanilla Ice Cream:
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting over a warm slice is a timeless favorite. The cold, smooth texture contrasts wonderfully with the flaky crust and sweet filling. - Whipped Cream:
Light, airy whipped cream adds a touch of richness without overpowering the natural peach flavor. For a little twist, try cinnamon or vanilla-flavored whipped cream.
Creative Serving Ideas:
- Cheese Pairings:
Believe it or not, a mild cheese like sharp cheddar or mascarpone can add a savory balance that highlights the pie’s sweetness. Serve thin slices alongside for adventurous guests. - Fresh Mint or Basil:
A small sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs adds a refreshing note and a pop of color to your presentation. - Drizzled Honey or Caramel:
For a decadent touch, drizzle warm honey or caramel sauce over your slice. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and luxury.
Beverage Suggestions:
- Iced Tea or Lemonade:
Light, citrusy beverages like iced tea or fresh lemonade pair perfectly with the fruity brightness of peach pie, especially on warm days. - Sparkling Wine or Rosé:
For a more festive occasion, a chilled glass of sparkling wine or rosé enhances the pie’s fresh, summery vibe.
More Summer Dessert Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of fresh peach pie, you’ll definitely want to explore other summer dessert recipes that celebrate seasonal fruit and simple, satisfying flavors. Here are some of my favorite recipes that pair perfectly with warm weather and make great additions to any dessert table.
1. Classic Strawberry Shortcake
A light and airy cake layered with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. Like peach pie, it’s all about showcasing the natural sweetness of ripe fruit.
2. Blueberry Crisp
This easy-to-make dessert combines juicy blueberries with a buttery oat topping. It’s a fantastic alternative if you want a crumbly texture instead of a pie crust.
3. Watermelon Mint Salad with Honey
For something refreshing and light, this chilled salad combines juicy watermelon cubes with fresh mint and a drizzle of honey—a perfect palate cleanser after a rich dessert.
4. Grilled Peaches with Honey and Yogurt
If you want to keep the peach theme going but try something different, grilled peaches with a drizzle of honey and a spoonful of Greek yogurt create a smoky, creamy treat.
5. Lemon Bars
Zesty and refreshing, lemon bars bring a vibrant twist that cuts through the richness of sweeter pies. Their crisp, buttery base and smooth lemon filling make them a crowd-pleaser.
Why Try These Recipes?
Each of these desserts highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple preparation techniques, just like your fresh peach pie. They bring variety while keeping the focus on natural flavors and approachable baking.
FAQs About Fresh Peach Pie
It’s normal to have a few questions when making a fresh peach pie—after all, it’s a dessert worth perfecting! Below, I’ve gathered some common queries along with clear answers to help you feel confident and ready to bake.
What are fresh peach pies made of?
Fresh peach pies are primarily made with ripe, juicy peaches, sugar, a thickening agent like cornstarch or flour, lemon juice for brightness, and warm spices such as cinnamon. All this is nestled inside a flaky pie crust that holds everything together.
Is fresh peach pie good?
Absolutely! When made with quality, fresh peaches and a well-balanced filling, fresh peach pie is wonderfully sweet, juicy, and aromatic. It’s a classic summer dessert that pleases nearly every palate with its comforting, natural flavors.
What are the three types of fresh peach pie?
The three popular variations include:
- Double-crust peach pie – traditional top and bottom crust.
- Peach crumble pie – topped with a crumbly streusel instead of a crust.
- Lattice peach pie – featuring a decorative woven crust that lets the filling peek through.
What do you need for fresh peach pie?
You’ll need fresh peaches, sugar, a thickener like cornstarch, lemon juice, pie crust (homemade or store-bought), butter for richness, and optional spices like cinnamon. An egg wash helps achieve a golden crust, and coarse sugar can add a nice crunch on top.