Classic Peach Crumble Pie Recipe

If there’s a single dessert that feels like a nostalgic summer hug in every bite, it’s the Classic Peach Crumble Pie. Bursting with sweet, juicy peaches, cozy spices, and topped with a golden, buttery crumble, this pie is truly a celebration of the season’s best fruit. Whether you’re bringing it to a backyard barbecue or serving a slice on a quiet afternoon, the Classic Peach Crumble Pie is a simple joy that never fails to impress and is guaranteed to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and smiles all around.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts of baking a Classic Peach Crumble Pie is how each ingredient weaves together to create layers of flavor and texture. From the tender fruit to the crunchy streusel, every component plays its role in making this pie a standout. Here’s what you’ll need and why every item matters:

• Pie crust: A flaky base that holds the juicy filling and gives every slice its classic pie texture.
• 4 cups sliced peaches: The star of the show! Use ripe, fresh peaches if you can for the juiciest, most flavorful filling.
• ½ cup sugar: Sweetens the fruit and helps bring out those natural peach juices.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and helps balance the sweetness of the peaches.
• 3 tablespoons tapioca: Thickens the filling without making it cloudy or gummy, so every slice holds together beautifully.
• ½ cup brown sugar: Brings a deeper, caramel flavor to the crumble topping.
• ¾ cup flour: The structure for the crumble, creating those delightful golden clusters.
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg: Adds warm, aromatic notes that complement the peaches perfectly.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the crumble with a sweet, fragrant depth.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold: Cold butter is the secret to a crisp and crumbly topping—don’t let it soften!
• ⅛ teaspoon salt: Just a touch brings out the best in all the other flavors.

How to Make Classic Peach Crumble Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Roll your pie dough into a 12-inch circle and carefully fit it into your pie plate. To keep the crust light and crisp, lay a sheet of parchment paper inside, add some pie weights (or even dry beans), and blind bake the crust for about 15 minutes. This step helps prevent a soggy bottom once the juicy filling goes in.

Step 2: Mix the Peach Filling

In a medium bowl, squeeze in the fresh lemon juice. Whisk in the tapioca until smooth—think of this as the glue that keeps your peach filling sliceable. Next, gently fold in your sliced peaches and sugar. Let it sit for a few minutes so those flavors can mingle and the juices start to flow.

Step 3: Fill the Pie Shell

Pour that luscious peach mixture right into your pre-baked pie crust. Make sure the filling is evenly distributed so every bite is packed with fruit and flavor. The aroma at this stage is already enough to make your mouth water!

Step 4: Prepare the Crumble Topping

Cube the cold butter and pop it into a bowl. Add the brown sugar and use a pastry blender (or two forks) to cut the butter and sugar together—your goal is a mixture that looks like small pebbles. Sprinkle in the salt, flour, nutmeg, and vanilla extract, then use your hands to finish blending until the mixture clumps together into big, buttery crumbs.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Using your hands, scatter the crumble topping generously over the peach filling, covering it all the way to the edges. Set the pie plate on a baking sheet for easy transfer (and to catch any delicious drips), then place in your 400°F preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then lower the temperature to 375°F and continue baking for another 25 to 30 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the peach juice is bubbling at the edges. Let it cool before slicing—waiting is the hardest part!

How to Serve Classic Peach Crumble Pie

Garnishes

A Classic Peach Crumble Pie looks stunning straight from the oven, but a little garnish can make each slice feel extra special. A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting over the warm pie is traditional, but a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted almonds can also add an elegant touch. For some color, try adding a few fresh mint leaves.

Side Dishes

Pair your pie with light, summery sides like a berry salad or fresh lemonade for a picnic-perfect dessert spread. If you’re serving after a big meal, a simple espresso or iced tea can complement the sweetness and let the Classic Peach Crumble Pie shine.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pie slightly warm, topped with an individual scoop of homemade honey or cinnamon ice cream. You can also cut smaller squares for a dessert bar at a party, or serve in mason jars for adorable, single-serve treats at a picnic. There are countless ways to make the Classic Peach Crumble Pie the highlight of your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your gathering (if there are any leftovers!), cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors just meld and deepen, making for an unbeatable midnight snack.

Freezing

Classic Peach Crumble Pie freezes surprisingly well. Wrap cooled pie (whole or in slices) in a double layer of plastic and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re craving a taste of summer, just pop out a slice or the whole thing for a homemade treat in a flash.

Reheating

To recapture that just-baked taste, place a slice or two on a baking sheet and warm at 350°F for about 10 minutes. You can also use the microwave for speed (about 30 seconds per slice), but the oven keeps that crumble delightfully crispy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen peaches for Classic Peach Crumble Pie?

Yes! If fresh peaches aren’t in season, frozen sliced peaches work beautifully—just thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make your pie runny.

What can I substitute for tapioca as a thickener?

Cornstarch or flour make excellent stand-ins for tapioca, though the texture might be a bit different. Use the same amount as you would tapioca; just be sure to mix it thoroughly.

Why do you bake the crumble topping separately from the filling?

In this recipe, the topping bakes directly on top of the fruit so it soaks up just enough peach juices to turn golden and crisp without becoming mushy—achieving that perfect crumble.

How do I know when the pie is finished baking?

The crumble should be deep golden brown, and you’ll see bubbling juices around the edges. If your topping browns too quickly, you can loosely cover with foil for the last 10 minutes.

Can I make Classic Peach Crumble Pie gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the regular pie crust and crumble flour for your favorite gluten-free alternatives. The rest of the recipe remains just as delicious and crowd-pleasing.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly nothing like a homemade Classic Peach Crumble Pie to make any occasion brighter. It’s unfussy, joyfully delicious, and destined to become a favorite for friends and family. Don’t wait for a special occasion—grab some peaches and treat yourself to a slice of simple, irresistible comfort pie today!

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