Butterscotch Peach Pie is a heavenly dessert that combines the luscious sweetness of ripe peaches with the rich and indulgent flavors of butterscotch. This delightful pie captures the essence of summer with its juicy peach filling, enhanced by the caramel-like notes of butterscotch. The combination of fruity and buttery flavors makes Butterscotch Peach Pie a true crowd-pleaser. Join us as we explore the long and detailed history of this delectable pie, along with its ingredients and instructions, and embark on a journey to savor the irresistible flavors of this classic dessert.
The combination of peaches and butterscotch in a pie is a wonderful fusion of flavors that marries the sweetness of fruit with the deep richness of caramel. The origins of Butterscotch Peach Pie can be traced back to the Southern United States, where peaches are abundant and highly prized for their juicy and fragrant flesh.
Butterscotch, a confection made from brown sugar and butter, adds a unique twist to the traditional peach pie. Its smooth and velvety texture, along with its sweet and caramel-like taste, creates a deliciously decadent filling that complements the natural sweetness of the peaches.
Peaches themselves have a rich history in culinary traditions around the world. They have been cultivated for thousands of years and have been enjoyed in various forms, including pies, cobblers, and preserves. In the United States, peaches are celebrated as a symbol of summertime and are particularly beloved in Southern cuisine.
The combination of peaches and butterscotch in a pie is a marriage of flavors that reflects the creativity and innovation of home cooks and bakers. Over time, variations of Butterscotch Peach Pie have emerged, incorporating different spices, nuts, or even a hint of citrus to enhance the flavor profile.
PREP: 30 MIN. + CHILLING
BAKE: 45 MIN. + COOLING
MAKES: 8 SERVINGS
INGREDIENTS
FOR THE PIE CRUST:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
FOR THE BUTTERSCOTCH PEACH FILLING:
- 5-6 large peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup butterscotch chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
FOR THE TOPPING:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
FOR THE PIE CRUST:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gather the dough into a ball, flatten it into a disk shape, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour to allow it to chill and rest.
FOR THE BUTTERSCOTCH PEACH FILLING:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced peaches, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Toss gently until the peaches are coated with the mixture.
- Let the peaches sit for about 15 minutes to release their juices and create a sweet syrup.
- Stir in the butterscotch chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed among the peaches.
- Transfer the peach filling to the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Dot the top of the filling with the cubed butter.
FOR THE TOPPING:
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, softened butter, and chopped pecans (if using).
- Use your fingers or a fork to mix the ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the topping over the peach filling, covering it completely.
BAKING:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake it in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving.
NOTES:
- Butterscotch Peach Pie is a true delight that combines the juicy sweetness of peaches with the rich and indulgent flavors of butterscotch. This classic dessert embodies the essence of summertime and Southern hospitality, offering a burst of fruity and caramel-like goodness in every bite. As you savor a slice of Butterscotch Peach Pie, you can appreciate the creativity and innovation behind its creation, as well as the rich culinary traditions that inspired it. Let the flavors transport you to a world of sweet indulgence and cherished memories. Enjoy the blissful combination of peaches and butterscotch in this delectable pie and savor the joy it brings.