Fried Peach Pies

Introduction

Fried Peach Pies have always held a special place in my heart. Growing up, they were a staple at summer gatherings and family reunions. The crispy exterior, warm peach filling, and sweet vanilla glaze create a delightful combination that brings back fond memories of laughter, storytelling, and sunny afternoons. My family absolutely loves these treats, often requesting them as a special dessert for any occasion. There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into that golden, flaky crust, revealing the luscious peach filling inside. These pies are not just desserts; they are a delicious tradition that can be shared and cherished. Let’s dive into making these delightful Fried Peach Pies!

Ingredients

Pie Crust:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup cold unsalted butter
• ¼ cup butter-flavored shortening
• ½ cup cold water

Peach Filling:

• 16 oz frozen sliced peaches
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2-3 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• 1-2 teaspoons cornstarch (if needed)

Vanilla Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

Let’s Make the Pie Crust:

1. In a large bowl, sift together the flour and salt.
2. Cut in the cold butter and butter-flavored shortening until the mixture resembles large crumbs.
3. Add the cold water and stir until a dough begins to form.
4. Turn the dough out onto a work surface and knead until you have a soft, uniform ball of dough (it may be very crumbly at first).
5. Cut the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each into a ball.
6. Place the dough balls on a baking sheet and press them into discs. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, about 30 minutes or until ready to use.

Let’s Make the Peach Filling:

1. In a large saucepan, combine the peaches, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Toss to coat the peaches in sugar.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat until the peaches are tender enough to mash.
3. Mash the peaches, leaving some chunks for texture.
4. Continue simmering until thickened and the juices have dissolved.
5. Stir in the butter and lemon juice. If needed, add cornstarch to thicken further.
6. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely. Set aside.

Make the Glaze:

1. In a large bowl, mix the powdered sugar and milk until silky. You may need to add more milk for the desired consistency.
2. Stir in a pinch of salt and the vanilla extract. Set aside until ready to use.

Let’s Make and Fry the Pies:

1. To assemble the pies, roll a dough ball out to about 5-6 inches wide.
2. Place 2 tablespoons of peach filling in the center of the dough.
3. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges together firmly.
4. Use a pizza cutter to trim the edges for a neater look.
5. Crimp the edges with a fork to further seal the pie. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
6. Heat oil in a deep fryer or deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
7. Once the oil is hot, carefully place 2-3 pies in the oil and fry until lightly golden, about 3-4 minutes. Flip midway if needed.
8. Place fried pies on a cooling rack.
9. When the pies are done frying, brush one side with the glaze. Once the glaze hardens, brush them again.
10. Serve once the final glaze has set.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8 pies
• Calories: Approximately 280 kcal per pie
• Total Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Dietary Fiber: 1 g
• Sugars: 10 g
• Protein: 3 g

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm or at room temperature.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Drizzle with extra glaze for added sweetness.
• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

Additional Tips

1. Fresh Peaches: If in season, feel free to use fresh peaches instead of frozen for an even more vibrant flavor.
2. Adjust Sweetness: Taste the peach filling and adjust the sugar according to your preference.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
4. Avoid Overfilling: Be cautious not to overfill the pies to prevent leakage during frying.
5. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.

Recipe Variations

• Spiced Peach Pies: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the peach filling for an extra layer of flavor.
• Other Fruits: Experiment with other fruits like blueberries, cherries, or apples for different filling options.
• Savory Pies: For a savory twist, consider adding cooked bacon or ham to the filling.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad for a balanced dessert.
• Add a dollop of Greek yogurt on top for a creamy texture.
• Pair with a glass of sweet iced tea or lemonade for a summer treat.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Uncooked pies can be frozen before frying. Simply place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Cooked pies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven for the best texture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh peaches instead of frozen?

• Yes, fresh peaches work beautifully in this recipe!

1. How do I know when the oil is hot enough?

• You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into it; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.

1. What can I do if my filling is too runny?

• You can stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch to thicken the filling.

1. Can I bake these pies instead of frying them?

• Yes, brush with butter and bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until golden.

1. What if I don’t have shortening?

• You can substitute with more butter; however, the texture may vary slightly.

1. How can I make the glaze thinner?

• Add a little more milk until the desired consistency is reached.

1. Can I prepare the filling in advance?

• Yes, the peach filling can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.

1. How can I ensure my crust is flaky?

• Keep all ingredients cold, and avoid overworking the dough.

1. Can I use this recipe for other pie types?

• Absolutely! The crust and filling can be adapted for many different types of pies.

1. What’s the best way to reheat leftover fried pies?
   • Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for the best texture.

Conclusion

Fried Peach Pies are not just a delightful dessert; they are a heartwarming treat that brings back memories of family gatherings and joyful moments. The combination of flaky crust, sweet peach filling, and a glossy glaze makes them irresistible. Whether you serve them at a summer picnic or enjoy them as a comforting dessert at home, these pies are sure to please everyone. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and create some delicious memories with Fried Peach Pies!

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