Golden Fried Peach Pies

Introduction

Golden Fried Peach Pies are a delicious, crispy treat that combines the sweetness of peaches with a flaky, buttery crust. I recently made this recipe for a family gathering, and it was an instant hit. The pies turned out golden brown and crispy on the outside, while the peach filling inside was warm, sweet, and perfectly spiced. The whole family loved them, and they were gone within minutes! It’s the kind of dessert that brings everyone together, perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special holiday celebration. The best part? These peach pies are so easy to make, and they taste even better when served warm, dusted with a little powdered sugar. If you love peaches and fried pastries, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your home too.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh or canned peach slices (drained if canned)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp water
• 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade)
• Oil for frying
• Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Instructions

Prepare the Peach Filling:

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the peach slices, sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Stir occasionally and cook until the peaches soften and the sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes.
3. Mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry.
4. Stir the slurry into the peach mixture and continue to cook until thickened, about 2 minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the filling cool.

Assemble the Pies:

1. Roll out the pie crusts on a flat surface and use a cookie cutter or small bowl to cut the dough into 4-5 inch circles.
2. Place a spoonful of the peach filling in the center of each dough circle, leaving room around the edges to seal the pie.
3. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
4. Use a fork to crimp the edges and seal the pies.

Fry the Pies:

1. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully fry the pies in batches, 2-3 at a time, for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pies from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain.

Serve:

• Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm for the best taste.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8 pies
• Calories per serving: 250-300 calories (based on ingredients used)

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 15-20 minutes
• Total time: 35-40 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm for the best flavor.
• Dust with powdered sugar for an extra sweet touch.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Perfect for a summer picnic, family gatherings, or a casual dinner.

Additional Tips

1. Use fresh peaches: Fresh peaches will give a better flavor, but canned peaches can work just as well if fresh ones aren’t available.
2. Don’t overfill the pies: Overfilling can cause the pies to burst open during frying.
3. Seal the edges tightly: Ensure that the edges are well-crimped to avoid any filling leakage during frying.
4. Test the oil temperature: Make sure the oil is at 350°F (175°C) before frying the pies to ensure they cook evenly and become golden brown.
5. Serve immediately: These pies are best when served fresh and warm right out of the fryer.

Recipe Variations

• Cinnamon Apple Pies: Replace the peaches with sliced apples for a delicious twist.
• Berry Filling: Use mixed berries like raspberries or blueberries in place of peaches for a refreshing summer treat.
• Sweet Potato Pies: For a fall-inspired version, swap peaches with mashed sweet potatoes and add some cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Savory Fried Pies: For a savory variation, fill the pies with a mixture of cheese, spinach, or chicken.

Serving Suggestions

• With Ice Cream: Serve these pies with a scoop of vanilla, cinnamon, or peach ice cream for an extra treat.
• With Coffee or Tea: These fried pies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them the perfect breakfast or afternoon snack.
• As a Dessert: These pies can be the highlight of any dinner party or holiday meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: If you want to prepare these pies in advance, you can freeze the assembled pies before frying. Lay them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to fry, simply heat the oil and fry the frozen pies as usual.
• Storage: Store any leftover pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, though the crust may lose some crispness.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen peaches? Yes, frozen peaches work well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before use.
2. Can I make these pies ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the pies ahead of time and freeze them. Fry them when you’re ready to serve.
3. What type of oil is best for frying? Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are ideal for frying due to their high smoke points.
4. How can I make these pies less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or use a sugar substitute like Stevia or Monk fruit.
5. Can I bake the pies instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake the pies at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown, but frying gives the best crispy texture.
6. Can I use homemade pie crust instead of store-bought? Yes, homemade pie crust works great for this recipe.
7. Can I add other spices to the peach filling? Yes, you can add nutmeg, ginger, or even a pinch of cloves to enhance the flavor.
8. What if the filling leaks out while frying? Make sure the edges are sealed tightly with a fork and don’t overfill the pies to prevent leakage.
9. Can I make mini pies? Yes, you can use a smaller cutter to make mini peach pies. Adjust the frying time accordingly.
10. What if I don’t have cornstarch? You can use flour or arrowroot powder as a substitute for cornstarch.

Conclusion

Golden Fried Peach Pies are a sweet, crispy, and comforting dessert that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The simple yet flavorful peach filling, combined with the golden, flaky crust, makes for an irresistible treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a special celebration, these pies are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. With easy-to-follow instructions and the ability to customize the filling or crust, you can make these pies your own. Don’t forget to serve them warm with a dusting of powdered sugar for the ultimate dessert experience. Enjoy!

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