This Easy Peaches and Cream Pie is a sweet and creamy delight! With fresh peaches and a smooth filling, it’s the perfect dessert for summer gatherings or family dinners.
I love how simple it is to whip up. Just mix, pour, and chill! Top it with whipped cream, and you’ve got a slice of happiness on your plate. Who wouldn’t want that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: A pre-made pie crust saves time, but you can also make your own from scratch if you prefer. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free pie crusts at the store.
Peaches: Fresh peaches are the best for flavor. If they’re out of season, canned peaches work just fine—just make sure to drain them well. You can substitute with other fruits like nectarines or berries, too!
Heavy Cream: This gives the pie its lovely creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whipped topping. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream.
Cream Cheese: For a smooth filling, don’t skip on the cream cheese. If you want a lighter variation, consider using Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat.
Lemon Juice: The lemon juice brightens the peach flavor. If you don’t have it on hand, a splash of orange juice can work well too.
How Do I Make Sure the Cream Filling Sets Properly?
Getting the perfect set for your cream filling is key to a delightful pie. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing; this helps create a smooth filling.
- Beat the mixture just enough for it to thicken slightly. Overbeating heavy cream can cause it to turn into butter.
- After pouring the filling over the peaches, refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours. This gives it time to set properly and flavors to meld.
If possible, let it chill overnight for the best results! Reliable chilling is your friend here for that perfect pie slice.
How to Make Easy Peaches and Cream Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pie:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch)
- 3 cups fresh or canned sliced peaches (drained if canned)
For the Cream Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, to enhance peach flavor)
For Topping:
- Whipped cream (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and requires at least 4 hours to chill in the fridge before serving. So, you can whip it up in no time and let it chill while you get other things done!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pie Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take your pre-made pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Bake according to the package instructions, or until it’s nice and golden brown. Once baked, let it cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Mix the Cream Filling:
In a mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is the base for your delicious filling!
3. Add Cream and Flavor:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until everything is well combined and the mixture starts to thicken just a little. It should be light and airy!
4. Prepare the Peaches:
If you’re using fresh peaches, toss them in lemon juice to keep them looking bright and to enhance their flavor. If you’re using canned peaches, make sure they’re well-drained before moving ahead.
5. Assemble the Pie:
Now, layer the sliced peaches evenly over the cooled pie crust. This creates a beautiful base for your creamy filling. Gently pour the cream cheese mixture over the peaches, spreading it out to cover them completely.
6. Chill the Pie:
Cover the pie with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 4 hours, but leaving it overnight ensures a firmer set and even better flavor!
7. Serve with Toppings:
When you’re ready to serve, you can top the pie with whipped cream for that extra touch of sweetness. Slice it up and enjoy your creamy, fruity Easy Peaches and Cream Pie!
Happy baking!
FAQ for Easy Peaches and Cream Pie
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before layering them in the pie. This will help maintain a good texture in the pie.
How Do I Store Leftover Pie?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, it’s best to enjoy it cold, but you can also let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for a softer texture.
Can I Make This Pie Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream and the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. This will give you a deliciously creamy filling without any dairy.
What Serving Suggestions Are there for This Pie?
This pie is delightful on its own, but you can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a fun twist. Garnish with fresh mint for an elegant touch!
