A perfect blend of sweet, fruity flavors and the rich, nutty taste of brown butter, this Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie is a showstopper dessert. The crisp, flaky crust made with brown butter gives an unexpected depth of flavor, while the combination of ripe strawberries and juicy peaches creates a filling that’s both tangy and sweet. This pie is an excellent way to celebrate the bounty of summer fruits and add a gourmet twist to a traditional favorite.

The brown butter in the crust adds a caramelized richness that pairs perfectly with the sweet filling. This pie is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering with friends. The delightful contrast between the buttery, flaky crust and the fruity, juicy filling makes every bite a satisfying experience. Let’s dive into the recipe to create this irresistible dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Combination

The brown butter pie crust adds a nutty, caramelized flavor that takes this pie to the next level, perfectly complementing the sweet and tart fruit filling.

2. Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients

Made with fresh peaches and strawberries, this pie uses the best of summer’s fruit, offering vibrant flavors that are impossible to resist.

3. Flaky, Buttery Crust

The brown butter in the crust creates a wonderfully flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture that contrasts beautifully with the juicy filling.

4. Customizable Sweetness

The filling is sweetened to your liking, and you can even add a sprinkling of Turbinado sugar on top for a crunchy, caramelized finish.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a summer BBQ, holiday dinner, or a casual dessert at home, this pie is sure to impress and delight guests of all ages.

Ingredients

Brown Butter Pie Crust

Cold unsalted butter
All-purpose flour
Fine sea salt
Water
Apple cider or white vinegar
1 whole egg, whisked

Strawberry and Peach Filling

Fresh sliced peaches
Fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
Granulated sugar
Cornstarch
Lemon juice
Lemon zest
Fine sea salt
Turbinado sugar (optional)

Variations

Add Other Berries

You can mix in other fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries along with the strawberries for added flavor complexity.

Use Frozen Fruit

If fresh fruit isn’t available, you can use frozen peaches and strawberries. Be sure to thaw and drain the fruit before using it in the filling to prevent excess moisture.

Add Spices

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling. These spices enhance the sweetness of the fruit and give the pie a cozy, aromatic touch.

Swap for a Different Crust

If you’re short on time or prefer a different type of crust, you can use a store-bought pie crust. However, the brown butter crust truly elevates this pie.

Add Almond Extract

A splash of almond extract in the filling can add an extra depth of flavor, complementing the sweetness of the peaches and strawberries.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Make the Brown Butter Pie Crust

In a medium saucepan, melt the cold unsalted butter over medium heat. Cook the butter until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and sea salt. Add the brown butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Slowly add water and vinegar, stirring until the dough comes together. Add a little more water if needed to achieve the right consistency.
Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, and wrap each in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before rolling out.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches and quartered strawberries. Add the granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, and fine sea salt. Stir gently until the fruit is well coated and the mixture thickens slightly. Set aside.

Step 3: Roll Out the Crust

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to fit your pie dish. Place it into the dish and trim any excess dough around the edges.

Step 4: Fill the Pie

Pour the strawberry and peach filling into the prepared crust. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter (optional). If desired, sprinkle the top of the pie with Turbinado sugar for a crunchy, caramelized finish.

Step 5: Top the Pie

Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal the pie. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Step 6: Bake the Pie

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the pie to cool for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving. This helps the filling set, making it easier to slice.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Chill the Dough: Always chill the dough before rolling it out. This prevents the crust from becoming too soft and ensures a flaky texture.
Don’t Overfill the Pie: If you have extra filling, it’s better to discard it than risk an overflow during baking.
Check for Doneness: If the crust is golden brown but the filling isn’t bubbling, the pie may need a few more minutes in the oven. You can cover the edges with foil if needed to prevent overbrowning.
Let the Pie Cool: Let the pie cool for a bit before cutting into it. This allows the filling to firm up and prevents a soupy mess when slicing.

How to Serve

Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie is best served slightly warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent treat. You can also serve it with a dollop of yogurt or a dusting of powdered sugar for a lighter touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze the pie after baking. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes until warmed through.

Freezing Unbaked Pie

If you want to make this pie ahead of time, you can freeze the unbaked pie. Prepare the pie up to the point of baking, then cover it tightly and freeze. When ready to bake, don’t thaw the pie, just place it directly into a preheated oven and bake as directed, adding extra time if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh fruit?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches and strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain the excess moisture before using them in the filling.

2. How can I tell when the pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the crust is golden brown, and the filling is bubbling through the slits in the top crust. If the filling isn’t bubbling, give it a few more minutes in the oven.

3. Can I make this pie without the brown butter crust?

While the brown butter crust adds a unique flavor, you can use a regular pie crust instead. However, the brown butter version really enhances the pie’s overall taste.

4. Can I add other fruits to the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other fruits like blackberries, raspberries, or even a bit of pineapple to the filling. Just adjust the amount of sugar and cornstarch as needed.

5. How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Pre-bake the crust for about 5-10 minutes before filling it with the fruit mixture. This helps create a barrier that prevents the filling from making the crust soggy.

6. Can I make this pie gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the pie crust is made with the proper gluten-free ingredients.

7. How can I make the crust even flakier?

For an extra flaky crust, make sure the butter stays cold and don’t overwork the dough. You can also add a little bit of ice water if the dough seems too dry.

8. Can I prepare the pie in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the pie ahead of time and store it in the fridge for 1-2 days before baking, or you can freeze it unbaked for later.

9. How do I know when the pie is ready to be served?

Let the pie cool for at least an hour before slicing to allow the filling to set. This will make it easier to cut neat slices.

10. What’s the best way to serve this pie?

This pie is best served with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.

Conclusion

Brown Butter Strawberry Peach Pie is the perfect dessert for any occasion, offering a delightful combination of fresh summer fruit and a rich, nutty brown butter crust. It’s a unique twist on a classic favorite that’s sure to impress your guests. With its flaky crust, juicy filling, and sweet-tart balance, this pie will quickly become a go-to for summer gatherings and special occasions. Enjoy every bite of this beautiful, homemade pie!