Why You’ll Love Maple Bourbon Brown Butter Peach PieRecipe

This peach pie is more than your average summer dessert. The brown butter adds a deep, nutty richness that enhances the natural sweetness of the peaches. Bourbon and maple syrup bring warmth and complexity, while the toasted pecan streusel adds crunch and a cozy, spiced finish. The homemade crust is buttery and crisp, perfectly complementing the gooey, caramel-like peach filling. Whether you’re baking for a summer gathering or craving a show-stopping pie, this one is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the filling:

  • 3 lbs ripe peaches (about 6 peaches)

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons flour

  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon

  • 1/4 tsp salt

  • Pinch of allspice

  • 1/2 cup sugar

  • 1/4 cup maple syrup

  • 3 tablespoons bourbon

  • 1 tablespoon water

  • 3 tablespoons butter

For the streusel:

  • 1/3 cup pecans

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter

  • 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons flour

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

  • 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • Pinch cinnamon

For the crust:

  • 2 1/2 cups flour

  • 1 tablespoon sugar

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, very cold

To serve:

  • Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Directions

  1. Prep the Crust: In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture forms pea-sized crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing just until the dough holds together. Divide into two disks, wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.

  2. Roll Out Crust: Lightly flour your surface and roll out one dough disk into a 12-inch circle. Fit into a 9-inch pie pan, trim and crimp the edges, then refrigerate while preparing the filling.

  3. Make the Filling: Peel and slice the peaches. In a bowl, toss them with cornstarch, flour, cinnamon, salt, and allspice. In a small saucepan, bring the sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, and water to a boil. Let it bubble for a minute, then remove from heat and stir in the butter. Pour the syrup mixture over the peaches and gently toss to combine.

  4. Prepare Streusel: Toast the pecans in a dry skillet until fragrant, then chop. In a separate pan, melt the butter and cook over medium heat until golden brown and nutty-smelling. Let it cool slightly, then mix with flour, sugars, salt, cinnamon, and the pecans.

  5. Assemble and Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F. Spoon the peach filling into the chilled crust. Top generously with the streusel. Cover the pie loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 350°F, remove foil, and bake for another 30–40 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

  6. Serve: Let the pie cool at room temperature for at least 3 hours to set. Serve with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving

Variations

  • Nut-Free: Omit the pecans or substitute with rolled oats or crushed graham crackers for a nut-free streusel.

  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust and streusel.

  • No Alcohol: Replace the bourbon with apple juice or omit entirely for a kid-friendly version.

  • Different Fruit: Swap peaches for nectarines, plums, or a peach-blueberry combo.

  • Mini Pies: Make mini versions in ramekins or muffin tins for individual servings.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place slices in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual slices for about 30 seconds.
The pie can also be frozen (baked or unbaked) for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in foil and store in an airtight container.

FAQs

What kind of peaches are best for this pie?

Use ripe but firm yellow peaches for the best texture and flavor. Freestone varieties are easier to work with.

Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen peaches before using to avoid a soggy filling.

What does brown butter do in the streusel?

Brown butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that deepens the overall taste of the topping.

Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare and refrigerate the dough up to 3 days ahead or freeze for longer storage.

Is the bourbon flavor strong?

It’s subtle and adds warmth. Most of the alcohol cooks off, leaving behind a complex, caramel-like note.

How do I know when the pie is done?

The filling should be bubbling and the streusel golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should meet little resistance.

Can I make this pie without a bottom crust?

Yes, it will still be delicious as a peach crumble. Just pour the filling into a baking dish and top with streusel.

What’s the best way to peel peaches?

Blanch peaches in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to ice water. The skins should slip right off.

Can I use store-bought crust?

Yes, if you’re short on time. A good-quality store-bought crust works fine.

What ice cream pairs best with this pie?

Vanilla bean is classic, but butter pecan or cinnamon ice cream are great alternatives.

Conclusion

Maple Bourbon Brown Butter Peach Pie is a flavor-packed celebration of summer fruit with a gourmet twist. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to enjoy peak-season peaches, this pie is sure to become a favorite. With a crisp, flaky crust, juicy spiced filling, and nutty streusel topping, every bite is a perfect balance of sweetness, warmth, and crunch.

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