Golden Fried Peach Pies

There's something magical about the smell of peaches cooking that always takes me back to my grandmother's kitchen in the summertime. I remember her bustling about, preparing dishes that filled the house with warmth and sweetness. One of my favorite treats was her Golden Fried Peach Pies. These pies weren't just desserts; they were little pockets of joy, bursting with juicy peaches and spices that made every bite feel like a hug. Now, whenever I make them, it feels like I'm sharing a piece of her love with my family.

Golden Fried Peach Pies are perfect for warm evenings when you want to celebrate the season's bounty. They're simple enough to whip up for a family gathering, yet special enough to impress friends. Whether you use fresh peaches or canned ones, these pies deliver nostalgia and comfort with every delectable bite. So, let's roll up our sleeves and dive into this cherished recipe that brightens every occasion!

Why You'll Love "Golden Fried Peach Pies"

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Great for using up fresh peaches in the summer or canned peaches year-round.
• Family-friendly dessert that kids love to help make and eat!
• Minimal ingredients mean you likely already have everything you need at home.
• Freezer-friendly, so you can make a batch and save some for later indulgence.
• Each pie is golden and crispy, delivering a delightful crunch with every bite.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Filling

• 2 cups diced fresh or canned peaches (drained if using canned)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional for a warm spice flavor)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon water for thickening)

For the Dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed for a flaky dough)
• ½ cup buttermilk (adds tanginess; see notes for substitutes)

For Frying and Topping

• Vegetable oil (for frying; I recommend canola or peanut oil for high smoke points)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting; adds a sweet touch to the finished pies)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced peaches, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), lemon juice, and the cornstarch mixture. Stir well until everything is fully blended. This is where the magic begins, and the aroma will start to fill your kitchen!

Make the Dough

1. In another mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. This is the base for our delicious dough.
2. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Don't worry if it feels a little messy-it's all part of the fun!
3. Pour in the buttermilk and stir until a dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but manageable. If it's too wet, sprinkle a little more flour as needed. Trust your instincts here!

Assemble the Pies

1. Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to about ⅛ inch thick. Use a round cutter (or a glass) to cut circles of dough about 4 to 5 inches in diameter.
2. Take a spoonful of filling and place it on one half of each dough circle, leaving a little space around the edges. Don't overfill them; we want them to close up nicely!
3. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for that charming touch, or just pinch them closed. It's all good!

Fry the Pies

1. In a frying pan, heat enough vegetable oil over medium heat to cover the bottom of the pan. You want it hot but not smoking-test it by dropping in a tiny piece of dough; if it sizzles, you're ready!
2. Carefully add the pies to the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry them until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them; you want that perfect, crispy exterior!
3. Once fried, remove the pies with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels. This step is crucial to keep them from getting greasy. While they're still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar. Go ahead, make it snow!

Variations

• Try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the peach filling for an extra layer of flavor.
• Swap out the peaches for fresh apples or berries to create different fruit pies.
• Make a gluten-free version by using a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• For a lighter option, bake the pies in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until golden instead of frying.
• Experiment with spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique twist on the classic flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

These Golden Fried Peach Pies are best served warm, fresh from the pan. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. They also make a delightful addition to a picnic or summer gathering! For more dessert inspiration, check out our Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars.

Storage

Store any leftover pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then in a freezer bag, for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispy texture!

Helpful Notes

• For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the peach filling.
• Substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or yogurt for a similar tang.
• Feel free to use frozen peaches; just thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
• These pies can be made egg-free, making them suitable for various dietary needs.
• Add chopped nuts to the filling for a delightful crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Golden Fried Peach Pies?

Yes, you can freeze Golden Fried Peach Pies! To do this, let the pies cool completely, then wrap each one in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven or air fryer to regain that crispy texture.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don't have buttermilk on hand, no worries! You can easily make a substitute by mixing ½ cup of regular milk with ½ tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. Alternatively, you can use plain yogurt thinned with a little milk to achieve a similar consistency. For more baking tips, explore our blog.

Can I use frozen peaches?

Absolutely! Frozen peaches work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them first and drain any excess water before using them in your filling. This will help keep your pies from becoming too soggy while frying. Enjoy the convenience of year-round peach goodness!

Final Thoughts

I hope you're as excited to make these Golden Fried Peach Pies as I am! There's something so satisfying about biting into that crispy shell, revealing the sweet, spiced peach filling inside. It's a treat that brings back memories and creates new ones around the table. Don't be afraid to let your creativity shine while making them, and remember that cooking is all about joy and love. So gather your family, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process. I can't wait to hear how your pies turn out. Happy cooking! For more delicious pie recipes, consider trying our Easy Pecan Pie.