If you have a soft spot for Southern comfort food with a crispy, sweet twist, this Golden Fried Peach Pies Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. Imagine juicy peaches enveloped in flaky, golden crusts, fried to perfection until they boast a crunchy exterior and soft, luscious filling inside. It’s the kind of dessert that instantly transports you to warm afternoons on a porch swing, just pure joy in every bite. Whether you use fresh or canned peaches, the magic stays the same: sweet, slightly tangy, and irresistibly delightful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Golden Fried Peach Pies Recipe is wonderfully simple thanks to a handful of pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a key role in building that classic southern flavor, from the tangy peaches to the buttery crust and the warm cinnamon spice.
- Fresh or canned peaches: The heart of the pie—choose fresh for the best flavor or canned for convenience.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness while balancing the peach’s natural tartness.
- Brown sugar: Brings a subtle molasses flavor that deepens the filling’s richness.
- Cornstarch: A thickening hero for that perfect, jammy filling consistency.
- Ground cinnamon: Provides warm spice notes that pair beautifully with peaches.
- Lemon juice: A dash of brightness to keep the filling fresh and vibrant.
- Refrigerated pie crusts: The flaky, buttery shell that crisps up golden during frying.
- Vegetable oil: The frying medium that ensures a crispy, golden crust.
- Powdered sugar (optional): A light dusting makes for a pretty, sweet finish.
How to Make Golden Fried Peach Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peach Filling
Start by combining your diced peaches with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and a touch of lemon juice in a small saucepan. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring regularly, until it thickens and the peaches soften—about 5 to 7 minutes. This step transforms those humble peaches into a luscious, jam-like filling that will be the star inside your pies. Let the mixture cool just enough so it’s workable but still warm and inviting.
Step 2: Assemble the Pies
Unroll your pie crusts onto a floured surface and cut out circles roughly 4 to 5 inches wide. Place a tablespoon of the peach filling in the center of each circle. Then fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal all those sweet juices inside. This sealing is crucial; it keeps the filling from escaping while frying and creates those classic hand-held pies that are perfect for sharing.
Step 3: Fry the Pies to Golden Perfection
Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully add the pies in batches, frying 2 to 3 at a time. Each side should cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until they are irresistibly golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to paper towels to drain any excess oil. This frying process gives these pies their signature crunch and warmth that’s just impossible to beat.
How to Serve Golden Fried Peach Pies Recipe
Garnishes
These pies are beautiful on their own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar adds that classic Southern dessert charm and a hint of extra sweetness. For something more decadent, try drizzling with honey or adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The contrast between cold ice cream and hot pies is downright dreamy.
Side Dishes
Serve your Golden Fried Peach Pies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a tall glass of iced tea to complete the Southern experience. If you’re feeling festive, a dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of clotted cream pairs wonderfully without overpowering that fresh peach flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
These mini pies are naturally charming and perfect for gathering. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board with fresh peach slices, mint leaves, and small bowls of whipped cream or caramel sauce for dipping. Alternatively, try serving them in individual dessert bowls with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of berry coulis to elevate this humble treat into a conversation piece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Golden Fried Peach Pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, though they’re best enjoyed fresh. If you plan to keep them longer, refrigeration is an option but expect the crust to lose some of its crispness.
Freezing
You can freeze these pies before frying for up to a month. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready, fry directly from frozen, adding a couple extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they cook through.
Reheating
To bring back that golden crisp, reheating in an oven or toaster oven is your best bet. Heat at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 8 to 10 minutes, and your pies will regain their delightful crunch. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that irresistible crisp texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh or canned?
Yes, frozen peaches can work perfectly. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy filling before cooking.
Is it necessary to use refrigerated pie crusts, or can I make my own dough?
While refrigerated pie crusts are super convenient and yield great results, homemade pie dough can add a personal touch. Just aim for a flaky, buttery dough for the best texture.
What oil is best for frying these pies?
Vegetable oil is ideal because of its neutral flavor and high smoke point. You can also use canola or peanut oil if you prefer.
Can I bake these pies instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking is a slightly healthier option; bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes or until the crust turns golden.
How long can I keep the pies once fried?
For optimal taste and texture, eat the pies within 1-2 days. They tend to be best warm and crisp, so reheating properly makes a big difference.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Golden Fried Peach Pies Recipe is a little bite of sunshine wrapped in crispy, flaky goodness. It’s a recipe that’s easy to love and even easier to share. Whether you’re new to frying desserts or a seasoned hand pie enthusiast, these pies bring warmth and smiles to the table. So roll up your sleeves, grab some peaches, and dive into this classic Southern treat—you won’t regret it!
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Golden Fried Peach Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 10 mini pies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Golden Fried Peach Pies are a delightful Southern American dessert featuring a sweet peach filling encased in a crispy, golden-fried pie crust. These hand pies are perfect for warm, fruit-filled indulgence, combining tender peach goodness with a perfectly fried, flaky exterior. They are easy to make and best enjoyed fresh, served warm and optionally dusted with powdered sugar.
Ingredients
Peach Filling
- 2 cups fresh peaches (peeled and diced) or 1 can (15 oz) sliced peaches (drained and chopped)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Pie Crust and Frying
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2-count)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Peach Filling: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the peaches, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook while stirring for 5–7 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened and the peaches are tender. Remove from heat and let cool slightly to allow the filling to set.
- Shape the Pies: Unroll the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Using a 4–5 inch cutter, cut out circular shapes. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the peach filling into the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together firmly with a fork to seal the pies and prevent filling leakage during frying.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet, pour vegetable oil to a depth of about 1 inch and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain proper frying temperature for crispiness without absorbing excess oil.
- Fry the Pies: Fry the pies in batches of 2–3 at a time, cooking for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the oil temperature and even cooking.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried pies using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- You can substitute peaches with other fruits like apples or cherries following the same preparation method.
- These pies are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in an oven to help maintain their crispiness.
- Use a thermometer to keep oil temperature steady to avoid greasy pies.
- Ensure the pies are sealed tightly to prevent filling from leaking during frying.
