Miniature Peach-Filled Pastry Pies
Miniature Peach-Filled Pastry Pies: A Delightful Treat
Miniature peach-filled pastry pies are a delightful and versatile dessert that combines the sweet, juicy flavor of peaches with the buttery, flaky texture of pastry. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant parties, and can be enjoyed year-round thanks to the availability of fresh, canned, or frozen peaches.
### The Allure of Miniature Pies
Miniature pies have gained popularity due to their convenience and portion control. They offer the perfect solution for those who want to indulge in a sweet treat without committing to a full-sized pie. Their small size makes them easy to serve at events, and they can be made in batches to accommodate larger crowds.
### Ingredients and Preparation
To make miniature peach-filled pastry pies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– **Pastry Dough**: You can use store-bought pie crusts for convenience or make your own from scratch using flour, butter, salt, and water.
– **Peaches**: Fresh peaches are ideal, but canned or frozen peaches can be used when fresh ones are not in season. If using canned peaches, ensure they are drained well.
– **Sugar**: Granulated sugar sweetens the filling, but you can adjust the amount based on the sweetness of the peaches.
– **Cornstarch**: This thickens the peach filling, preventing it from becoming too runny.
– **Lemon Juice**: A splash of lemon juice enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
– **Cinnamon and Nutmeg**: These spices add warmth and depth to the filling.
– **Egg Wash**: A mixture of beaten egg and water, brushed over the pastry, gives it a golden, glossy finish.
#### Steps to Prepare:
1. **Prepare the Filling**: Peel and dice the peaches, then mix them with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. **Roll Out the Dough**: Roll out the pastry dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter to cut out circles of dough, ensuring they are large enough to hold the filling.
3. **Assemble the Pies**: Place a spoonful of peach filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and press the edges with a fork to seal.
4. **Bake**: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with egg wash and sprinkle with a little sugar for extra sparkle. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
5. **Cool and Serve**: Allow the pies to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
### Variations and Serving Suggestions
– **Glaze**: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled pies for added sweetness.
– **Ice Cream**: Serve the pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
– **Nuts**: Add chopped pecans or almonds to the filling for a crunchy texture.
– **Herbs**: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like basil or mint to the filling for a unique twist.
Miniature peach-filled pastry pies are a testament to the joy of baking. Their charming appearance and delicious flavor make them a favorite among dessert lovers. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, these pies are a rewarding project that promises to impress and satisfy.
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