The Best Spiced Peach Pie with Crumb Topping: A Heavenly Homemade Dessert

This Spiced Peach Pie with Crumb Topping is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience that will instantly become a cherished family favorite. Imagine succulent, freshly sliced peaches, harmoniously blended with warm, inviting spices like nutmeg, ginger, and a hint of cinnamon, all nestled in a flaky, golden-brown homemade pie crust. Crowned with a rich, buttery crumble topping, also infused with aromatic cinnamon, this pie is pure perfection. When I say you’ll love this easy peach pie, I truly mean it – it’s an absolute must-try for anyone who appreciates the sweet things in life.

Our family absolutely adores this recipe because it delivers unparalleled satisfaction and a delightfully balanced sweetness. Each bite offers juicy peaches, perfectly coated in a sugary blend of cinnamon and spice, baked to perfection in a tender pie crust and finished with an irresistible spiced crumb topping. Without a doubt, this stands out as the best peach pie recipe I’ve ever tasted. My recent encounter with this peach pie crumble only reaffirmed its status, bringing back memories of its scrumptiously sweet peach filling and buttery texture. It’s a quintessential late summer or early fall dessert, beckoning to be enjoyed with loved ones.

This peach crumble pie is truly the perfect dessert for any gathering, from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday celebrations. In our home, we believe life is simply too short to deny ourselves the pleasure of sweet treats, which is why we always strive to keep delicious desserts on hand. Don’t you agree? And with fresh peaches reaching their peak deliciousness this time of year, there’s no better moment to try your hand at this incredible recipe.

While this spiced peach pie recipe shines brightest with fresh, ripe peaches, don’t let the season deter you. If a craving strikes when peaches aren’t in season, frozen peaches work wonderfully as a substitute. Every summer, I dedicate time to slice and prepare a large batch of peaches, freezing them specifically for cherished recipes like this spiced peach pie. It’s a fantastic way to capture summer’s bounty and enjoy the taste of fresh peaches all year long. You can truly never have too many peaches!

The Allure of Pie: A Culinary Journey

I have a confessed, deep-seated love affair with pie—a sentiment you might have heard me express countless times before. Pinpointing a single favorite is an almost impossible task. Is it the rich, airy delight of Chocolate Meringue Pie? The decadent silkiness of French Silk Pie? Or perhaps the creamy comfort of Banana Cream Pie? All undeniably excellent choices, each holding a special place in my dessert repertoire.

Yet, fruit pies always hold a very special spot at the top of my list. There’s something inherently comforting and utterly delightful about anything baked with the warm, fragrant blend of nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and cinnamon. And as an added bonus, your kitchen will smell absolutely divine as it bakes! This Spiced Peach Pie with Crumb Topping embodies all of these wonderful qualities, making it hands down one of my ultimate favorites. The combination of sweet fruit and warm spices creates a symphony of flavors that truly elevates the simple pie to an extraordinary level.

For an extra touch of indulgence, add a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream as soon as it comes out of the oven, and prepare for pure heaven in every mouthful! The warm pie melting the cold ice cream is a sensation that’s truly irresistible. In fact, this pie is so good, my kids recently engaged in a friendly (but fierce!) battle over the very last piece. That’s how you know it’s a winner!

Just look at these absolutely gorgeous peaches I was fortunate enough to receive! My wonderful friend, Lori, has thriving peach trees in her backyard, and their fruit is simply incredible. Not only are these peaches impressively large, but they are also perfectly sweet and incredibly juicy. I immediately put some to good use by baking this glorious spiced peach pie, and I froze the remainder. This foresight allows me to enjoy another one of these delightful pies for special occasions like Thanksgiving, and to use the frozen peaches for refreshing smoothies throughout the winter months. Freezing them whole or pre-sliced is a fantastic way to preserve their freshness and flavor.

If you find yourself with an abundance of fresh peaches and are looking for a way to preserve them for longer, canning is an excellent option. For those interested in preserving their harvest, here’s a fantastic, no-fail recipe for canning sliced peaches! It’s a rewarding process that ensures you’ll have delicious peaches ready for pies, cobblers, and other treats whenever the mood strikes.

Do You Peel Peaches for Pie? The Great Debate

The question of whether to peel peaches for pie often sparks lively debate among bakers, and ultimately, it boils down to personal preference. Some prefer the smooth texture of peeled peaches, while others appreciate the rustic charm and added fiber that comes with leaving the skins on. Personally, I don’t mind them either way, finding both approaches yield a delicious result.

Typically, I do opt to peel them for a more refined texture in the pie filling. However, if you choose to leave the skins on, don’t fret! As the peaches bake in the oven, their skins soften considerably, becoming tender and easily chewable, blending seamlessly into the filling. If you decide to peel them, a quick and easy method is to blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath. The skins will then slip off effortlessly.

Ingredients for the Perfect Peach Crumble Pie Recipe

Crafting this incredible Spiced Peach Pie begins with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this comforting classic:

Pie Crust: The foundation of any great pie! For this recipe, you have the flexibility to use either a high-quality store-bought pie crust for convenience or a tender, flaky homemade pie crust for that extra touch of love. Whichever you choose, just ensure it’s unbaked and ready for its delicious filling.

Peaches: The star of the show! Any type of peach will shine in this recipe. Freestone peaches are often preferred for their ease of pitting and slicing, but yellow, white, or even the unique Saturn peaches will yield fantastic results. Focus on ripe, fragrant peaches for the best flavor.

Sugar: Regular white granulated sugar is the primary sweetener for both the luscious filling and the delectable crumb topping. It helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the peaches while contributing to the overall deliciousness of the pie. Feel free to adjust slightly to your peach’s sweetness.

Spices: What would a “spiced” peach pie be without its signature flavors? The harmonious blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves comes together to create a peach pie filling that is wonderfully spicy, warm, incredibly aromatic, and perfectly balanced. These spices elevate the peaches from simple fruit to an extraordinary dessert.

Flour: All-purpose flour plays a crucial role as a thickening agent for both the peach filling and the crumb topping. Make sure you have enough on hand! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, feel free to experiment with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend—many work beautifully in pies.

Vanilla: A splash of pure vanilla extract adds a layer of depth and warmth that beautifully complements the peaches and spices. Invest in a good bottle of pure vanilla extract; you’ll be so happy that you did. I often find excellent quality vanilla at Mexican grocery stores.

Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is a key element that brightens the flavor of the peaches and prevents them from oxidizing (turning brown). It provides a subtle tang that balances the sweetness and makes the fruit truly pop.

Butter: Essential for the rich, flaky crust (if homemade) and absolutely critical for the irresistible crumb topping. Use your choice of salted or unsalted butter, but for the crumb topping, always ensure your butter is cold and cut into small pieces. For dairy-free versions, a good quality dairy-free butter alternative will work.

For Serving:

Whipped Cream: Whether you opt for convenient Cool Whip or luxurious homemade whipped cream, it makes an exceptional and light addition to this warm, comforting dessert.

Ice Cream: A classic pairing! Creamy vanilla ice cream is incredibly delicious with this pie. Choose your favorite store-bought brand or elevate it further with homemade vanilla bean ice cream. The contrast of warm pie and cold, melting ice cream is divine.

How to Make Spiced Peach Pie with Homemade Filling

This recipe is surprisingly straightforward, proving that you don’t need to be a seasoned baker to create a show-stopping dessert. Made with a delicious combination of fresh ingredients and warm spices, this easy step-by-step guide will teach you everything you need to know about making the best spiced peach pie from scratch. Inspired by time-honored Southern cookbooks, this pie is as sweet, comforting, and authentic as it gets! Follow these instructions carefully for a perfect result every time.

Step One: Prepare the Crust and Peaches

First, take your unbaked pie crust and carefully line a shallow 9-inch pie plate. Gently press the crust into the plate, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides evenly. Create a decorative edge by crimping or fluting the crust with your fingers or a fork. This not only looks beautiful but also helps to contain the filling.

Next, prepare your peaches. If desired, peel them using the blanching method or a vegetable peeler. Then, slice your peaches into uniform pieces, about ¼ to ½ inch thick. Consistency in size ensures even cooking.

Step Two: Mix the Filling and Initial Bake

In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared peach slices with the sugar, ground nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, flour, vanilla extract, and fresh lemon juice. Toss gently but thoroughly until all the peach slices are evenly coated with the sugar and spice mixture. The flour will act as a thickener, preventing the pie from becoming too runny.

Once combined, carefully spoon the peach filling into the prepared pie crust, mounding it slightly in the center. Ensure the peaches are distributed evenly.

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C). Bake the pie at this initial temperature for twelve minutes. This high heat helps to set the crust and begin the cooking process. After twelve minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue to bake for an additional 30 minutes. This two-stage baking ensures a golden crust and a gently cooked, bubbling filling.

Step Three: Prepare the Crumb Topping

Meanwhile, as the pie is going through its initial bake, prepare the irresistible crumb topping. In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Whisk them together until well blended. Next, add small pads of *cold* butter to the dry mixture. Using your fingertips or a pastry blender, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, similar to the consistency of brown sugar. Ensure there are no large lumps of butter remaining. This cold butter technique is key to achieving a perfectly crisp and buttery topping.

Step Four: Add Topping and Final Bake

After the pie has baked for the initial 42 minutes, carefully remove it from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the prepared crumb topping over the entire surface of the partially baked peach pie.

Return the pie to the oven, increasing the temperature back to 400°F (200°C), and bake for an additional ten minutes, or until the crumb topping is beautifully golden brown and the filling is bubbly and thick. Keep a close eye on it to prevent over-browning. If the crust edges start to brown too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil.

Allow the pie to cool slightly on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting time is crucial for the filling to set properly, preventing a runny slice. Serve warm, ideally with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. Enjoy every delightful bite!

Love it? Pin it! Don’t Forget to Save This Recipe!

Planning to bake this heavenly spiced peach pie later? Make sure you save this incredible recipe! Pin it to your favorite dessert Pinterest board so you can easily find it whenever the irresistible craving for a sweet, comforting pie hits. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re ready to whip up this crowd-pleasing dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions About Peach Pie

How do you Thicken Peach Pie Filling?

For this particular spiced peach pie recipe, all-purpose flour is used as the primary thickener. It creates a wonderfully smooth and cohesive filling. If, after mixing, you find your filling seems a bit too watery, feel free to add another tablespoon or two of flour until you reach the desired consistency. Alternatively, for a slightly different texture, you can use cornstarch or tapioca starch. To use cornstarch, dissolve one tablespoon of cornstarch in two tablespoons of cold water (creating a slurry) for every cup of fruit filling, and then mix it into your peaches. This prevents lumps and ensures even thickening.

Do you Thaw Frozen Peaches Before Making a Pie?

Yes, it is highly recommended to thaw frozen peaches before incorporating them into your pie filling. If you use them while still frozen, they will release a significant amount of excess water during baking, which can lead to a soggy pie crust and a runny filling. To prevent this, place your frozen peaches in a colander and let them thaw completely, draining off any accumulated liquid before mixing them with the other filling ingredients.

Why is my Peach Pie Runny?

A runny peach pie is a common frustration, but it’s usually easily remedied. The most frequent reason for a runny filling is insufficient baking time. The starches (like flour or cornstarch) in your filling need enough heat and time to properly thicken. Make sure your pie bakes long enough for the filling to visibly bubble vigorously in the center. The longer the pie bakes, the more the thickeners will activate and the more moisture will evaporate, resulting in a firm, luscious filling. Another factor could be not draining thawed frozen peaches thoroughly, as mentioned above. Allowing the pie to cool completely before slicing is also crucial, as the filling continues to set as it cools.

Other Delicious Peach and Pie Recipes You Are Sure to Love

If you’ve fallen in love with this spiced peach pie, you’re in for a treat! Explore more of my cherished peach recipes and other delightful pie creations that are perfect for any occasion. These recipes are tried and true, guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests.

Peaches and Cream Tacos
Whiskey Peach Pie
Spiced Peach Pocket Pies
Grandma’s Rhubarb Pie
Classic Pecan Pie
The Easiest Fresh Strawberry Pie (pictured above)
Original Lemon Ice Box Pie Recipe

Now, let’s gather our ingredients and bake this absolutely divine crumb-topped peach pie! Happy baking, and enjoy every sweet moment.

LIKE THIS RECIPE?
Don’t forget to give it a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star rating and
leave a comment below the recipe!

Average Rating: 4.78 from 9 votes

Print Recipe

Spiced Peach Pie with Crumb Topping

This Spice Peach Pie with Crumb Topping, featuring nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and cinnamon, is so full of flavor it will truly become one of your favorites.

Prep Time: 5 mins

Cook Time: 45 mins

Total Time: 50 mins

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Spiced Peach Pie with Crumb Topping

Servings: 1 pie

Calories: 260 kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Ingredients

For the Pie:
4 cups fresh sliced peaches
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon ginger
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/3 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
1 unbaked 9-inch pie shell
For the Topping:
1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup flour
1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cloves

Instructions

Line a shallow pie plate with the unbaked pie crust and form the edge.
In a bowl, combine the peach filling ingredients (peaches, sugar, ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, flour, vanilla, lemon juice) and pour the mixture evenly into the pie crust.
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
While the pie is baking, prepare the crumb topping. In a bowl, combine sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Cut the pads of cold butter into the dry mixture using your fingers or a pastry blender until it resembles coarse crumbs.
After the initial baking, remove the pie from the oven. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the top of the pie. Return to the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for another 10 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving warm, ideally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Nutrition

This recipe was originally posted on July 30th, 2014. It was updated to improve the user experience on September 7, 2021.