This Peaches And Cream Pretzel Pie is a fun mix of salty and sweet! With a crunchy pretzel crust, creamy filling, and fresh peaches on top, it’s a treat everyone will love.
Honestly, who wouldn’t want to munch on a dessert that tastes like summer? I can never resist sneaking in extra peach slices—can you blame me? 🍑
Making this pie is a piece of cake! Just mix, bake, and chill. I love serving it cold on hot days; it’s like a refreshing hug in a slice!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pretzel Crumbs: These are essential for that salty-sweet crust. If you’re in a pinch, you can use graham cracker crumbs or even crushed cookies if you want a different flavor. I like using pretzels for their unique taste!
Cream Cheese: It gives the filling a rich texture. If you’re looking for lower fat options, try Neufchâtel cheese. Dairy-free cream cheese is a good substitute for a vegan pie.
Heavy Cream: Whipping cream is key for fluffiness. If you need a lighter version, use half-and-half, but it won’t be as airy. I’ve tried using coconut cream for a twist, and it adds a lovely flavor!
Fresh Peaches: Fresh peaches bring sweetness. If they’re not in season, canned peaches in juice work well, just drain them well. I often mix in a few sliced strawberries for extra color and flavor!
How Can You Make the Perfect Pretzel Crust?
Creating a good pretzel crust is all about getting the right texture and flavor balance. Here’s what you need to do:
- Combine pretzel crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until evenly mixed.
- Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the pie dish; this helps it hold together when slicing.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Let it cool completely before adding the filling. This ensures a crisp crust!
How to Make Peaches And Cream Pretzel Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 2 cups pretzel crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For The Filling:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
For The Topping:
- 2 cups fresh peaches, sliced
- ½ cup raspberries (optional for garnish)
- Mint leaves (for garnish)
- ¼ cup peach preserves (optional, for glaze)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pie will take about 30 minutes of active preparation time, and then you’ll need to let it chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours. So, in total, you should plan for about 2.5 hours before serving. But trust me, the wait will be well worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium mixing bowl, combine the pretzel crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix everything together until it’s well blended. Now, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish to form an even crust. Bake it in the oven for 10 minutes, then take it out and let it cool completely.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
While your crust is cooling, let’s make the filling! In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Keep mixing until it’s smooth and creamy. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Then, gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until everything is fully combined and fluffy.
3. Assemble the Pie:
Now, pour the creamy filling into your cooled pretzel crust and spread it out evenly. Pop the pie into the fridge and let it chill for at least 2 hours, or until it’s nice and set. Patience is key here!
4. Add the Toppings:
After your pie has chilled, arrange the sliced peaches over the top. If you like, you can add some fresh raspberries for a pop of color. For an extra touch of sweetness, warm up the peach preserves in a small saucepan and then drizzle it over the fruit topping. Lastly, garnish with mint leaves to make it look super inviting!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice up your delicious Peaches And Cream Pretzel Pie, serve it up, and enjoy every bite! It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion!
Can I Use Other Types of Nuts or Cookies for the Crust?
Absolutely! If you don’t have pretzel crumbs handy, you can substitute with crushed graham crackers, vanilla wafer cookies, or even finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans. Just keep the ratio the same and adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of your alternative choice.
Can I Make This Pie in Advance?
Yes, this pie is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare the crust and filling the day before and assemble it. Just keep the topped pie in the refrigerator and add the fresh peaches and preserves right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you have added fresh peaches, they may soften, so it’s best to eat any leftovers sooner rather than later!
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the pie. Keep in mind that frozen peaches may be a bit softer, so for the best texture, fresh is preferred if available.
