This Peach Puff Pastry Bake is a deliciously simple dessert that combines the sweetness of fresh peaches with the light, flaky texture of puff pastry. It’s a delightful treat that looks impressive but is easy to prepare, making it perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought, thawed according to package instructions)
- 4-5 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on the sweetness of the peaches)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon honey or apricot jam (for glazing)
- Optional: Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Optional: Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Equipment:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
- Mixing bowl
Instructions:
- Prepare the Oven and Puff Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry on the parchment paper into approximately a 10×14-inch rectangle. If the edges crack, simply press them together with your fingers.
- Prepare the Peach Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced peaches, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Toss gently to coat the peach slices evenly.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Arrange the peach slices in a single layer over the puff pastry, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. Fold the edges of the pastry over the peaches, pleating slightly to hold the fruit inside. This creates a rustic-looking border.
- Apply Egg Wash:
- Brush the exposed puff pastry edges with the beaten egg. This will give the pastry a golden sheen when baked.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Glaze and Serve:
- If desired, brush the warm peaches with a little honey or warm apricot jam to give them a nice shine.
- Let the bake cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and garnishing with fresh mint leaves, if using.
- Serve:
- Serve warm or at room temperature. This dessert pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips:
- Choosing Peaches: Use ripe but firm peaches that hold their shape when baked. If peaches aren’t in season, canned or frozen peach slices (thawed and drained) can also be used.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with other stone fruits like nectarines, plums, or apricots. Adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or cardamom can also enhance the flavor.
- Storage: Best enjoyed the day it’s made as puff pastry loses its crispness over time. However, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a day or two and reheated in the oven to crisp up.
This Peach Puff Pastry Bake is an effortless yet elegant dessert that’s sure to be a hit at any table. Enjoy the delightful combination of juicy peaches and crisp, buttery pastry!
