This Peaches and Cream Pretzel Pie brings together sweet peaches and creamy filling on a crunchy pretzel crust. It’s a fun dessert that feels like summer on a plate!
The salty pretzel crust is the real star here; it pairs perfectly with the sweet filling! I love serving this after dinner, and it always gets smiles from family and friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pretzel crumbs: The crust’s salty crunch comes from pretzels. If you’re in a pinch, crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafer crumbs can work too, though flavor will vary. Use crushed saltines for a similar salty touch!
Cream cheese: Soften this ingredient by letting it sit at room temperature before using. For a lighter touch, Neufchâtel cheese is a great substitute, offering a similar taste with less fat. You could also try Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Heavy whipping cream: This is key for the filling’s lightness. If you need a lighter option, you could use whipped topping. Alternatively, coconut cream can work well and add a unique flavor if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Peaches: Fresh is best! If they’re not in season, canned peaches (drained) can substitute. You could also use nectarines or even berries for different flavors. Just make sure to adjust sugar levels if they are sweeter.
How Do I Ensure My Whipped Cream is Perfectly Fluffy?
Whipping cream can sometimes be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll achieve the perfect fluffy texture. Start with a cold bowl and beaters for better volume. Pour your cold heavy cream into the bowl and beat on medium speed until soft peaks form.
- Increase speed to high and continue beating until stiff peaks form. This usually takes only a few minutes.
- Avoid overbeating to prevent it from turning grainy or butter-like. Stop as soon as stiff peaks hold their shape!
- Gently fold the whipped cream into your cream cheese mixture using a spatula. This keeps that lovely airy texture intact.
How to Make Peaches And Cream Pretzel Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 2 cups pretzel crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For The Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
For The Topping:
- 2 cups fresh peaches, sliced
- 1/2 cup raspberries (optional)
- 1/4 cup peach preserves (optional for glaze)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 10 minutes to bake and 4 hours to chill in the fridge. You’ll spend some enjoyable time mixing and layering, then patiently wait for the pie to set up and cool down. The wait will be worth it for this delicious dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the pretzel crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. Now, take this mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish to form your crust. Bake it in the oven for 10 minutes, then take it out and let it cool completely before adding the filling.
2. Making the Filling:
While your crust is cooling, let’s whip up the filling! In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s nice and smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. This means when you lift the beaters out, the cream holds its shape. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until it’s fully mixed together and fluffy.
3. Assembling the Pie:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Spread the creamy filling over your cooled pretzel crust, smoothing it out with a spatula for an even layer. Cover the pie and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until it’s set nicely. This is a great time to relax or do some other tasks while waiting!
4. Adding the Topping:
Once your pie is set, it’s time to make it look pretty and tasty! Carefully arrange the sliced peaches and optional raspberries on top of the pie. If you like, you can warm the peach preserves in the microwave until they are melted, and then drizzle them over the fruit to add a lovely shine and sweetness.
5. Garnish and Serve:
For a final touch, add fresh mint leaves as a garnish if you’d like. Now, slice up your chilled Peaches And Cream Pretzel Pie and enjoy this refreshing dessert with family or friends. It’s sweet, tangy, and oh-so-delicious!
Can I Use Different Fruit for the Topping?
Absolutely! While peaches and raspberries are delicious, you can substitute them with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even mixed berries. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness to taste, as some fruits can be tarter than others!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the freshness of the topping, keep the fruit separate until you’re ready to serve again. If refrigerated properly, the crust will stay crunchy!
Can I Make This Pie Without Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can! Substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone or Greek yogurt for a lighter twist, although it may alter the flavor slightly. Adjust the sweetness by adding a bit more powdered sugar if needed!
Is It Possible to Make This Pie Gluten-Free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free pretzels to make the crust. Just make sure to check the labels, as some brands may still contain gluten. The rest of the ingredients should be gluten-free as well, but always double-check for any specific dietary needs.
