What To Know
- For a crispier crust, preheat the baking sheet before placing the kuchen on it.
- For a tart kuchen, add a squeeze of lemon juice to the filling.
- The leftover kuchen can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Indulge in the sweet and juicy flavors of summer with our delectable peach kuchen recipe. This classic German pastry combines a flaky crust with a generous filling of ripe, aromatic peaches. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, afternoon tea, or simply craving a comforting treat, this peach kuchen recipe will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks / 227g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water
For the Filling:
- 6 ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground nutmeg
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) milk
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) vanilla extract
Instructions
Making the Crust:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add the butter pieces and use your fingers to work them into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the ice water 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
4. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preparing the Filling:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Stir well to coat the peaches evenly.
Assembling the Kuchen:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch (30cm) circle.
3. Transfer the dough to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
4. Spread the peach filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5cm) border around the edges.
5. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, crimping them to seal.
Baking the Kuchen:
1. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
2. Let the kuchen cool slightly before glazing.
Making the Glaze:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the warm kuchen.
Tips
- For a crispier crust, preheat the baking sheet before placing the kuchen on it.
- To prevent the filling from overflowing, use a baking sheet with high sides.
- If you don’t have a rolling pin, you can use two sheets of parchment paper and roll out the dough between them.
- For a more intense peach flavor, use fresh, ripe peaches that are in season.
- Serve the kuchen warm with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream.
Variations
- For a sweeter kuchen, add additional sugar to the filling.
- For a tart kuchen, add a squeeze of lemon juice to the filling.
- For a nutty flavor, sprinkle chopped walnuts or almonds over the filling before baking.
- For a fruity twist, add other fruits to the filling, such as blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries.
Benefits of Peaches
Peaches are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are a good source of:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin A
- Fiber
- Potassium
- Antioxidants
Including peaches in your diet can help boost your immune system, improve your vision, and reduce your risk of chronic diseases.
The Bottom Line
Indulge in the sweet and juicy flavors of summer with our delectable peach kuchen recipe. This classic German pastry is easy to make and will impress your friends and family alike. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, afternoon tea, or simply craving a comforting treat, this peach kuchen recipe will surely satisfy your taste buds.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen peaches, but they may need to be thawed and drained before using.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the kuchen up to 2 days ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
Q: How do I store the leftover kuchen?
A: The leftover kuchen can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
