Peach Galette

Summer’s bounty is a celebration for the senses, especially when it comes to juicy, sun-ripened fruits. Among these, peaches stand out as a beloved staple — their sweet, fragrant flavor and tender texture make them a perfect choice for desserts. If you want a dessert that’s simple, elegant, and full of seasonal charm, the Peach Galette is your go-to.

Unlike traditional pies that require precision and molds, galettes are free-form tarts with rustic charm. Their imperfect, folded edges and flaky crusts create a beautiful visual contrast to the sweet, juicy fruit inside. This dessert brings out the best of summer peaches without the fuss. Whether you’re a baking newbie or an experienced cook, this recipe guides you through each step with easy-to-follow instructions.

In this detailed guide, you’ll find everything from ingredient selection, dough preparation, filling tips, baking secrets, to creative twists. By the end, you’ll be equipped to bake a Peach Galette that impresses guests, satisfies sweet cravings, and embodies the spirit of summer.

What is a Galette?

Before diving into the recipe, it’s helpful to understand what makes a galette unique. Originating from French cuisine, a galette is a free-form tart or pie that’s baked without a pan or mold. The dough is rolled out flat, the filling placed in the center, and then the edges are folded over to encase the filling partially or fully.

Galettes are prized for their rustic appearance, flaky texture, and versatile fillings — ranging from fruits like peaches and berries to savory ingredients like vegetables and cheese. Their simple assembly and forgiving structure make them less intimidating than pies but just as delicious.

Why Make a Peach Galette?

• Simplicity: No need for pie pans or perfect crusts. You can bake directly on a baking sheet.
• Showcases fresh fruit: Peach flavor shines without heavy creams or custards overpowering it.
• Flexible and forgiving: Easy to customize with spices, additional fruits, or toppings.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a casual picnic, summer barbecue, or a festive dinner.

Ingredients: Choosing the Best Components

For the Crust

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
All-purpose flour	1 1/4 cups	Use unbleached for best results
Salt	1/2 teaspoon	Balances sweetness
Sugar	1/2 teaspoon	Adds slight sweetness
Unsalted butter	1/2 cup (chilled, cubed)	Cold butter = flaky crust
Ice water	3 to 4 tablespoons	Adds moisture without melting butter

Tips:

• Use cold butter straight from the fridge to create pockets of fat that produce flakiness.
• Handle dough minimally to avoid toughness.
• Ice water should be as cold as possible; some bakers even add ice cubes directly.

For the Filling

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Ripe peaches (sliced)	4 to 5	Choose firm but ripe peaches
Granulated sugar	1/4 cup	Adjust based on peach sweetness
Cornstarch	1 tablespoon	Thickens fruit juices
Ground cinnamon	1/2 teaspoon	Adds warmth
Ground nutmeg	1/4 teaspoon	Optional, for spice complexity
Lemon juice	1 teaspoon	Brightens and balances flavors
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon	Enhances sweetness and aroma

Tips:

• Slice peaches evenly for uniform cooking.
• Toss filling gently to avoid bruising the fruit.
• Adjust sugar according to how sweet your peaches are.

For Assembly

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Beaten egg (for wash)	1	Gives crust a golden sheen
Coarse sugar (optional)	1 tablespoon	Adds crunch and sparkle

Equipment Needed

Having the right tools will ease your baking process and improve results:

• Mixing bowls (glass or stainless steel)
• Pastry cutter or fork (for cutting butter into flour)
• Silicone spatula (for gentle folding)
• Rolling pin (for even dough thickness)
• Baking sheet (rimmed preferred)
• Parchment paper (prevents sticking and eases cleanup)
• Pastry brush (for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add chilled butter cubes. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter bits.
3. Drizzle in ice water one tablespoon at a time, stirring lightly with a fork after each addition, until the dough just begins to come together. Be careful not to add too much water.
4. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently press into a disk.
5. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Prepare the Peach Filling

1. Slice peaches thinly, about 1/4 inch thick.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced peaches with sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
3. Toss gently to coat evenly. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to macerate and thicken slightly.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. Remove dough from fridge and let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes for easier rolling.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll dough into a roughly 12-inch circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
3. Transfer dough carefully onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Assemble the Galette

1. Spoon peach filling onto the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border.
2. Fold the edges of the dough over the peaches, pleating as needed to contain the filling while leaving the center exposed.
3. Brush the crust edges with beaten egg to promote golden color.
4. Sprinkle coarse sugar over the crust edges if desired.

Step 5: Bake the Galette

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the galette in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
3. Remove from oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm or at room temperature.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing touch.

Variations and Customizations

• Mixed Fruit Galette: Add berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries to the peach filling.
• Savory Galette: Swap fruit for caramelized onions, goat cheese, and fresh herbs.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust.
• Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter substitutes and use a flax egg wash.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Issue	Cause	Solution
Dough too sticky	Too much water added	Add flour in small amounts and chill
Crust not flaky	Butter melted or overworked dough	Use cold butter, handle dough gently
Filling too watery	Insufficient thickener or too juicy fruit	Add cornstarch or drain excess juice
Crust burning before filling cooks	Oven temperature too high	Lower temperature or cover edges with foil

Health Benefits of Peaches

• High in vitamins A and C, which support skin and immune health.
• Contains dietary fiber that aids digestion.
• Low calorie, nutrient-rich fruit ideal for desserts without guilt.

Storage and Leftovers

• Store leftover galette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to refresh the crust.
• Galette can also be frozen (unbaked or baked) for longer storage; thaw in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw and drain them well to avoid a soggy crust.

How do I know when the galette is done?

The crust should be golden brown and the filling bubbly.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. Dough can be refrigerated up to 2 days or frozen up to 1 month.

What’s the difference between a galette and a pie?

A galette is a free-form tart without a pan, while pies use a defined crust and pan.

Can I use other fruits besides peaches?

Yes! Pears, plums, berries, and apples all work well.

Conclusion

The Peach Galette is a perfect way to celebrate summer’s best fruit in a dessert that’s both impressive and approachable. With a flaky, buttery crust and juicy, spiced peach filling, it hits all the right notes. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this galette offers a simple yet elegant dessert solution.

So, what are you waiting for? Roll out your dough, gather fresh peaches, and bake your way to a delightful summer treat that everyone will love.