A rustic and elegant dessert, this Golden Peach Summer Galette showcases the natural sweetness of ripe peaches in a buttery, flaky crust. It’s the perfect warm-weather treat that’s simple to prepare and beautiful to serve, whether at a picnic or dinner party.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 4–6 tbsp ice water
• 4 large ripe peaches, sliced
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together.
4. Form dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. In another bowl, toss peach slices with brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, vanilla, and lemon juice. Set aside.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll dough into a 12-inch circle.
8. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet.
9. Spoon the peach mixture into the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border.
10. Fold the edges of the dough over the peaches, pleating gently as needed.
11. Brush the crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
12. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
13. Let cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 290
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Sugar: 17g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 150mg

The History of Galettes

Galettes have a rich history rooted in French culinary tradition. Unlike pies, which typically have a top and bottom crust, galettes are free-form tarts with a rustic charm. They originated as simple rural desserts using seasonal fruits and available pantry staples, making them an accessible and versatile treat. The ease of folding the dough around the filling made galettes popular among farmers and bakers who favored minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Why Use Peaches in a Galette

Peaches are a quintessential summer fruit prized for their juicy sweetness and tender flesh. Their natural sugars caramelize beautifully when baked, creating a luscious filling. Using golden peaches, in particular, adds a fragrant floral note and a pleasing balance of tartness and sweetness that enhances the galette’s flavor profile.

Choosing the Right Peaches

Selecting ripe but firm peaches is key. Overripe peaches can become too mushy when baked, resulting in a watery filling. Look for peaches that give slightly under gentle pressure but maintain their shape. Golden varieties tend to be sweeter and less acidic, ideal for this recipe.

The Role of Cornstarch in Fruit Galettes

Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent that helps absorb excess juices released by the peaches during baking. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy and ensures a perfectly set filling. It also contributes to a smooth texture that holds the fruit together nicely.

Importance of Chilling the Dough

Chilling the dough before rolling helps solidify the butter, which creates those coveted flaky layers in the crust. It also relaxes the gluten formed during mixing, making the dough easier to handle and less prone to shrinking during baking.

Benefits of Using Brown Sugar

Brown sugar adds depth and a subtle molasses flavor to the filling that white sugar alone cannot provide. Its moisture content also contributes to a more tender fruit mixture, complementing the peaches’ natural sweetness and enhancing caramelization.

Incorporating Cinnamon and Vanilla

The addition of warm spices like cinnamon and aromatic vanilla elevates the flavor complexity of the galette. These spices complement the peaches’ natural aroma, creating a comforting and inviting dessert experience.

How Lemon Juice Enhances Flavor

Lemon juice brightens the overall flavor by balancing the sweetness with a hint of acidity. It also helps prevent the peaches from browning too quickly, maintaining their vibrant color throughout baking and serving.

Why a Free-Form Crust Is Ideal

A free-form crust is less formal than a pie and allows the fruit to shine without being completely enclosed. This openness lets steam escape, resulting in a perfect balance of a crisp crust and tender filling.

Egg Wash for a Golden Crust

Brushing the crust with beaten egg before baking gives it a beautiful glossy finish and rich golden color. It also helps any sprinkled sugar adhere better, adding a subtle crunch to the outer edge.

Tips for Rolling Out Dough Evenly

Rolling dough evenly to about ⅛-inch thickness ensures a uniform bake. Too thin a crust may burn or break, while too thick may become doughy. Using light flour dusting prevents sticking and tearing, making the shaping process smoother.

Baking Temperature and Timing

Baking at 400°F (200°C) helps the crust develop a crisp, golden texture quickly while allowing the fruit to soften and release juices without overcooking. Baking too long or at lower temperatures can result in a soggy or undercooked galette.

Serving Suggestions

Golden Peach Summer Galette is delightful served warm or at room temperature. Pairing it with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey adds a creamy contrast to the fruity sweetness.

Storage and Shelf Life

Store any leftover galette loosely covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven to refresh the crust before serving again.

Gluten-Free Adaptations

For gluten-sensitive eaters, this galette can be made with gluten-free flour blends. Adjustments may be needed for moisture and binding, but the basic technique remains the same.

Variations with Other Fruits

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted with fruits like berries, plums, apples, or pears. Adjust sugar and thickener quantities according to the juiciness and sweetness of the fruit used.

Pairing with Beverages

The sweet and buttery notes of the galette pair wonderfully with light white wines such as Riesling or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, iced tea or sparkling water with citrus enhances the fruit flavors.

Nutritional Considerations

While delicious, the galette is moderately high in calories and fat due to the butter and sugar content. It is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

The Rustic Appeal in Modern Baking

Rustic desserts like galettes are increasingly popular for their simplicity and visual appeal. They require fewer tools and ingredients than traditional pies, making them approachable for home bakers of all skill levels.

Conclusion

Golden Peach Summer Galette captures the essence of summer with its juicy peaches and flaky crust. Its combination of textures and flavors creates a timeless dessert that is both elegant and comforting. Whether enjoyed as a casual treat or a centerpiece for a gathering, this galette embodies the joy of seasonal baking and the beauty of simple ingredients transformed by thoughtful preparation. Its adaptability and ease make it a perfect recipe to revisit year after year, celebrating the natural sweetness of peaches and the artistry of rustic French pastry.