Grilled Peach Pie Perfection: Your Ultimate Brown Butter Bourbon Maple Recipe for the Big Green Egg

The Big Green Egg (BGE) transcends the definition of a mere grill; it’s a sophisticated culinary tool, an outdoor oven, and a smoker all rolled into one. This summer, unlock its full potential to craft an extraordinary dessert that will captivate every guest at your next BBQ: our delectable Brown Butter Bourbon Maple Grilled Peach Pie. This isn’t just any pie; it’s a harmonious blend of sweet, smoky, and rich flavors, poised to become the undisputed star of your outdoor feast. Imagine the succulent sweetness of perfectly ripe peaches, infused with the warming notes of bourbon and maple, all caramelized within a flaky crust and crowned with a crispy, nutty streusel – all kissed by the subtle smoke of your BGE.

The true genius of this recipe lies in its remarkable versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re planning a grand backyard barbecue or an intimate family dinner, you can assemble this pie the day before or just a few hours ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your company without last-minute kitchen stress. In less than an hour of active preparation and cooking time on your BGE, you’ll create a magnificent dessert that boasts a vibrant, fruity filling. Each peach slice absorbs the incredible smoky essence from the grill, creating a depth of flavor impossible to achieve in a conventional oven. This unique smoky character is elegantly balanced by a rich, deeply flavorful bourbon-infused caramel sauce, which enrobes the peaches. The entire masterpiece is then crowned with a buttery, crispy brown butter streusel, adding an irresistible textural contrast that completes this perfect summer treat.

To truly elevate this dessert to an iconic summer experience, pair it with your favorite creamy accompaniment. A generous scoop of velvety vanilla bean ice cream, melting slowly over the warm, grilled pie, creates a classic “à la mode” delight. Alternatively, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, perhaps lightly sweetened and flavored with a hint of vanilla or a dash of bourbon, offers a lighter, airy counterpoint to the pie’s richness. Whichever you choose, this Brown Butter Bourbon Maple Grilled Peach Pie promises to be the culinary highlight, the pièce de résistance, that makes your summer gatherings unforgettable. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s an experience, a celebration of summer flavors and the art of outdoor cooking with the Big Green Egg.

So, get ready to fire up your Big Green Egg, embrace the vibrant sizzle of summer, and let the enticing aromas of this pie fill the air. Our Brown Butter Bourbon Maple Grilled Peach Pie is designed not just to satisfy, but to impress. With its complex yet comforting flavors, celebrating the very best of the season, it’s the sweet conclusion that everyone will crave, creating lasting memories around your grill.

Why This Grilled Peach Pie Recipe is a Must-Try:

• Beat the Heat with Outdoor Cooking: Say goodbye to heating up your kitchen on sweltering summer days. This ingenious recipe allows you to enjoy the comforting flavors of a classic peach pie without turning on your oven. By utilizing your Big Green Egg, you keep the heat outdoors, making it ideal for scorching afternoons when you crave a homemade dessert but want to stay cool and comfortable. It transforms pie baking into a fun, outdoor activity, embracing the spirit of summer.
• Irresistible Peach & Bourbon-Maple Infusion: The star of this pie is undoubtedly the juicy, ripe peaches. Hand-picked at their peak, they offer a natural sweetness and delicate tanginess that perfectly embodies summer. These vibrant peaches are then lovingly bathed in a luscious bourbon-infused caramel sauce, which is further enriched with the deep, earthy sweetness of maple syrup. This creates a mouthwatering filling that strikes an exquisite balance between fruit, spice, and the complex notes of the bourbon and maple, delivering an unforgettable flavor profile.
• Streusel Perfection with a Brown Butter Twist: Every great pie needs a fantastic topping, and this recipe delivers. A rich, buttery streusel topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, tender peach filling. What sets it apart is the inclusion of brown butter, which imparts a nutty, toasted depth that elevates the entire dessert. A hint of cinnamon in the streusel complements the peaches and caramel, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures. It’s the ultimate finishing touch, ensuring every bite is a perfect blend of crispiness and tender fruit.
• Versatile, Crowd-Pleasing, and Uniquely Smoky: Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard barbecue, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a weeknight treat, this pie is designed to impress all palates. Its balanced sweetness and unique smoky undertones from the Big Green Egg make it a conversation starter. It’s a versatile dessert suitable for various settings, always leaving smiles and requests for the recipe in its wake. Plus, the novelty of a “grilled” pie adds an extra layer of culinary adventure that your guests will surely appreciate.

Recipe Overview: Grilled Peach Pie on the BGE

This recipe is designed for ease and maximum flavor, making the most of your Big Green Egg. With a moderate prep time and a hands-off cook time, you’ll have a show-stopping dessert ready to impress.

Yields: 8 generous servings

Prep Time: Approximately 30 minutes (active preparation)

Cook Time: Approximately 55 minutes (on the Big Green Egg)

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Crafting the perfect grilled peach pie starts with selecting the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. From the flaky crust to the vibrant peach filling and the crunchy streusel, each component plays a vital role in achieving this dessert’s exceptional flavor and texture. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need:

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 pie crust: You can choose to make a homemade pie crust for an extra touch of culinary pride, or opt for a high-quality store-bought crust for convenience. Ensure it’s a standard 9-inch size.

For the Irresistible Filling:

• 3 lbs ripe peaches (about 6 medium peaches): The star of the show! Choose peaches that are fragrant, slightly soft to the touch, and free from blemishes. Peeling is optional, but recommended for a smoother texture.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Acts as a thickening agent for the peach juices, ensuring a perfectly set filling.
• 1 ½ tablespoons all-purpose flour: Works in conjunction with cornstarch to create the ideal consistency for the filling.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: A small but mighty ingredient that balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavors of the peaches and caramel.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A classic spice pairing with peaches, adding warmth and aromatic depth.
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Offers a subtle, spicy sweetness that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Provides the foundational sweetness for the filling, balancing the tartness of the peaches.
• ¼ cup maple syrup: Introduces a rich, complex sweetness and distinctive flavor that pairs wonderfully with bourbon and peaches. Use pure maple syrup for the best results.
• 1/4 cup bourbon: Adds a sophisticated, woody, and slightly sweet note to the caramel, elevating the pie’s flavor profile. The alcohol cooks off, leaving only the essence.
• 1 tablespoon water: Helps dissolve the sugar for the caramel, ensuring a smooth texture.
• 3 tablespoons salted butter: Adds richness and helps create the luscious caramel sauce. Salted butter enhances the flavor contrast.
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice: Brightens the fruit flavors, prevents peaches from browning, and balances the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Aromatic and sweet, vanilla extract deepens the overall flavor of the filling.

For the Brown Butter Streusel Topping:

• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: The base for your crumbly streusel.
• 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar: Provides a moist, caramel-like sweetness to the streusel.
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Adds a touch more sweetness and helps with crispness.
• ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter: This butter will be browned to create a nutty, complex flavor that defines this streusel.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing the rich, buttery flavor of the streusel.
• Pinch of cinnamon: A subtle addition that ties the streusel topping to the pie filling’s spice notes.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Big Green Egg Grilled Peach Pie:

Follow these detailed steps carefully to achieve a perfectly grilled, wonderfully flavorful peach pie that will impress everyone.

Phase 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Carefully unroll or place your pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan. Gently press it down to ensure it conforms to the shape of the pan, paying attention to the edges.
2. Trim any excessive overhang, leaving about a ½-inch border. Fold this excess dough underneath the rim of the pan to create a thicker edge.
3. Crimp the edges of your pie crust using your fingers or a fork, creating a decorative and functional border. Ensure the crimping is relatively even to prevent burning during baking.
4. Chill the Crust: Place the pie pan with the prepared crust into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial as it helps the butter in the crust firm up, preventing shrinkage during baking and ensuring a flaky texture.

Phase 2: Prepare the Luscious Peach Filling

Peeling your peaches is optional but recommended for a smoother, more refined pie texture. Here’s how:

1. If using fresh peaches:
   1. Bring a large pot of clean water to a rolling boil.
   2. While the water heats, use a small paring knife to carefully cut a shallow “X” on the bottom of each peach.
   3. Prepare an ice bath in a large bowl (cold water with plenty of ice cubes).
   4. Gently blanch your peaches in the boiling water for approximately 30 seconds. This helps loosen the skin.
   5. Using a slotted spoon, quickly transfer the blanched peaches directly into the ice bath to stop the cooking process.
   6. Once cooled, use your fingers to locate the “X” you made. The skin should now peel off effortlessly.
   7. Slice the peeled peaches into even, bite-sized wedges or slices (about ½-inch thick) and place them in a large, heatproof mixing bowl.
2. If using frozen peaches: Allow them to gently thaw in a colander. Ensure they are relatively dry before proceeding to prevent a watery pie filling.
3. Toss the sliced peaches in the large bowl with 2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. The lemon juice helps preserve their color and adds brightness.
4. In the same bowl, add the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, salt, and ground nutmeg. Gently toss the peaches until each slice is evenly and thoroughly coated with the spice and thickening mixture. This step ensures the filling thickens properly and flavors are well distributed.

Phase 3: Prepare the Rich Bourbon-Maple Caramel Sauce

1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, preferably a light-colored one so you can monitor the caramel’s color, combine the granulated sugar, maple syrup, the remaining lemon juice, bourbon, and water.
2. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Swirl the pot gently to help the sugar dissolve, but avoid stirring with a spoon to prevent crystallization. Once the sugar begins to dissolve and the mixture is simmering, cover the pot with its lid for about 1 minute. This traps steam, washing down any sugar crystals clinging to the sides of the pan.
3. Remove the lid and continue to cook, without stirring, until the caramel begins to turn a beautiful warm amber color. This usually takes 5-8 minutes after the lid is removed. Watch it closely, as caramel can burn quickly.
4. As soon as it reaches the desired amber hue, remove the saucepan from the heat immediately. Carefully add the 3 tablespoons of salted butter. Gently swirl the pan until the butter completely melts into the sauce, creating a smooth, glossy caramel. Let it cool slightly for a few minutes.
5. Pour the slightly cooled caramel mixture over the bowl of prepared peaches. Gently toss until all the peach slices are thoroughly coated.
6. Transfer the entire peach filling mixture into your chilled pie shell, spreading it evenly. Return the assembled pie to the refrigerator to chill again while you prepare your BGE and streusel. This extra chill helps the crust and filling set and prevents the pie from becoming overly soft before it hits the grill.

Phase 4: Preheat Your Big Green Egg

1. Set up your Big Green Egg for indirect cooking. This means placing the convEGGtor (plate setter) with its legs up, and then placing your cooking grid on top. Bring the internal temperature of the BGE to a stable 400°F (204°C). Allow plenty of time for it to reach and maintain this temperature for even cooking.
2. Place your ceramic pizza stone on top of the cooking grid. Ensure it is preheated along with the BGE and positioned centrally, away from any direct heat hotspots. The pizza stone will provide a consistent, even heat to the bottom of your pie, resulting in a perfectly crispy crust.

Phase 5: Prepare the Brown Butter Streusel Topping

1. In the same saucepan you used for the caramel (no need to wash, the residual flavors will add to the streusel!), melt the ½ cup (1 stick) of salted butter over low-medium heat. Continuously stir the butter to prevent burning. Watch as the butter melts, foams, and the milk solids at the bottom begin to turn a golden-brown color and release a nutty aroma. This process typically takes 5-7 minutes. Once it achieves a rich, golden-brown hue and a fragrant nutty scent, quickly remove it from the heat and transfer it to a separate bowl to cool slightly.
2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and a pinch of cinnamon until all dry ingredients are well combined.
3. Once the browned butter has cooled slightly (it should still be liquid but not piping hot), slowly drizzle it into the dry streusel mixture. Use a fork or your fingertips to mix the ingredients until crumbs begin to form. Avoid overmixing; you want distinct crumbles, not a dough.
4. Spread the streusel mixture out evenly on a wide baking tray or a shallow pan. Place it in the fridge to chill and firm up. Chilling the streusel prevents it from melting too quickly when added to the hot pie and helps maintain its crumbly texture.

Phase 6: Cooking the Pie on the Big Green Egg

1. Carefully transfer your chilled pie (in its pan) onto the preheated pizza stone within the BGE. Close the dome.
2. Cook the pie at a steady 400°F (204°C) for the initial 30 minutes. During this stage, the crust will begin to set and slightly brown, and the filling will start to warm and bubble.
3. After 30 minutes, open the BGE dome and carefully sprinkle the chilled streusel topping evenly over the surface of the pie. Be gentle to avoid disturbing the partially baked crust.
4. Reduce the BGE temperature to 375°F (190°C). Close the dome and continue to cook for an additional 25 minutes, or until several visual cues indicate doneness: the streusel topping should be a beautiful golden brown, the caramel filling should be visibly bubbling and thick, and the pie crust should appear well-done and golden all around the edges.

Phase 7: Final Steps and Enjoyment

1. Once cooked to perfection, carefully remove the pie from the Big Green Egg using heat-resistant gloves. Transfer it to a cooling rack.
2. Crucial Cooling Step: Allow the pie to cool and chill for at least 4 hours before attempting to slice it. This extended cooling time is absolutely essential for the filling to fully set, preventing a runny pie. Patience here will be greatly rewarded with clean, beautiful slices.
3. Once properly chilled and set, slice the pie and serve it with your favorite accompaniments. A generous scoop of premium vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream will complete this sensational grilled peach pie experience. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

5 Delicious Variations and Thoughtful Substitutions:

While the Brown Butter Bourbon Maple Grilled Peach Pie is a masterpiece on its own, its core components allow for creative adaptations to suit various tastes, dietary needs, or seasonal availability. Don’t hesitate to experiment!

1. Seasonal Fruit Variations: Peaches are phenomenal, but you can easily substitute them with other stone fruits or berries.
   • Nectarines or Apricots: Offer a similar texture and sweetness, often requiring no peeling.
   • Mixed Berries: A combination of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries can create a vibrant and tangy filling. You might need to adjust the sugar level slightly, as berries tend to be tarter.
   • Apples (seasonal twist): For a fall rendition, use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. You might want to slightly increase the cinnamon and nutmeg.
2. Alcohol Substitutions or Omissions: The bourbon adds a unique depth, but it’s not strictly necessary.
   • Dark Rum or Whiskey: For a different flavor profile, dark rum offers a sweeter, molasses-like note, while whiskey provides a smokier, spicier edge.
   • Brandy: Offers a fruity, slightly sweet alcohol base.
   • Non-Alcoholic Version: To omit alcohol entirely, simply increase the vanilla extract to 2 teaspoons, or add a teaspoon of rum extract for a hint of flavor without the alcohol. You can also substitute the bourbon with an equal amount of strong brewed black tea or apple cider for added liquid.
3. Gluten-Free Pie Option: Making this pie gluten-free is straightforward with a few simple swaps.
   • Gluten-Free Pie Crust: Use a store-bought gluten-free pie crust or make your own with a blend of gluten-free flours.
   • Gluten-Free Flour Blend: Substitute the all-purpose flour in both the filling and the streusel with your preferred 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture, or add it separately if not included.
   • Cornstarch Check: Double-check that your cornstarch is certified gluten-free, as some brands may have cross-contamination.
4. Vegan Adaptation: Transform this decadent pie into a vegan delight with these plant-based alternatives.
   • Vegan Margarine/Butter: Swap dairy butter for a high-quality vegan margarine or plant-based butter alternative in both the filling caramel and the streusel topping. Ensure it’s suitable for browning.
   • Vegan Pie Crust: Use a store-bought vegan pie crust, or prepare a homemade one using vegetable shortening or vegan butter.
   • Bourbon Check: While most bourbon is vegan, some brands may use animal-derived fining agents. If this is a concern, opt for a certified vegan bourbon or choose a non-alcoholic substitute as mentioned above.
5. Nutty Crunch Elevation: Introduce more texture and flavor to the streusel topping.
   • Pecans or Almonds: Incorporate ½ cup of finely chopped pecans, almonds, or walnuts into the streusel mixture. Toasting the nuts lightly before adding them will enhance their flavor even further.
   • Coconut Flakes: For a tropical twist, add ½ cup of unsweetened shredded coconut to the streusel.

Expert Tips and Tricks for Making the Best Grilled Peach Pie:

Achieving pie perfection, especially on a grill, comes down to understanding a few key techniques and considerations. These tips will help you navigate the process and ensure your Brown Butter Bourbon Maple Grilled Peach Pie is nothing short of spectacular.

• Timing and Visual Cues are Crucial: Unlike oven baking, grilling can be a bit more variable. It’s essential to keep a watchful eye on your pie during its time on the Big Green Egg. Look for these signs of doneness:
  • Streusel Topping: It should be a deep golden brown, indicating it’s perfectly crisp and cooked through.
  • Caramel Filling: The filling should be actively bubbling up through the peaches, and appear thick and glossy, signaling that it has caramelized and thickened properly.
  • Pie Crust: The edges of the crust should be deeply golden brown and look firm and fully baked. If the edges are browning too quickly, you can gently cover them with foil during the last part of baking.

  Undercooking can result in a soggy bottom crust and a runny filling, while overcooking may lead to a dry, overly firm pie. Trust your senses more than the exact time.

• Optimal Freshness and Storage: This grilled peach pie is undeniably at its peak when served shortly after it has cooled to the recommended temperature. The crust is at its crispiest, and the flavors are most vibrant.
  • Room Temperature Storage: If you have leftovers, the pie can be stored loosely covered at room temperature for a day or two. For longer storage, refrigerate.
  • Reheating for Best Results: To revive its warmth and texture, cover individual slices or the whole pie loosely with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at a low temperature (around 300°F/150°C) until gently warmed through, approximately 15-20 minutes. You can also briefly warm it on a low-temperature BGE. This method helps preserve its moisture and prevents the crust from becoming too soft.
• Freezing for Future Indulgence: While freezing a whole baked pie is possible, it’s often more practical and yields better results to freeze individual slices.
  • Freezing Slices: Once the pie is completely cooled, cut it into individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
  • Reheating Frozen Slices: To enjoy, thaw a slice in the refrigerator overnight. Then, warm it in a preheated oven or on a low-temperature BGE as described above. A fresh drizzle of warm maple syrup or a dash of bourbon can wonderfully revive its flavors and moisture content after reheating.
• Thoughtful Pairing and Seasoning Adaptation: Your choice of toppings or accompaniments can significantly influence the overall perceived sweetness and flavor of the pie.
  • Sweetness Adjustment: If you plan to serve the pie with a rich, sweet accompaniment like classic vanilla ice cream, you might consider slightly reducing the sugar in the pie filling to maintain balance.
  • Flavor Harmony: Conversely, if you opt for unsweetened whipped cream or a more tart sorbet, keeping the filling slightly sweeter will create a more satisfying contrast.
  • Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg to your preference. A little extra spice can enhance the warmth, especially if serving during cooler evenings. Adapt the seasonings to harmonize perfectly with your chosen accompaniments, ensuring a truly tailored dessert experience.

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