Peach filo is a delightful dessert that combines the flaky, crisp texture of filo pastry with the juicy sweetness of fresh peaches. This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a light and elegant treat perfect for warm-weather gatherings or a special weeknight dessert.
We love how the delicate layers of filo wrap around tender peach slices, creating a beautiful golden crust that’s both crispy and buttery. It’s a fantastic way to showcase seasonal peaches while keeping the dessert light and refreshing.
Ingredients
To master our Peach Filo Recipe, we rely on fresh, simple ingredients that bring out the best flavors with each bite. Below are the essentials divided for clarity and ease of preparation.
For the Peach Filling
- 4 large ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced thin
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (to thicken filling)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
For the Filo Dough
- 12 sheets of filo pastry, thawed according to package instructions
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing layers)
For the Syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1 teaspoon honey or a splash of peach brandy for enhanced flavor
| Ingredient Category | Key Components |
|---|---|
| Peach Filling | Fresh peaches, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, vanilla, cornstarch, butter |
| Filo Dough | Filo sheets, unsalted butter |
| Syrup | Sugar, water, lemon juice, vanilla extract, optional flavor boosters |
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Peach Filo Recipe flawlessly, having the right equipment is essential. This ensures precise handling of delicate filo sheets and perfect cooking of the peach filling and syrup.
Essential Tools for Peach Filling and Syrup
- Mixing Bowls: Use medium and large bowls for combining the peach filling ingredients and syrup components.
- Whisk: To blend the cornstarch smoothly into the filling and syrup without lumps.
- Saucepan: A medium-sized, heavy-bottomed pan works best to simmer the syrup evenly without burning.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement of sugar, lemon juice, and other ingredients is critical.
- Peeler and Knife: For peeling and slicing peaches uniformly to ensure even cooking.
Filo Pastry Handling Equipment
- Pastry Brush: We recommend a soft-bristle brush for applying melted butter gently to each filo sheet. This step is key for achieving the signature crispness.
- Flat Baking Sheet or Oven Tray: A rimmed tray with a non-stick surface or lined with parchment paper to hold the assembled filo dessert.
- Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: To trim filo sheets to fit the baking pan and for portioning the finished dessert.
- Clean Kitchen Towel: Cover filo sheets during assembly to prevent them from drying out, preserving their delicate texture.
Oven and Serving Tools
- Convection or Conventional Oven: Preheated to 350°F (175°C) for even, golden baking.
- Cooling Rack: Allows airflow to cool the dessert without becoming soggy.
| Equipment Item | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine filling and syrup | Use at least 2 sizes |
| Whisk | Blend ingredients | Avoid lumps |
| Saucepan | Simmer syrup | Heavy-bottomed preferred |
| Measuring Tools | Ensure ingredient accuracy | Cups and spoons needed |
| Peeler and Knife | Prepare peaches | Slice uniformly |
| Pastry Brush | Butter filo | Soft bristles for delicate work |
| Baking Sheet | Bake assembled filo dessert | Use non-stick or parchment lined |
| Sharp Knife/Pizza Cutter | Cut filo and portions | Clean sharp edge |
| Kitchen Towel | Cover filo during prep | Keeps pastry moist |
| Oven | Bake dessert | Preheat to 350°F (175°C) |
| Cooling Rack | Cool dessert | Prevents sogginess |
This carefully selected equipment allows us to handle the fragile filo pastry and luscious peach filling with confidence. Each item supports precision and ease during preparation — keys to mastering our Peach Filo Recipe.
Prep Work
Before we assemble our Peach Filo Recipe, let’s ensure every component is perfectly prepared. Proper Prep Work guarantees crisp filo layers and juicy peach filling.
Preparing the Peaches
First, we focus on the star ingredient: fresh peaches. Follow these steps for ideal texture and flavor:
- Wash the peaches thoroughly under cold water.
- Peel the skin using a sharp peeler, removing it gently to preserve flesh integrity.
- Slice the peaches uniformly into ½-inch thick wedges for even cooking.
- Combine the sliced peaches in a bowl with:
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
This mixture will macerate, producing a sweet, fragrant filling that melds beautifully with the filo’s crispness.
Thawing and Handling Filo Dough
Handling filo requires care to keep it from drying out or tearing. Follow these tips:
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Thawing | Remove filo from freezer and thaw in the refrigerator overnight or for 8 hours. |
| Handling | Keep filo covered with a slightly damp kitchen towel to maintain moisture while working. |
| Brushing | Use melted unsalted butter between layers to create flaky, golden layers. |
| Cutting | Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean, precise cuts without ripping. |
Note: Work quickly but gently to keep filo intact and supple. Proper handling of filo dough is key to achieving that delicate, buttery crunch in our Peach Filo Recipe.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create a perfectly crisp and flavorful Peach Filo dessert. From preparing the filling to achieving golden, flaky layers, we guide you through the entire process for a show-stopping finish.
Making the Peach Filling
- Prepare the Peaches:
Wash, peel, and slice 4 cups of ripe peaches into even wedges to ensure uniform cooking.
- Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced peaches with the following for a balanced, fragrant filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup | Sweetens the fruit |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Enhances brightness |
| Ground cinnamon | ½ teaspoon | Adds warm spice |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Deepens flavor profile |
| Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons | Thickens the filling |
| Melted unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons | Adds richness and silkiness |
- Mix Thoroughly:
Whisk gently to coat all peach slices evenly, ensuring the sugar dissolves and spices blend uniformly.
- Rest the Filling:
Set aside for 10-15 minutes. This step allows the peaches to macerate, releasing their natural juices and melding flavors.
Assembling the Peach Filo
- Preheat and Prepare Workstation:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover your filo sheets with a damp kitchen towel to prevent drying.
- Prepare the Filo Layers:
Use a pastry brush to generously coat one filo sheet with melted butter. Place the sheet on your baking tray. Repeat this step layering 6 sheets total, brushing each sheet before adding the next. This creates the buttery, flaky texture Peach Filo is known for.
- Add Peach Filling:
Evenly spread the prepared peach filling over the layered filo dough, leaving about a 1-inch border on all sides to prevent overflow.
- Top Layer Assembly:
Repeat the process of brushing and layering an additional 4 filo sheets over the peaches. Brush the top sheet liberally with melted butter to promote golden browning.
- Trim the Edges:
Carefully cut away any excess filo dough to neat edges for visual appeal and even baking.
Baking the Peach Filo
- Bake:
Place the assembled filo in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filo is a deep golden brown, and the peach filling bubbles gently beneath.
- Monitor Brownness:
If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil halfway through baking to prevent burning while allowing the filling to cook through.
- Cool:
Remove from the oven and transfer the dessert to a wire rack. Let it cool completely for at least 20 minutes to allow the filling to set and the filo to crisp further.
“The magic of this dessert lies in the contrast between the buttery, flaky filo and the juicy, fragrant peach filling,” making patience during baking and cooling essential for the best texture and flavor.
Directions for the Syrup
To elevate our Peach Filo Recipe, the syrup adds a luscious, glossy finish that enhances every bite. Let’s break down how to prepare and apply this delectable syrup perfectly.
Preparing the Sweet Syrup
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup water.
- Add 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice for brightness and a 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to deepen the flavor.
- Optional: Stir in 1 tablespoon honey or 2 tablespoons peach brandy for a nuanced sweetness.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.
- Reduce the heat and let the syrup simmer gently for 8-10 minutes until slightly thickened but still pourable.
- Remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool to room temperature.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup | Sweetens the syrup |
| Water | 1 cup | Base liquid for syrup |
| Lemon Juice | 2 tbsp | Adds acidity and balance |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp | Enhances aromatic depth |
| Honey (optional) | 1 tbsp | Adds natural sweetness |
| Peach Brandy (optional) | 2 tbsp | Provides fruity warmth |
Applying the Syrup to the Baked Filo
Once our Peach Filo is golden and crisp from the oven:
- Remove the filo carefully from the oven and set it on a cooling rack.
- Using a spoon or a ladle, slowly pour the cooled syrup evenly over the entire surface.
- Allow the syrup to soak into the warm filo layers for 10-15 minutes, ensuring the syrup penetrates while keeping the crisp texture on top.
- For the best experience, serve the filopastry when the syrup is fully absorbed, creating a perfect balance between flaky crispness and juicy sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance the experience of our Peach Filo dessert, consider these serving ideas that highlight its crisp, buttery texture and juicy peach filling.
- Serve Warm with a Dollop of Vanilla Ice Cream
The contrast between the warm crispy filo and cool creamy ice cream creates a delightful play of temperatures and textures. Use a high-quality vanilla bean ice cream to complement the peach’s natural sweetness.
- Drizzle Additional Syrup for Extra Moisture
After the syrup has soaked into the filo, serve with a small drizzle on the side. This adds an extra layer of juicy sweetness that guests can customize.
- Add Fresh Mint Leaves as Garnish
A sprig of fresh mint provides a refreshing aroma and a pop of color that enhances the plate’s visual appeal.
- Pair with Fresh Berries or Whipped Cream
Blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries balance the sweetness with a slight tartness. Whipped cream adds a rich, airy texture that works wonderfully alongside the filo.
- Serve with a Light, Fruity Wine
A chilled Moscato or Riesling pairs perfectly with the peaches’ natural flavor enhancing the dish for special occasions.
Presentation Tips
We recommend serving the Peach Filo on a simple white dessert plate to showcase the golden brown filo layers and vibrant peach filling. Use a sharp knife to slice clean portions and place a small pool of syrup next to each serving.
| Serving Element | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Vanilla Ice Cream | Creamy, cold contrast to warm filo | Balances texture & temperature |
| Additional Syrup | Extra drizzle of peach-flavored syrup | Enhances sweetness & juiciness |
| Fresh Mint Leaves | Small green garnish | Adds freshness and aroma |
| Fresh Seasonal Berries | Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries | Adds color and tartness |
| Fruity Wine | Moscato or Riesling | Complements peach flavor |
“For a truly elegant presentation serve the Peach Filo slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and finish with a drizzle of syrup and a sprig of fresh mint.“
By pairing the Peach Filo with these accompaniments we elevate the dessert’s profile turning it into a memorable conclusion to any meal.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Proper storage and smart make-ahead strategies ensure our Peach Filo Recipe retains its flaky texture and fresh peach flavor whenever we’re ready to enjoy it.
Storing Peach Filo
- Allow the dessert to cool completely on a cooling rack before storing.
- Cover loosely with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container to prevent the filo from drying out.
- Store the filo in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
- To maintain crispness, we can reheat individual portions in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes before serving.
| Storage Method | Temperature | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Covered at room temp | Room temperature | Up to 8 hours | Best if consuming the same day |
| Refrigerated airtight | 35-40°F (2-4°C) | 2 days | Prevents sogginess and maintains flavor |
| Reheated in oven | 350°F (175°C) | 5-7 minutes | Restores crispness before serving |
Freezing Peach Filo
- We can freeze the assembled filo dessert before baking to save time.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze for up to 1 month.
- When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
- Avoid freezing after baking and syrup application, as this affects texture.
Make-Ahead Tips for Peach Filo
- Prepare the peach filling a day ahead to let flavors meld beautifully. Store it refrigerated in a sealed container.
- Assemble the filo layers and peach filling up to 4 hours before baking, cover with plastic wrap, and keep refrigerated.
- Make the sweet syrup in advance, cool it completely, and store in the fridge. Warm slightly before drizzling over the baked filo.
- For best results, bake the filo just before serving to preserve its flakiness.
“Planning ahead can transform our Peach Filo into a stress-free, show-stopping dessert that feels freshly made every single time.”
With these storage and make-ahead tips, we ensure every bite of our Peach Filo Recipe delivers the perfect balance of crispy pastry and juicy peaches, even hours or days after assembly.
Conclusion
Peach Filo is a dessert that brings together simplicity and elegance in every bite. Its flaky layers and juicy peach filling create a delightful harmony that’s perfect for any occasion. With a little attention to detail and the right techniques, this recipe becomes an effortless way to impress.
Whether you’re serving it warm with ice cream or pairing it with fresh berries, Peach Filo offers versatility and charm. It’s a dessert that celebrates the season’s best flavors while remaining light and satisfying. We’re confident this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for the peach filling in Peach Filo?
The peach filling requires ripe peaches, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, vanilla extract, cornstarch, and melted butter to create a fragrant and flavorful mix.
How should I handle the filo dough to prevent it from drying?
Keep the filo dough covered with a damp kitchen towel while working to prevent it from drying out. Brush each sheet with melted unsalted butter for extra flakiness.
What equipment is essential for making Peach Filo?
You need mixing bowls, a whisk, saucepans, measuring spoons, a peeler, knife, pastry brush, baking sheet, sharp knife or pizza cutter, and a cooling rack.
How do I prepare the peach filling before assembling the filo?
Wash, peel, and slice the peaches, then combine them with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, vanilla, cornstarch, and melted butter. Let the mixture rest for the flavors to meld.
What’s the best way to bake Peach Filo?
Preheat the oven, layer filo sheets brushed with butter, add the peach filling, trim edges, and bake until golden brown. Monitor browning and cool completely for perfect texture.
How do I make the syrup for Peach Filo?
Simmer sugar, water, lemon juice, and vanilla extract together until slightly thickened. Optionally, add honey or peach brandy for extra flavor. Cool before drizzling over the baked filo.
When should I pour the syrup on the Peach Filo?
Pour the cooled syrup over the warm filo right after baking, then let it soak for 10-15 minutes to balance the crispness and juiciness.
What are good serving suggestions for Peach Filo?
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, drizzle extra syrup, garnish with fresh mint, and consider pairing with fresh berries or a light fruity wine.
How can I store leftover Peach Filo?
Allow the dessert to cool completely, then store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat individual portions in a preheated oven to keep it crisp.
Can Peach Filo be made ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the peach filling a day in advance and assemble the dessert up to 4 hours before baking to save time and maintain freshness.