Peach Pie Cruffins: Where Flaky Pastry Meets Juicy Peach Bliss

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Introduction

Imagine biting into a treat that combines the buttery, flaky layers of a croissant with the juicy, cinnamon-kissed filling of peach pie—all in one handheld delight. That’s exactly what Peach Pie Cruffins deliver! These irresistible pastries are the perfect marriage of a muffin’s convenience and a pie’s decadence, featuring golden, sugar-crusted edges and a sweet glaze drizzle that makes them impossible to resist.

Perfect for brunch gatherings, dessert tables, or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, these cruffins are surprisingly simple to make thanks to store-bought puff pastry. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe guarantees impressive results with minimal effort.

Let’s dive into how to create these heavenly pastries, along with pro tips for the flakiest layers, flavor variations, and make-ahead tricks to simplify your baking routine.

Ingredients & Why They Work

For the Cruffins:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed) – The shortcut to flaky, buttery layers without the hassle of homemade dough.
  • 1 cup peach pie filling – Use store-bought for ease, or make your own with:
  • 1½ cups diced ripe peaches (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar (enhances natural sweetness)
  • 1 tsp cinnamon (adds warmth)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice (balances sweetness)
  • ¼ cup brown sugar – Creates a caramelized, gooey texture as it bakes.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract – Elevates the peach flavor.
  • 1 tsp cinnamon – A must for that classic pie spice.

For the Glaze:

  • ½ cup powdered sugar – Creates a smooth, sweet drizzle.
  • 1 tbsp milk (or heavy cream for richness) – Adjust for desired consistency.
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract – Adds depth to the glaze.

For Topping (Optional but Recommended):

  • Turbinado sugar – For a sparkling, crunchy finish.
  • Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream – Takes it to dessert-level decadence.
  • Fresh peach slices – For a pretty garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Peach Filling

  1. If using homemade filling: In a bowl, toss together diced peaches, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Let sit for 10 minutes to macerate (this draws out the juices). Lightly mash with a fork, leaving some chunks for texture.
  2. If using store-bought filling: Give it a stir to break up any large peach pieces.

2. Roll & Fill the Pastry

  1. Unfold the puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. Gently roll it into a 12×9-inch rectangle (this ensures even layers).
  2. Spread the peach filling evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
  3. Sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon for extra caramelization.

3. Roll, Cut, and Shape

  1. Starting from the long side, tightly roll the pastry into a log (like a jelly roll).
  2. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 6 equal pieces.
  3. Place each spiral into a greased muffin tin, swirl-side up. This creates those beautiful, flaky layers.

4. Bake to Golden Perfection

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cruffins are deep golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
  3. Optional: Brush with melted butter halfway through baking for extra crispiness.

5. Glaze & Serve

  1. Make the glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
  2. Drizzle generously over warm cruffins.
  3. Sprinkle with turbinado sugar for crunch.
  4. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream for the ultimate treat!

Pro Tips for the Best Cruffins

For Flakier Layers:

  • Keep puff pastry cold until ready to use (warm dough = less flaky).
  • Brush with melted butter before baking for extra crispiness.

For a Gooey Center:

  • Add 1 tsp cornstarch to the peach filling to thicken the juices.
  • Don’t overbake—remove when the edges are golden but the center is still slightly soft.

Flavor Variations:

🍎 Apple Cinnamon: Swap peaches for spiced apple pie filling.
🍫 Chocolate-Peach: Add mini chocolate chips before rolling.
🍯 Bourbon Caramel: Drizzle with bourbon-spiked caramel sauce instead of glaze.

Make-Ahead & Storage:

  • Unbaked: Assemble cruffins, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed (add 2-3 extra minutes).
  • Baked: Store in an airtight container for 2 days (reheat for 5 mins at 350°F to refresh).
  • Freeze: Wrap baked cruffins tightly and freeze for 1 month. Thaw and reheat before glazing.

Why This Recipe Works

  1. Puff Pastry Magic: The layers create a croissant-like texture without the work of laminating dough.
  2. Peach Perfection: The filling stays juicy but not soggy, thanks to the sugar and cinnamon balance.
  3. Versatile: Works with fresh, frozen, or canned peaches, making it year-round friendly.
  4. Crowd-Pleasing: Equally loved as breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

“These cruffins taste like summer in every bite—flaky, fruity, and utterly addictive!”

Conclusion

Peach Pie Cruffins are the ultimate easy-but-impressive pastry, combining the best of pies, croissants, and muffins into one irresistible treat. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch party, enjoying them with coffee, or gifting them to a friend, they’re guaranteed to delight.

Final Serving Ideas:

  • Brunch Board: Pair with yogurt and fresh berries.
  • Dessert Upgrade: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
  • On-the-Go Breakfast: Wrap in parchment for a portable treat.

“Proof that the simplest recipes often create the most memorable flavors.” 🍑✨

Happy baking—and even happier eating!

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