Peach Basil Spring Crostata

Name: Peach Basil Spring Crostata
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 2-3 tablespoons ice water; 4 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced; ¼ cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; Pinch of salt; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Additional sugar for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Spring Greens

I absolutely love making this Peach Basil Spring Crostata during the warmer months! The sweet, juicy peaches combined with the aromatic basil create a delightful pairing that sings of spring. I find the rustic, free-form nature of a crostata makes it less intimidating than a pie, and it bakes up beautifully with a golden, flaky crust. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweetness and herbaceous notes, making it a fantastic dessert for gatherings or just for enjoying on a sunny afternoon.

Created by

The Chefalexcooks Team

Last updated on 2026-03-05T05:54:22.384Z

When I decided to combine peaches and basil for the first time in a dessert, I was pleasantly surprised by the results. My family and friends raved about the unexpected flavor combination, which added a fresh twist to a classic dessert. I particularly love how the basil elevates the sweetness of the peaches, making each bite taste like a burst of summer.

One tip I picked up is to let the peach filling sit for a few minutes before assembling the crostata. This allows the juices to meld with the sugar, creating a more flavorful mixture and preventing the crust from becoming soggy. Trust me, this step is worth it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Sweet peaches pair perfectly with aromatic basil
A rustic, easy-to-make dessert that impresses
Great for warm weather gatherings or afternoon snacks

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using ripe peaches is essential for achieving the sweetest and juiciest filling in your crostata. Look for peaches that yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating they are perfectly ripe. If fresh peaches are out of season, you can substitute with high-quality canned peaches; just ensure to drain them well before use. Additionally, fresh basil adds a unique aromatic quality that elevates the flavor profile, making it a standout ingredient in this dessert.

Lemon juice not only provides acidity to balance the sweetness of the peaches but also enhances their natural flavors. Moreover, the cornstarch is crucial as it thickens the fruit juices during baking, preventing a soggy crust. If you don't have cornstarch on hand, you can use an equal part of all-purpose flour, but be aware that it may not yield as thick a consistency.

Techniques for a Perfect Crostata

When making the crostata dough, ensure that your butter is very cold; this helps create a flaky texture. You can even chill the flour beforehand if you want to be extra cautious. When mixing the dough, avoid overworking it to keep it tender. If the dough is crumbly and not coming together, add a little more ice water, one teaspoon at a time, until it holds together without becoming sticky.

During assembly, folding the edges of the dough over the filling should be done gently; this not only keeps the peaches secure but also creates a rustic, evenly-baked edge. Make sure to leave ample space in the center of the dough for the filling to bubble up without spilling over. A good egg wash gives the crust a beautiful golden sheen, while a sprinkle of sugar enhances both texture and sweetness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Peach Basil Spring Crostata:

For the Crostata Dough

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
2-3 tablespoons ice water

For the Peach Filling

4 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon cornstarch
Pinch of salt

For Assembly

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Additional sugar for sprinkling

Ensure all ingredients are ready before you start to make the preparation smooth.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Peach Basil Spring Crostata:

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine the sliced peaches, brown sugar, basil, lemon juice, cornstarch, and salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a large circle, about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.

Assemble the Crostata

Spoon the peach mixture onto the center of the dough, leaving about 2 inches of border. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pleating as you go. Brush the dough with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar.

Bake the Crostata

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Cool and Serve

Allow the crostata to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Enjoy your delicious Peach Basil Spring Crostata!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the peach filling or a dash of vanilla extract. This enhances the overall taste and complements the peach perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

This Peach Basil Spring Crostata is delightful on its own, but serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream can take it to the next level. The creaminess of the ice cream melts beautifully into the warm filling, creating a comforting dessert experience. Alternatively, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of honey complements the herbaceous notes of the basil beautifully.

You can also try pairing it with a refreshing mint tea or a light, fruity white wine, both of which highlight the flavors of peach and basil. If you have any leftovers, serve them for breakfast the next day with a cup of coffee for a lovely spring brunch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare the crostata ahead of time, you can make the dough and filling separately. The dough can be frozen for up to three months; just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then roll it out and assemble as directed.

The assembled crostata is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate for up to a week; just be aware that the crust may lose some of its crispness. To revive the flakiness, pop leftover slices in a toaster oven for a few minutes before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using to prevent a watery filling.

→ How do I store leftover crostata?

Store any leftover crostata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

→ What can I serve with this crostata?

This crostata pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a dollop of yogurt for a lighter touch.