Colorado, known for its breathtaking mountains, scenic landscapes, and vibrant culture, has a sweet secret that sets it apart from other states. In 2009, the Colorado General Assembly officially designated a specific type of pie as the state’s official dessert. But what is Colorado’s state pie, and what makes it so special?
A Brief History of Pie in Colorado
Pie has been a staple in American cuisine for centuries, and Colorado is no exception. The state’s early settlers, including Native American tribes and European pioneers, brought their own pie-making traditions with them. As the state grew and developed, so did its love for pie. From classic apple and pumpkin to more unique flavors like cherry and apricot, pie became a beloved dessert throughout Colorado.
The Rise of a New Favorite
In the early 2000s, a new type of pie began to gain popularity in Colorado. This pie was made with a unique combination of ingredients, including a flaky crust, a sweet and tangy filling, and a crunchy topping. It was a flavor unlike any other, and it quickly captured the hearts of Coloradans.
What is Colorado’s State Pie?
So, what is Colorado’s official state pie? The answer is the Palisade Peach Pie. This delicious dessert is made with fresh peaches from Palisade, a small town in western Colorado known for its peach orchards. The pie is a masterpiece of flavors and textures, with a flaky crust, a sweet and tangy peach filling, and a crunchy pecan topping.
The Palisade Peach: A Fruit Like No Other
The Palisade peach is a unique variety of peach that is grown exclusively in the Palisade region. These peaches are known for their sweet flavor, firm texture, and vibrant color. They are the perfect ingredient for a pie, and they give the Palisade Peach Pie its signature flavor.
Award-Winning Peaches
The Palisade peach has won numerous awards for its flavor and quality. In 2019, the peach was named one of the top 10 peaches in the country by the United States Department of Agriculture. This recognition has helped to establish the Palisade peach as one of the premier peach varieties in the United States.
The Making of a Masterpiece
So, how is the Palisade Peach Pie made? The process is a labor of love that requires skill, patience, and attention to detail. Here’s a brief overview of how this masterpiece is created:
The Crust
The crust is the foundation of a great pie, and the Palisade Peach Pie is no exception. The crust is made with a combination of flour, sugar, and butter, which is rolled out to a perfect thickness. The crust is then placed in a pie dish and baked to a golden brown.
The Filling
The filling is the heart of the pie, and it’s made with a combination of fresh peaches, sugar, and spices. The peaches are sliced thin and mixed with a blend of sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The mixture is then poured into the pie crust and topped with a crunchy pecan topping.
The Topping
The topping is the final touch on this masterpiece. A mixture of pecans, sugar, and butter is sprinkled over the top of the pie, adding a crunchy texture and a touch of sweetness.
Where to Try the Palisade Peach Pie
If you’re interested in trying the Palisade Peach Pie, there are several places in Colorado where you can find it. Here are a few recommendations:
- The Palisade Café: This café is located in the heart of Palisade and serves up some of the best peach pie in the state.
- The Peach Valley Café: This café is located in nearby Grand Junction and offers a variety of peach-based desserts, including the famous Palisade Peach Pie.
Conclusion
The Palisade Peach Pie is a true Colorado treasure, and it’s a must-try for anyone visiting the state. With its unique combination of flavors and textures, this pie is a masterpiece of culinary art. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or just someone who loves a good dessert, the Palisade Peach Pie is sure to delight. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you.
| Fun Facts About the Palisade Peach Pie |
|---|
| The Palisade Peach Pie was designated as the official state pie of Colorado in 2009. |
| The pie is made with fresh peaches from Palisade, a small town in western Colorado. |
| The Palisade peach is a unique variety of peach that is grown exclusively in the Palisade region. |
| The pie has won numerous awards for its flavor and quality, including being named one of the top 10 peaches in the country by the United States Department of Agriculture. |
What is the official state pie of Colorado?
The official state pie of Colorado is the peach pie, but more specifically, it is the peach pie made with Palisade peaches. This designation was made official in 2010, recognizing the importance of peaches in Colorado’s agricultural industry.
Palisade peaches are renowned for their sweetness and flavor, making them the perfect ingredient for a delicious pie. The combination of the juicy peaches, flaky crust, and hint of cinnamon creates a truly delightful dessert that showcases the best of Colorado’s produce.
Where can I find Palisade peaches in Colorado?
Palisade peaches are grown in the western part of Colorado, specifically in the town of Palisade. The area’s unique climate and soil conditions make it an ideal location for peach cultivation. Visitors can find Palisade peaches at local farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and orchards during the peak season, which typically runs from July to September.
In addition to visiting Palisade, many grocery stores and markets throughout Colorado carry Palisade peaches during the peak season. Some farms also offer pick-your-own peach options, allowing visitors to experience the thrill of harvesting their own peaches.
What makes Palisade peaches so special?
Palisade peaches are known for their exceptional sweetness and flavor, which is attributed to the unique combination of climate, soil, and water in the Palisade area. The region’s high altitude, low humidity, and abundant sunshine create a perfect environment for peach cultivation.
The peaches are also carefully hand-picked and handled to ensure the highest quality. Many Palisade peach farmers are third- or fourth-generation growers, and they take great pride in their craft. The result is a truly exceptional peach that is sought after by chefs, bakers, and consumers alike.
Can I make a Palisade peach pie at home?
Yes, you can make a delicious Palisade peach pie at home using fresh or frozen Palisade peaches. The key to a great pie is using high-quality ingredients, including the peaches, and following a tried-and-true recipe.
To make a traditional Palisade peach pie, you’ll need a flaky crust, a mixture of sliced peaches, sugar, flour, and spices, and a crumbly topping. You can find many recipes online or in cookbooks that feature Palisade peaches. Don’t be afraid to experiment and add your own twist to the classic recipe.
Are there any festivals or events celebrating Palisade peaches?
Yes, there are several festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate Palisade peaches. The most popular event is the Palisade Peach Festival, which takes place in August. The festival features live music, peach-themed activities, and plenty of peach-based treats.
In addition to the Peach Festival, many local farms and orchards host their own events, such as peach harvest festivals, farm-to-table dinners, and pick-your-own peach days. These events offer a great opportunity to experience the best of Palisade peaches and connect with the local community.
Can I buy Palisade peach pie at a store or bakery?
Yes, many bakeries, cafes, and stores throughout Colorado carry Palisade peach pie, especially during the peak season. You can also find frozen or pre-made pie crusts and peach fillings at some grocery stores.
If you’re looking for a truly authentic experience, consider visiting a local bakery or cafe in Palisade or the surrounding area. Many of these establishments offer freshly baked pies made with locally sourced ingredients, including Palisade peaches.
How do I store and handle Palisade peaches?
To keep Palisade peaches fresh, store them at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Once they’re ripe, you can store them in the refrigerator to prolong their freshness.
When handling Palisade peaches, be gentle to avoid bruising the fruit. Wash the peaches just before using them, and pat them dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture. This will help prevent spoilage and ensure the peaches stay fresh for a longer period.