Detailed Cooking Instructions:
Follow these steps for a foolproof dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat:
Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Crust Formation:
In a large bowl, mix the dry cake mix, softened butter, and one egg until the mixture is crumbly.
Reserve 1 1/2 cups of this mixture for the topping.
Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
Bake for 10 minutes to set the crust.
Prepare the Filling:
Chop the drained peach slices into 1-inch pieces; set aside.
Creamy Layer:
In another large bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with sugar, the remaining egg, and vanilla extract using a mixer until creamy.
Assemble the Pie:
Evenly distribute the chopped peaches over the pre-baked crust.
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the peaches and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the reserved crumbly mixture on top.
Bake:
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes at room temperature to help the flavors meld.
Refrigerate any leftovers to maintain freshness.
Recipe Tips and Variations:
Add Some Zest: Enhance the cream cheese mixture with a teaspoon of lemon zest for a refreshing twist.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or almonds to the topping for extra texture and flavor.
Fruit Variations: Feel free to substitute peaches with other fruits like blueberries, cherries, or even a mix for a different take on this delightful dessert.
Serve with Style: Accompany each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.