Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 0.5 cup (60g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 1 tsp (5g) lemon zest
- 2 cups (300g) fresh peaches, diced
- 1 tbsp (12g) cornstarch
- 1 tbsp (15ml) lemon juice
- 2 tbsp (25g) brown sugar
Instructions:
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x9 inch baking dish using the back of a spoon, ensuring edges are tightly packed.
- Place the crust in the freezer for 10 minutes to set.
- Beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until completely smooth and grit-free.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
- In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula, being careful not to over-mix.
- Spread half of the cream mixture over the chilled crust in an even layer.
- In a skillet over medium heat, combine diced peaches, brown sugar, and lemon juice.
- Whisk cornstarch with a small amount of liquid to create a slurry, stir it into the peaches, and simmer for approximately 6 minutes until thickened.
- Allow peaches to cool slightly, then layer them over the cream, top with the remaining cream mixture, and chill for 2 hours before serving.