Ah, cherry pie! Just the thought of it brings back a wave of nostalgia, doesn’t it? I can almost smell that sweet, tart aroma wafting through the kitchen, filling every corner with warmth and comfort. It’s a classic dessert that’s been gracing our family gatherings for generations, and for good reason! I remember helping my grandmother pit cherries on long summer afternoons, the juice staining our fingers and laughter echoing around us. There’s something truly magical about that flaky crust cradling juicy cherries, and every bite feels like a warm hug. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual barbecue, this cherry pie always steals the show, and I can’t wait to share my simple recipe with you so you can create those same cherished memories in your own kitchen!
Ingredients for Cherry Pie
Gather these simple, fresh ingredients to create the most delightful cherry pie. Trust me, you’ll love the way they come together!
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted: Make sure to use ripe, juicy cherries for the best flavor. If you can’t find fresh, frozen cherries work too!
- 1 cup sugar: This adds the perfect sweetness to balance the tartness of the cherries. You can adjust this depending on how sweet your cherries are.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: This is the magic ingredient that thickens the cherry filling, ensuring it’s not too runny.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Just a splash of lemon juice brightens up the flavors and enhances that cherry goodness!
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla adds warmth and depth to the filling—don’t skip it!
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces: Doting the filling with butter makes it rich and luscious as it bakes.
- 1 package pie crusts (2 crusts): You can use store-bought or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. Either way, it’s the flaky crust that holds all this goodness together!
How to Prepare Cherry Pie
Now, let’s dive into the deliciousness of making this cherry pie! Follow these steps, and I promise it’ll be a breeze to whip up. You’ll be savoring that sweet-tart goodness in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is key for getting that crust nice and golden!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your fresh pitted cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Give it a gentle stir to coat the cherries evenly. You’ll want to let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes; this allows the juices to mingle and create that luscious filling.
- While that’s happening, roll out one of your pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; just make sure it fits snugly into your pie dish.
- Carefully pour the cherry mixture into the crust, making sure to scoop up all those lovely juices!
- Dot the filling with small pieces of butter. This is where the magic happens—trust me on this one!
- Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filled pie. Seal the edges by crimping them with your fingers or a fork. Then, cut a few slits in the top to let the steam escape. This helps avoid a messy overflow!
- Pop your pie into the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the crust is beautifully golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Keep an eye on it—every oven is a little different!
- Once it’s done, let it cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This waiting period helps the filling set up a bit more, making for easier serving.
Tips for Success
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your cherry pie turns out absolutely perfect! First up, always taste your cherries before you start. Some cherries can be sweeter than others, so adjust the sugar accordingly. If you find your cherries a bit tart, don’t be afraid to add a little extra sugar—just remember to keep it balanced!
Also, make sure to let your pie cool completely before slicing. I know it’s tempting to dive right in, but this cooling time helps the filling set, reducing that dreaded runniness. And if you want a picture-perfect pie, brush the top crust with a little egg wash before baking. It’ll give you that beautiful golden color and a lovely shine! Lastly, don’t skip the slits in the crust; they’re crucial for steam to escape and keep your pie from bubbling over. Trust me, these little tips will take your cherry pie to the next level!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying a slice of homemade cherry pie, it’s good to keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the ingredients and brands you use. So, while I’m sharing some estimated values with you, remember they might not be spot on for every pie you make!
- Calories: Approximately 250 per slice
- Fat: Around 10g
- Protein: About 2g
- Carbohydrates: Roughly 38g
These numbers give you a general idea, but always feel free to adjust depending on your ingredients. Enjoy every delicious bite without too much worry—cherry pie is all about the joy of baking and sharing with loved ones!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time: You can have this pie ready to bake in just about 20 minutes!
- Simple ingredients: It uses fresh cherries and pantry staples, making it easy to whip up.
- Delicious flavor: The combination of sweet and tart cherries with a flaky crust is simply irresistible.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a summer picnic, this cherry pie is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Great for making memories: Baking this pie can become a cherished tradition in your kitchen!
Serving Suggestions
Cherry pie is already a star on its own, but let’s take it up a notch! I absolutely love serving it warm, fresh out of the oven, with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream melting right on top. The creamy sweetness pairs perfectly with the tart cherries! Alternatively, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that’s simply delightful.
This classic dessert is perfect for any occasion, from festive holiday gatherings to summer barbecues. Trust me, no matter when you serve it, this cherry pie will be the highlight of your dessert table!
FAQ About Cherry Pie
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work just as well. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess juice before mixing them in to avoid a watery filling.
What can I substitute for sugar?
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use honey or maple syrup. Just remember to adjust the quantity since they’re sweeter than granulated sugar!
How should I store leftover cherry pie?
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months.
Can I make the pie crust from scratch?
Of course! Making your own pie crust can add a personal touch. Just follow a simple pie crust recipe, or if you’re short on time, store-bought crusts are perfectly fine!
How do I know when my pie is done baking?
Your cherry pie is ready when the crust is golden brown and you can see the filling bubbling through the slits on top. It should smell heavenly too!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your cherry pie fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay tasty for about 3-4 days—if it lasts that long! If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Just remember to label it with the date so you know when you made it!
When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. For a warm treat, pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will revive that flaky crust and warm up those lovely cherries! Enjoy every bite!
Print
Cherry Pie: 7 Irresistible Steps to Pure Nostalgia
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic cherry pie made with fresh cherries and a flaky crust.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 package pie crusts (2 crusts)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla.
- Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a pie dish.
- Pour the cherry mixture into the crust.
- Dot the filling with butter.
- Cover with the second crust, seal edges, and cut slits for steam.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
- Cool before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen cherries.
- Adjust sugar based on cherry sweetness.
- Serve with ice cream for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: cherry pie, dessert, baked goods
