Ah, cherry pie! There’s just something about it that feels like home, don’t you think? The moment you slice into that flaky crust and see the vibrant red cherry filling bubbling up, it’s like a warm hug for your taste buds. I remember the first time I helped my grandma make this classic dessert. We’d pick fresh cherries from the tree in her backyard, laughing and chatting as we pitted them together. The smell of the pie baking in the oven was pure magic. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like that sweet, tangy flavor combined with the buttery crust. It brings back such fond memories and makes every bite feel special. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy night in, cherry pie is always a crowd-pleaser. So, let’s dive into how to create this delightful dessert that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients for Cherry Pie
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted (you can also use frozen if fresh aren’t available)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust depending on the sweetness of your cherries)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (this helps thicken the filling)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (adds a nice brightness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for that lovely depth of flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (this is my secret weapon for enhancing cherry flavor)
- 1 tablespoon butter (cut into small pieces to dot on top of the filling)
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade, your choice!)
How to Prepare Cherry Pie
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your pie crust gets all nice and golden when it bakes, which is just what we want! While that’s heating up, grab a large bowl and toss in your pitted cherries. Add the sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Give it a good stir until everything is nicely combined. The sugar will start to draw out those lovely cherry juices, and the cornstarch will help thicken it all up during baking. Let that sit for a few minutes while you prepare the crust.
Assemble the Pie
Now, it’s time to assemble! Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a pie dish, making sure it covers the bottom and sides. Pour that gorgeous cherry mixture into the crust, spreading it out evenly. Don’t forget to dot it with small pieces of butter on top; it adds a lovely richness to the filling. If you have another pie crust, you can either cover it all or get fancy with a lattice top—just make sure to cut some slits in the crust for steam to escape. This step is crucial, or you might end up with a pie explosion in your oven!
Bake the Cherry Pie
Slide that beauty into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the filling is bubbling and the crust is a gorgeous golden brown. Keep an eye on it, as ovens can vary. Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This cooling time is important—it allows the filling to set up a bit so you don’t end up with a soupy slice. Trust me, you want all that deliciousness held together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic flavor that evokes nostalgia with every bite
- Simple preparation, perfect for beginner bakers
- Fresh cherries create a vibrant, sweet filling
- Flaky crust that’s simply irresistible
- Homemade goodness that’s sure to impress family and friends
Tips for Success
To make sure your cherry pie turns out perfectly, here are some of my top tips! First, don’t skip the cornstarch—it’s key for thickening the filling and preventing a soggy bottom. If your cherries are particularly sweet, feel free to reduce the sugar a bit; it’s all about balancing those flavors! And when rolling out your crust, keep it floured to avoid sticking. Also, be patient with the cooling time; letting the pie set will ensure those beautiful slices hold their shape. Lastly, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat!
Variations on Cherry Pie
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix things up with your cherry pie! For a classic twist, try adding a bit of almond extract to the filling—it really enhances that cherry flavor. You could also mix in some blueberries or raspberries for a delightful berry medley! If you love a bit of spice, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm, cozy vibe. Don’t forget about chocolate lovers; a layer of chocolate ganache underneath the cherries will elevate your pie to a whole new level. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!
Nutritional Information for Cherry Pie
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values for a slice of cherry pie. Keep in mind these are estimates, but they’ll give you a good idea of what to expect:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Sugar: 18g
Enjoy in moderation and savor every delightful bite!
Serving Suggestions
Cherry pie shines on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream takes it to the next level! You can even drizzle some chocolate sauce or caramel over the top for an extra indulgent treat. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
FAQ About Cherry Pie
Can I use frozen cherries?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work great in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mixing them into the filling.
What can I do if my pie crust is too soggy?
If you notice a soggy bottom, try pre-baking the crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This helps set the crust and keeps it crisp!
How do I know when my cherry pie is done?
Look for a bubbly filling and a golden-brown crust. If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil to prevent burning while the filling cooks.
Can I make this pie in advance?
Yes! Just bake it, let it cool, and then cover it tightly. It keeps well in the fridge for a few days, but I recommend enjoying it fresh for the best taste.
What’s the best way to store leftover cherry pie?
Keep it covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Just remember to warm it slightly before serving for that fresh-baked feel!
Cherry Pie: 5 Irresistible Tips for a Perfectly Sweet Treat
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic dessert featuring a flaky crust and sweet cherry filling.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla, and almond extract.
- Pour the cherry mixture into the pie crust.
- Dots butter on top of the filling.
- Cover with another pie crust or make a lattice top.
- Cut slits in the crust for steam to escape.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until the filling is bubbly and crust is golden.
- Cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.
- Use frozen cherries if fresh are not available.
- Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of cherries.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: cherry pie, dessert, baking, fruit pie
