There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about a slice of cherry pie-its flaky golden crust encasing a vibrant, ruby-red filling that bursts with sweet-tart flavor. whether enjoyed warm from the oven or chilled to perfection, this classic dessert has long held a cherished spot at family gatherings, holiday feasts, and summer picnics alike. In this article, we’ll guide you through a flavorful cherry pie recipe that honors tradition while inviting you to savor every delightful bite. From selecting the juiciest cherries to crafting the perfect buttery crust, prepare to embark on a baking journey that transforms simple ingredients into a timeless treat everyone will love.
Delicious Cherry Pie Recipe is a timeless favorite that brings the vibrant flavors of fresh cherries to your table, wrapped in a golden, flaky crust that melts in your mouth.This dessert has been cherished across generations, often evoking warm family gatherings and nostalgic moments. Whether you’re baking for a festive occasion or simply craving a slice of sweet and tart perfection, mastering these techniques will guarantee an unforgettable cherry pie experience.
Prep and Cook Time
Preparation: 30 minutes
Cooking: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield
Makes 8 generous servings
Difficulty Level
Medium – perfect for home bakers ready to hone their rolling and layering skills.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups fresh tart cherries, pitted (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 batch flaky pie crust (see below)
Flaky Pie Crust
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 6-8 tbsp ice water
Choosing the Perfect Cherries for an Irresistible Flavor
Opt for tart cherries, such as Montmorency or Morello varieties, which naturally balance their luminous acidity with sweetness.Fresh cherries yield the best texture and juiciness, but if unavailable, high-quality frozen cherries are a fantastic substitute-just ensure they’re fully thawed and drained well to prevent a soggy crust.Always taste before baking: the ideal cherry pie filling harmonizes a lively tartness that awakens the palate, complemented by a touch of sugar and almond essence.
Mastering the Art of the Flaky Pie Crust
A perfectly flaky crust is the foundation of any standout cherry pie. Keep ingredients cold-especially the butter and water-to create crisp layers that puff delightfully during baking. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work butter into the flour until mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter still visible. This contrast is key to creating flakiness. Chill your dough thoroughly before rolling it out on a lightly floured surface, and avoid overworking it to maintain tenderness. For a golden top, brush your crust with an egg wash and sprinkle with fine sugar before baking.
Tips for Achieving the Ideal Sweet and Tart Balance
Balance is everything when it comes to cherry pie filling.Start by sweetening your cherries incrementally, tasting as you go to avoid overpowering their natural brightness.Adding a touch of lemon juice not only enhances tartness but prevents browning, keeping your filling vibrant in color. stir cornstarch in gradually to thicken the juices without making the filling gummy. The hint of almond extract rounds out the flavor, lending a warm, nutty accent that makes every bite irresistible. Remember,if cherries are extra sweet,reduce sugar slightly; if very tart,a bit more sugar can soften the edge without masking the fruit’s character.
Creative Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Cherry Pie Experience
Serve your cherry pie warm,straight from the oven,paired with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to highlight the contrast of temperature and texture. For added elegance, garnish with freshly chopped mint or a dusting of powdered sugar. A drizzle of homemade whipped cream flavored with a touch of cinnamon or amaretto transforms this classic into a gourmet dessert. Experiment with plating by adding toasted almond slices or a side of crème fraîche to balance the tartness. Whether enjoyed with family or guests, these thoughtful touches will turn your Delicious Cherry Pie recipe into a celebratory centerpiece.
Instructions
- Prepare the pie crust: in a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized butter pieces. Gradually add ice water, 1 tbsp at a time, stirring with a fork until dough just comes together. Divide dough into two disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare cherry filling: In a large bowl, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, almond extract, and cinnamon. Toss gently and set aside.
- Roll out bottom crust: On a floured surface, roll one dough disk into a 12-inch circle and transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish. Trim excess dough, leaving 1 inch overhang.
- Fill the crust: Pour cherry filling into the crust,distributing evenly. dot filling with butter pieces for extra richness.
- Roll out top crust: Roll the second dough disk into a 12-inch circle. For a classic look, cut slits or create a lattice pattern. Carefully place over filling, fold edges under, and crimp to seal.
- Egg wash and sugar: Brush the crust lightly with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar for a glossy,sparkling finish.
- Bake pie: Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes. Reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake another 35-40 minutes until crust is golden brown and filling bubbles.
- Cool: Allow pie to cool completely on a wire rack to set filling before slicing.
Chef’s Notes and Tips for Success
- Make-ahead: Dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 48 hours or frozen for 1 month. thaw in fridge before rolling.
- Prevent soggy bottoms: Blind bake the bottom crust for 8 minutes before adding filling if your cherries are very juicy.
- Sweetener variations: Swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar or honey (reduce quantity slightly) for a deeper flavor profile.
- Gluten-free: Use a certified gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour, adjusting liquid slightly for dough consistency.
- Storage: Cover cooled pie loosely with foil and store at room temperature up to 2 days, or refrigerate up to 4 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a generous scoop of classic vanilla bean ice cream for a luscious contrast.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream infused with vanilla or cinnamon.
- Sprinkle toasted almonds or pistachios atop for an added crunch and nutty aroma.
- Accompany with a small bowl of crème fraîche or mascarpone cheese for a smooth, tangy complement.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cherry Pie slice | 340 | 3g | 48g | 14g |
For further guidance on cherry selection and pie baking techniques, visit the U.S. Cherry Industry, a trusted authority on cherry varieties and recipes.Also, be sure to check our All-American Apple Pie Recipe for more classic American dessert inspiration.
Q&A
Q&A: Delicious Cherry Pie Recipe - A Classic Treat to Savor
Q1: What makes cherry pie a classic dessert that never goes out of style?
A: Cherry pie captures the perfect harmony of sweet and tart, wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust that’s comfort in every bite. Its timeless appeal lies in simple, wholesome ingredients that evoke nostalgia-reminding us of cozy family gatherings and seasonal celebrations.
Q2: Can you share the key ingredients that bring this cherry pie to life?
A: Absolutely! The magic starts with ripe, juicy cherries-fresh or frozen-paired with sugar, a hint of almond extract for depth, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and a touch of lemon juice to brighten the flavor. All this joy is nestled in a golden, tender pie crust, preferably homemade.
Q3: What tips do you have for making the perfect pie crust?
A: The crust is the unsung hero! Use cold butter or shortening and ice-cold water to keep the dough flaky and tender. Avoid overworking the dough to prevent toughness. Chill it well before rolling out, and use a light dusting of flour to avoid sticking. For extra flair, brush the top with an egg wash for that golden shine.
Q4: How do you avoid a soggy cherry pie filling?
A: the key is managing fruit juices.Toss the cherries with sugar and a bit of cornstarch or tapioca starch-this thickens the liquid as the pie bakes. Also, consider baking the filling for a few minutes before adding the top crust or lattice. Proper venting through slits or lattice allows steam to escape, keeping the crust crisp.
Q5: Can I add a modern twist to this classic cherry pie?
A: Definitely! Incorporate a crumb topping for texture, blend cherries with other berries like blueberries or blackberries, or swirl in some cream cheese for richness. A sprinkle of dark chocolate chips or a dash of almond liqueur can also add an exciting depth of flavor.Q6: What’s the best way to serve cherry pie?
A: Serve it warm or at room temperature, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The creamy contrast heightens the luscious cherry filling, creating a sensory experience that’s simply unforgettable.
Q7: any advice for storing leftover cherry pie?
A: Store it covered at room temperature if you plan to enjoy it within a day. For longer keeping, refrigerate wrapped tightly-best eaten within 3 days. To revive that just-baked warmth, gently reheat in the oven before serving.
savoring a slice of cherry pie is more than dessert-it’s a party of tradition,flavor,and simple pleasures.This recipe invites you to bake memories and bliss, one delicious bite at a time.
Wrapping Up
Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this classic cherry pie recipe promises a delicious journey into sweet, tangy bliss. Its perfectly flaky crust and luscious filling celebrate the simple pleasures of homemade baking, inviting you to savor every bite and share the joy with loved ones. So next time you’re craving a timeless treat, let this cherry pie be your go-to masterpiece-proof that sometimes, the classics truly are the best.
