This recipe for The BEST Cherry Pie is a delightful treat that shines at any gathering, from summer picnics to holiday feasts. With its sweet and juicy cherry filling, this pie is sure to impress your family and friends. The flaky, buttery crust adds the perfect texture, while an egg wash gives it a beautiful golden finish. Whether you use fresh or frozen cherries, this recipe is adaptable and guarantees a scrumptious dessert every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This cherry pie comes together quickly with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Versatile Filling: Use fresh, frozen, or even canned cherries for a delicious filling that suits your pantry.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy family dinner, this pie will be the star of the table.
- Flaky Crust: The buttery crust is not only tasty but also easy to handle for both beginners and experienced bakers.
- Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to enhance the experience.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making The BEST Cherry Pie, gather all necessary tools to streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor (or large bowl)
- Rolling pin
- 9-inch deep dish pie pan
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pastry cutter (optional)
- Brush for egg wash
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: Speeds up mixing the dough for a perfectly combined crust without overworking it.
- Rolling pin: Ensures an even thickness when rolling out the dough for a consistent bake.
- Pie pan: A deep dish pan holds more filling, allowing you to pack in those juicy cherries.
Ingredients
- 6 cups sweet cherries (2 pounds, pitted and halved)
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for dotting on the filling)
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
- 7 tablespoons ice-cold water
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Coarse sugar or granulated sugar (for sprinkling, optional)
How to Make The BEST Cherry Pie
Step 1: Make the Cherry Filling
- Place the pitted, halved cherries in a large bowl.
- Add the granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, salt, and almond extract (if using).
- Stir to combine until you no longer see any white cornstarch. Set aside while you prepare the crust. This resting phase allows the cherries to release their juices.
Step 2: Make the Pie Crust
- Place the flour, sugar, and salt in a food processor fitted with a steel blade. Alternatively, use a large bowl with a pastry cutter.
- Pulse to combine the dry ingredients.
- Add cold butter cubes and pulse 8 to 10 times until pieces are pea-sized.
- Add ice-cold water and pulse just until dough begins to come together; it may be slightly crumbly.
- Transfer dough onto a floured surface; form into a ball. Cut in half to shape each half into disks. Wrap one disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate.
- Roll out the second disk into a 12-inch round; transfer it to your pie dish.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Stir the cherry mixture again to ensure even distribution of juices before pouring it into the prepared pie crust.
- Dot small cubes of butter over the top of the cherry filling.
- Roll out the remaining dough disk into another round for topping or cut it into strips for a lattice design as desired.
- Trim excess crust hanging over edges and crimp as desired.
Step 4: Brush with Egg Wash & Bake
- Beat egg and milk together in a small bowl; lightly brush over crust top.
- Optionally sprinkle coarse sugar on top before chilling in refrigerator for about 20 minutes while preheating oven at 400° F.
- Bake in lower third of oven at 400° F for initial 20 minutes; reduce temperature to 350° F and bake an additional 40–50 minutes until filling bubbles vigorously.
- Allow pie to cool at room temperature for at least three hours before serving so that filling can thicken properly.
Enjoy your homemade slice of The BEST Cherry Pie, perfect with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream!
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How to Serve The BEST Cherry Pie
Serving cherry pie is an art, and there are many delightful ways to enjoy this classic dessert. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your cherry pie experience.
Pair with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the tartness of the cherries.
- Chocolate Ice Cream: For a rich twist, try pairing it with chocolate ice cream for a decadent treat.
Add Whipped Cream
- Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that balances the pie’s richness.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or almond extract to your whipped cream for an extra flavor boost.
Serve with Custard or Sauce
- Vanilla Custard: Pour warm vanilla custard over each slice for a comforting touch.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce on top for a sweet and indulgent combination.
Enjoy with Coffee or Tea
- Brewed Coffee: A cup of hot coffee enhances the sweet flavors of the pie and provides a nice contrast.
- Herbal Tea: A light herbal tea can cleanse the palate and add a refreshing element to your dessert.
How to Perfect The BEST Cherry Pie
To make sure your cherry pie turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Use fresh cherries: Whenever possible, opt for fresh cherries over frozen. They provide better flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip the egg wash: Brushing the crust with an egg wash gives it a beautiful golden color and shiny finish.
- Chill your dough: Keeping your dough cold helps achieve that flaky texture we all love in pies.
- Let it cool: After baking, allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set properly.
- Experiment with spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile of your cherry filling.
- Cover edges if necessary: If the crust is browning too quickly, use foil to protect the edges during baking.
Best Side Dishes for The BEST Cherry Pie
Pairing side dishes with cherry pie can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider when serving this delicious dessert.
- Cheese Plate: Offer a selection of cheeses like brie or cheddar that complement the sweetness of the pie.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad provides a light contrast to the richness of the pie, enhancing its overall appeal.
- Salad Greens: A simple mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch alongside dessert.
- Chocolate Mousse: A small serving of chocolate mousse brings in another layer of flavor and indulgence.
- Pecan Pie Bars: For those who love variety, serve pecan pie bars as an additional sweet option.
- Mini Quiches: Savory mini quiches offer a delightful contrast to sweet cherry pie, making for an interesting combination.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making The BEST Cherry Pie can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your efforts. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
-
Using unripe cherries: Always select sweet, ripe cherries for the best flavor. Taste a cherry before using it to ensure it’s sweet enough.
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Not letting the filling rest: Allowing the cherry filling to sit helps release juices and ensures a thicker filling. Skipping this step can lead to runny pie.
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Overworking the dough: When making the pie crust, handle the dough as little as possible. Overworking can make it tough instead of flaky.
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Neglecting to chill the pie: Chilling the assembled pie before baking helps maintain its shape. Don’t skip this; it prevents a soggy bottom crust.
-
Ignoring baking times: Pay attention to the baking time and temperature. If you don’t bake long enough, the filling may not thicken properly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store leftover pie in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap.
- item The pie will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing The BEST Cherry Pie
- item Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- item It can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating The BEST Cherry Pie
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds, checking often.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes The BEST Cherry Pie so special?
The combination of sweet cherries and a buttery, flaky crust creates a delightful dessert that is both comforting and delicious. Using fresh or frozen cherries enhances its versatility.
Can I use canned cherries for this cherry pie recipe?
Yes, you can use canned cherries! Just make sure to drain them thoroughly and adjust sugar levels based on their sweetness.
How do I know when my cherry pie is done baking?
Your pie is done when the filling is bubbly and thick, usually after baking at 400°F for the first 20 minutes followed by 350°F for an additional 40-50 minutes.
Can I customize the filling of The BEST Cherry Pie?
Absolutely! You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg or mix in other fruits such as blueberries or raspberries for an exciting twist.
What should I serve with my cherry pie?
Serving your cherry pie with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream adds a creamy contrast that’s simply irresistible!
Final Thoughts
The BEST Cherry Pie is not just about its delicious flavor; it’s also about its flexibility. You can use fresh, frozen, or even canned cherries depending on what you have available. This recipe allows room for creativity, inviting you to customize flavors or toppings as you wish. So gather your ingredients and give this delightful dessert a try—you won’t be disappointed!
The BEST Cherry Pie
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Discover the ultimate dessert with The BEST Cherry Pie, a delightful combination of sweet and juicy cherries nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. This pie is perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to holiday gatherings. With options to use fresh, frozen, or canned cherries, this adaptable recipe guarantees a scrumptious treat every time. Topped with an egg wash for a golden finish, and served with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream, this cherry pie is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 6 cups sweet cherries (2 pounds, pitted and halved)
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for dotting)
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
- 7 tablespoons ice-cold water
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, salt, and optional almond extract. Set aside.
- For the crust, pulse flour, sugar, and salt in a food processor. Add cold butter cubes until pea-sized. Gradually add ice-cold water until dough forms.
- Shape dough into disks and refrigerate one disk. Roll out the other into a circle for the base pie crust.
- Pour cherry filling into the crust and dot with butter. Roll out remaining dough for top crust; place over filling or create a lattice design.
- Brush with egg wash and bake at 400°F for the first 20 minutes; then reduce to 350°F for another 40–50 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (135g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
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