Cherry pie has always held a special place in my heart, evoking memories of summer afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. The sweet aroma of ripe cherries mingling with the buttery scent of a flaky crust is simply irresistible. As I roll out the dough, I can almost hear her laughter, reminding me that cooking is not just about the food, but the love and stories we share. This cherry pie recipe is a celebration of those moments, perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant filling and golden crust, it’s a dessert that brings joy to the table and warmth to the soul. Let’s dive into the delightful world of cherry pie!
What is Cherry Pie?
Cherry pie is a classic American dessert that has roots tracing back to early colonial times. This delightful treat features a flaky crust filled with sweet, juicy cherries, often enhanced with a hint of almond or vanilla. The combination of tart and sweet flavors creates a symphony of taste that has made cherry pie a beloved staple in many households. Globally, variations of cherry pie can be found, showcasing the fruit’s versatility and universal appeal. Whether enjoyed at summer picnics or holiday gatherings, cherry pie embodies comfort and nostalgia, making it a cherished dessert across cultures.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pie
- **Convenient**: Quick to prepare with simple ingredients, perfect for busy weeknights.
- **Delicious Taste**: The balance of sweet and tart cherries creates a mouthwatering flavor.
- **Health Benefits**: Cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making this dessert a guilt-free indulgence.
- **Family Appeal**: A crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together, making it ideal for family gatherings.
Who It’s For
This cherry pie is perfect for busy families looking for a quick yet satisfying dessert, health-conscious cooks who appreciate the nutritional benefits of cherries, and food lovers who enjoy classic recipes with a twist. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned chef, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.
When to Cook It
Cherry pie is versatile enough for any occasion! Bake it for weeknight dinners, serve it at birthday parties, or bring it to potlucks and holiday celebrations. It’s also a fantastic way to celebrate cherry season, making it a seasonal favorite that can brighten any table.
How to Make the Perfect Cherry Pie
Ingredients
- **2 cups fresh or frozen cherries**: The star of the pie, providing that sweet and tart flavor.
- **1 cup granulated sugar**: Sweetens the filling; adjust to taste for a sweeter pie.
- **2 tablespoons cornstarch**: Thickens the cherry filling, ensuring it holds together.
- **1 tablespoon lemon juice**: Adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cherries.
- **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**: Enhances the overall flavor profile with warmth.
- **1/4 teaspoon almond extract**: A subtle hint of nuttiness that complements the cherries.
- **1 tablespoon butter**: Adds richness and flavor when dotted on top of the filling.
- **1 package pie crusts (2 crusts)**: Store-bought for convenience, or homemade for a personal touch. You can substitute with gluten-free crusts if needed.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures a perfectly baked crust.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Stir gently until the cherries are well coated.
- Prepare the crust: Roll out one pie crust and place it in a pie dish, pressing it gently into the edges.
- Fill the pie: Pour the cherry mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter for added richness.
- Top it off: Cover with the second pie crust, sealing the edges by crimping them together. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Cool and serve: Let the pie cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set up nicely.
For People with Diabetes: Sugar Substitutes
- **Stevia**: A natural sweetener with zero calories, perfect for reducing sugar intake.
- **Monk fruit**: Another natural option that provides sweetness without affecting blood sugar levels.
- **Allulose**: A low-calorie sugar that mimics the taste and texture of sugar without the calories.
- **Avoid honey or maple syrup**: These can spike blood sugar levels and are not recommended as substitutes.
Tools You’ll Need
- 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife or pastry cutter
- Oven mitts
- Cooling rack
Top Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- **Use Fresh Cherries**: Chef Alice Waters emphasizes the importance of using fresh, in-season cherries for the best flavor. If using frozen, ensure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
- **Chill Your Dough**: Renowned pastry chef Jacques Torres suggests chilling your pie crust for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This helps maintain a flaky texture during baking.
- **Add a Pinch of Salt**: Chef Thomas Keller recommends adding a pinch of salt to your cherry filling. It enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors beautifully.
- **Egg Wash for Shine**: For a golden, glossy crust, brush the top with an egg wash (a beaten egg mixed with a splash of water) before baking, as suggested by Chef Ina Garten.
- **Let It Rest**: Chef Julia Child advises letting your pie cool completely before slicing. This allows the filling to set, preventing a runny mess when serving.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- **Refrigerator**: Store leftover cherry pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- **Freezer**: For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
- **Reheating**: To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- **Microwave Option**: For a quick option, microwave individual slices for 30-60 seconds, but be cautious as this may soften the crust.
- **Serving Tip**: Enjoy reheated pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- **Overfilling the Pie**: Adding too many cherries can cause the filling to overflow during baking. Stick to the recommended amount for a perfect balance.
- **Not Chilling the Dough**: Skipping the chilling step can lead to a tough crust. Chilling helps the fat solidify, resulting in a flaky texture.
- **Using Unripened Cherries**: Using sour or underripe cherries can lead to a tart pie. Always choose ripe, sweet cherries for the best flavor.
- **Ignoring the Cooling Time**: Cutting into the pie too soon can result in a runny filling. Allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes to set properly.
- **Neglecting to Vent the Crust**: Failing to cut slits in the top crust can trap steam, causing the pie to bubble over. Always make sure to vent for even baking.
FAQs About Cherry Pie
Q: Can I use frozen cherries for cherry pie?
Yes, frozen cherries work well in this cherry pie recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before use to avoid excess moisture.
Q: Is cherry pie healthy?
It depends on your perspective. While cherry pie contains sugar and fat, cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making it a more nutritious dessert option compared to many others.
Q: Can I make cherry pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare cherry pie a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving for the best taste.
Q: Does cherry pie need to be refrigerated?
Yes, leftover cherry pie should be refrigerated to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
Q: Can I substitute other fruits in this cherry pie recipe?
Yes, you can substitute other fruits like blueberries or raspberries, but keep in mind that the flavor and sweetness may vary.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Cherry Pie
Cherry pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of nostalgia that brings families together and creates lasting memories. I hope this recipe inspires you to bake your own cherry pie and share it with loved ones. If you try it, please leave a comment below to let me know how it turned out, or share your favorite cherry pie memories! Happy baking!
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Cherry Pie
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic cherry pie recipe that is perfect for any occasion, featuring a flaky crust and sweet cherry filling.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 package pie crusts (2 crusts)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- Roll out one pie crust and place it in a pie dish.
- Pour the cherry mixture into the crust and dot with butter.
- Cover with the second pie crust, seal the edges, and cut slits in the top for steam to escape.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- For a sweeter pie, adjust the sugar to taste.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 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: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Cherry Pie, Homemade Dessert