This Simple Cherry Pie Filling is a delightful treat that brings the taste of summer to your table year-round. Perfect for various occasions, this filling can elevate homemade pies, enhance your morning yogurt, or even add a sweet touch to buttermilk pancakes. Its vibrant flavor and easy preparation make it a must-have recipe for any cherry lover.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this filling in no time.
- Versatile Use: Use it in pies, as a topping for desserts, or even as a flavorful addition to breakfast dishes.
- Fresh Ingredients: Made with real sweet cherries, ensuring a delicious and natural flavor without any artificial ingredients.
- Perfect Consistency: The combination of cornstarch and sugar gives this filling the ideal thickness for spreading and baking.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cherry pie! This filling is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making this simple cherry pie filling, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cherry pitter
- Large saucepan
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Cherry pitter: This tool saves time by quickly removing pits from cherries, making the preparation much easier.
- Large saucepan: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and prevents spills while mixing ingredients together.
- Mixing spoon: A sturdy spoon helps combine ingredients thoroughly, ensuring consistent flavor throughout the filling.
Ingredients
This simple cherry pie filling goes absolutely perfectly with homemade pie dough. You’ll love it over your morning yogurt or even over buttermilk pancakes.
For the Filling
- 6 cups sweet cherries, pitted
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Simple Cherry Pie Filling
Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
- Using a cherry pitter, pit 6 cups of sweet cherries into a bowl.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- Add the pitted cherries to a large saucepan.
- Include 3/4 cup water, 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Step 3: Cook the Filling
- Give everything a thorough mix.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
- Let it simmer for about 10 minutes while stirring frequently until thickened.
With just these simple steps, you’ll have delicious cherry pie filling ready to use! Enjoy it in various recipes or simply savor it on its own.
How to Serve Simple Cherry Pie Filling
This simple cherry pie filling is versatile and can enhance many dishes. Whether you’re looking for a sweet breakfast treat or a classic dessert, here are some delightful ways to serve it.
Over Ice Cream
- Scoop your favorite vanilla or chocolate ice cream and drizzle the warm cherry pie filling on top for an indulgent dessert.
On Pancakes
- Pour the cherry filling over fluffy buttermilk pancakes. It adds a fruity twist that elevates your breakfast.
With Yogurt
- Layer the cherry pie filling with Greek yogurt for a delicious and healthy snack. Top with granola for added crunch.
As a Tart Topping
- Use the filling as a topping for tarts or cheesecakes. It brings a burst of flavor and color to any dessert table.
In Parfaits
- Create a beautiful parfait by layering cherry filling, whipped cream, and crushed cookies in a glass. Perfect for brunch!
Spread on Toast
- Spread the cherry filling on toasted bread or bagels for a sweet morning treat. Add cream cheese for extra richness.
How to Perfect Simple Cherry Pie Filling
To achieve the best results with your simple cherry pie filling, consider these helpful tips.
Use Fresh Cherries: Fresh sweet cherries yield the best flavor. If using frozen, ensure they’re thawed and drained well.
Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the tartness of your cherries, you may want to adjust the sugar content to suit your taste.
Thickening Agent: Make sure to mix cornstarch thoroughly with sugar before adding it to prevent clumping in your filling.
Simmer Time: Allowing the mixture to simmer properly ensures that the flavors meld beautifully and thickens nicely.
Cool Before Use: Let the filling cool before placing it in your pie crust. This prevents a soggy bottom and keeps your pie crisp.
Best Side Dishes for Simple Cherry Pie Filling
Pairing side dishes with simple cherry pie filling can elevate any meal. Here’s a list of great options to complement its sweetness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture balances the tartness of cherries perfectly.
Buttermilk Pancakes: Soft pancakes serve as an ideal base, soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Greek Yogurt: A protein-packed option that pairs well with fruitiness while adding tang.
Cheesecake: The rich creaminess of cheesecake creates an excellent contrast with fruity cherry topping.
Oatmeal: Stirring in cherry pie filling can enhance your morning oatmeal for added sweetness and flavor.
Scones: Warm scones topped with cherry filling make for a delightful afternoon tea treat.
Crepes: Delicate crepes filled or topped with cherry pie filling offer elegance and taste in every bite.
Shortcake Biscuits: Serve warm biscuits topped with whipped cream and cherry filling for dessert perfection.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making simple cherry pie filling can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- flavoring: Not adding enough lemon juice can make the filling overly sweet. Ensure you balance flavors with the right amount of acidity.
- consistency: Overusing cornstarch might lead to a gummy texture. Stick to the recommended amount for the best results.
- cherries: Using underripe or overly ripe cherries can affect flavor and texture. Choose sweet, firm cherries for optimal taste.
- cooking time: Skipping the simmering step can result in an uncooked filling. Allow it to simmer for at least 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
- storage: Not using airtight containers can spoil your cherry pie filling quickly. Store it in well-sealed jars or containers.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezing Simple Cherry Pie Filling
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 6 months.
Reheating Simple Cherry Pie Filling
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat while stirring until heated, around 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about simple cherry pie filling.
What is Simple Cherry Pie Filling?
Simple cherry pie filling is a sweet mixture made from pitted cherries, sugar, and a thickening agent like cornstarch. It’s perfect for pies and desserts.
Can I use frozen cherries for Simple Cherry Pie Filling?
Yes, frozen cherries work well! Just thaw them first and drain excess liquid before cooking.
How do I know when my Simple Cherry Pie Filling is done?
Your filling should be thickened and bubbly after simmering for about 10 minutes. It should have a glossy appearance.
Can I customize my Simple Cherry Pie Filling?
Absolutely! You can mix in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg or add other fruits for a unique twist.
Final Thoughts
This simple cherry pie filling is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you use it over pancakes or as a pie filling, its delightful sweetness will satisfy your cravings. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or spices to make it your own!
Simple Cherry Pie Filling
Simple Cherry Pie Filling is a delightful way to bring the taste of summer into your kitchen any time of year. With its vibrant flavor and easy preparation, this filling is perfect for elevating homemade pies, enhancing breakfast dishes like pancakes and yogurt, or simply enjoying on its own. In just 20 minutes, you can create a luscious cherry sauce that everyone in the family will love. Made with fresh sweet cherries and natural ingredients, this recipe is a must-have for cherry enthusiasts. Whether you’re baking a pie or looking for a sweet topping for ice cream, this simple cherry pie filling is sure to satisfy your cravings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 6 cups sweet cherries, pitted
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Pit the sweet cherries using a cherry pitter and place them in a large bowl.
- In a large saucepan, combine the pitted cherries with water, lemon juice, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract.
- Mix thoroughly and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
