This cherry pie recipe is simply The BEST Cherry Pie you’ll ever make! With a sweet and juicy cherry filling that can be prepared using fresh or frozen cherries, this pie is a delightful treat for any occasion. The flaky and buttery crust is perfectly complemented by a golden brown finish, thanks to a light egg wash. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just indulging in a sweet craving, this cherry pie is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor – The combination of sweet cherries and buttery crust creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
- Easy to Make – With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can create this stunning dessert with ease.
- Versatile Ingredient Options – Use fresh or frozen cherries based on what’s available, making this recipe adaptable year-round.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a summer picnic or a holiday gathering, this cherry pie fits right in.
- Stunning Presentation – The beautiful golden crust and vibrant filling make for an eye-catching dessert that will wow your guests.
Tools and Preparation
To achieve the perfect cherry pie, having the right tools is essential. Below are some must-have items to simplify the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Pie dish – A good quality pie dish ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crust texture.
- Rolling pin – This essential tool allows you to roll out the dough evenly for a uniform crust.
- Mixing bowls – Having multiple sizes of mixing bowls makes it easier to prepare your filling and dough without mess.
Ingredients
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: Prepare the Filling
Start by preparing your cherry filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
1. Add 6 cups of pitted and halved cherries.
2. Mix in ⅔ cup of granulated sugar, ⅓ cup of cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, salt, and almond extract if using.
3. Toss everything together until well combined. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Make the Pie Crust
For the flaky pie crust:
1. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Cut in the cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice-cold water until the dough comes together.
4. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Once chilled:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface until it fits your pie dish.
3. Place it in the dish and fill with the cherry mixture. Dot with unsalted butter.
4. Roll out the second disc of dough for the top crust. You can create lattice or simply cover it whole; cut slits for steam to escape if covering whole.
Step 4: Bake
Before baking:
1. Brush the top crust with a mixture of beaten egg and milk for shine.
2. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
3. Place on a baking sheet and bake for about 65 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
This recipe guarantees you get The BEST Cherry Pie, perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself! Enjoy every delicious slice!
How to Serve The BEST Cherry Pie
Serving The BEST Cherry Pie is about enhancing its delightful flavors and textures. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dessert.
A La Mode
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing that adds creaminess to the sweet cherries.
Whipped Cream
- Top each slice with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy complement to the pie’s richness.
Warm with Custard
- Drizzle warm custard sauce over the pie for an indulgent treat that pairs beautifully with the tart cherries.
Cheese Platter
- Pair slices of cherry pie with sharp cheddar cheese. The contrast of flavors is a delightful surprise!
Coffee or Tea
- Offer slices alongside a cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of these drinks balances the sweetness of the pie.
How to Perfect The BEST Cherry Pie
Perfecting The BEST Cherry Pie requires attention to detail and a few handy tips. Consider these ideas to elevate your pie-making skills.
- Use Fresh Cherries: When in season, fresh cherries provide the best flavor and texture for your filling.
- Adjust Sugar: Depending on the sweetness of your cherries, you might want to adjust the sugar level in your filling.
- Chill Your Dough: Keep your pie crust ingredients cold. This helps create that flaky texture everyone loves.
- Egg Wash Brilliance: Brush the crust with egg wash before baking. This gives it a beautiful golden color and shine.
- Let It Cool: Allow your pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set up nicely for clean slices.
Best Side Dishes for The BEST Cherry Pie
Pairing side dishes with The BEST Cherry Pie can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice; its creamy texture complements the tartness of cherry perfectly.
- Cheesecake Bites: These sweet bites provide a rich counterpoint to the fruity pie.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can balance out the sweetness of the pie.
- Pecan Crumble Topping: Serve some pecan crumble on top for added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A drizzle of chocolate sauce can add a luxurious touch to each slice.
- Grilled Peaches: Grilled peaches add a warm, caramelized flavor that pairs well with cherry pie.
- Savory Scones: Cheddar or herb scones offer a savory contrast that works surprisingly well after dessert.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: Refreshing sparkling water aids digestion while providing a zesty twist alongside sweet treats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making The BEST Cherry Pie can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can ruin your pie. Here’s what to avoid:
- Using Overripe Cherries: Overripe cherries can lead to a mushy filling. Choose firm, sweet cherries for the best flavor and texture.
- Skipping the Egg Wash: Not brushing the crust with egg wash means missing out on that beautiful golden color. Always apply an egg wash before baking for a shiny finish.
- Not Prepping the Crust Properly: A poorly prepared crust can turn tough. Make sure you handle the dough gently and chill it properly before rolling.
- Ignoring Thickeners: Forgetting to add cornstarch or flour can lead to a soupy filling. Measure carefully to ensure the right consistency.
- Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Baking your pie at too low of a temperature can result in soggy crusts. Always preheat your oven and bake at the recommended temperature.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep covered with plastic wrap or foil if not using a container.
Freezing The BEST Cherry Pie
- Freeze whole or slice it into portions.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
Reheating The BEST Cherry Pie
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making The BEST Cherry Pie:
Can I use frozen cherries for The BEST Cherry Pie?
Yes, frozen cherries work well! Just thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using.
How do I know when my cherry pie is done?
Look for a bubbly filling and a golden brown crust. A thermometer should read around 200°F (93°C) in the center.
Can I substitute other fruits in this cherry pie recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix cherries with blueberries or raspberries for a delightful twist.
How do I prevent my crust from getting soggy?
To avoid sogginess, blind bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
What is the best way to serve The BEST Cherry Pie?
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an irresistible treat!
Final Thoughts
This recipe is truly The BEST Cherry Pie, perfect for any occasion. Its sweet and juicy filling combined with flaky crust makes it irresistible. Feel free to customize by adding spices or mixing different fruits. Try it out; you won’t be disappointed!
The BEST Cherry Pie
Indulge in the sweetness of homemade cherry pie with our recipe for The BEST Cherry Pie. This delightful dessert features a luscious filling made from sweet cherries, nestled in a flaky, buttery crust that’s beautifully golden brown. Whether you opt for fresh or frozen cherries, this pie is versatile enough for any occasion—from summer picnics to holiday celebrations. With simple instructions and accessible ingredients, even novice bakers can impress friends and family with their baking skills. Get ready to savor every bite of this nostalgic treat!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 6 cups sweet cherries (pitted and halved)
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
- 7 tablespoons ice-cold water
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional: almond extract and coarse sugar for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the cherry filling by mixing pitted cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and optional almond extract in a bowl. Let sit for 15 minutes.
- To make the crust, whisk flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Gradually add ice-cold water to form dough. Chill for at least one hour.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out dough and fit into a pie dish. Fill with cherry mixture and dot with butter. Cover with top crust.
- Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired. Bake for about 65 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (118g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
