Introduction to Cherry Pie Recipe
Baking a cherry pie from scratch evokes a wave of nostalgia, transporting you back to sunny afternoons spent in warm kitchens, where the allure of sweet fruit mingled with the comforting scent of freshly baked crust. This quintessential American dessert tells a story that transcends generations, celebrating the simple joys of cooking with loved ones. Many of us can recall moments where we’ve gathered around the kitchen counter, laughter mingling with the delicate sound of pastry rolling. That warmth, along with the tartness of cherries, creates an experience that’s both cheerful and delicious.
The beauty of a classic cherry pie recipe lies in its simplicity and the timeless flavors of its ingredients. Fresh, juicy cherries take center stage, bursting with natural sweetness and a hint of tartness. As you prepare this dessert, you’ll find that each step is an opportunity to engage your senses—from the vivid red hues of the cherries to the buttery aroma of the crust as it bakes. Whether you’re making it for a summer picnic or a cozy winter gathering, indulgence is guaranteed.
Of course, every fantastic cherry pie deserves a great crust. The interplay of the flaky pastry with that luscious cherry filling is what makes this dessert memorable. As you feel the delicate dough beneath your fingers, know that you’re participating in a culinary tradition that many cherish. You don’t need to be a master chef; with care and attention to detail, anyone can create a pie that feels like a warm hug.
Throughout this recipe, I’ll share not just the ingredients and instructions but also insights and tips that will make your baking journey enjoyable. With the right techniques in hand, you’ll discover that creating your own cherry pie is not just about the final result but also about the joyful process of pie-making itself. So grab your cherries and let’s bake something special together!
Key Ingredients for Cherry Pie Recipe
Cherry Pie is a cherished classic, often evoking memories of summer gatherings and joyful celebrations. To achieve the perfect cherry pie, the quality of the ingredients cannot be overlooked. Let’s explore the essential components that will make your cherry pie recipe truly memorable.
Fresh Cherries: I prefer using fresh, pitted cherries for an authentic flavor. Their vibrant sweetness and slight tang elevate the pie to new heights. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of biting into a ripe cherry!
Granulated Sugar: This simple ingredient plays a crucial role in balancing the cherries’ tartness. The right amount of sugar allows the natural flavors of the cherries to shine through, contributing to a deliciously satisfying filling.
Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice enhances the cherry flavor, adding a bright acidity that keeps the filling fresh and vibrant. It can be the secret ingredient that takes your pie from good to outstanding!
Cornstarch: This is essential for thickening the filling, ensuring a perfectly set pie without any runniness. It binds everything together beautifully, so each slice holds its shape.
Unsalted Butter: I use butter to enrich the filling, adding a depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste. It gives the pie that delectable richness that makes every bite enjoyable.
With these key ingredients, your cherry pie will be a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pie Recipe
Cherry pie recipes are like the comforting hug of the dessert world—always there to brighten your day. Imagine walking into a kitchen filled with the sweet, tart aroma of ripe cherries baking under a golden crust. This cherry pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s a delicious invitation to share memories, whether it’s a summer gathering or a cozy night in.
Classic comfort in every slice
Imagine slicing into a perfectly flaky crust that crumbles just right, revealing a luscious filling bursting with fresh, tangy cherries. There’s something undeniably nostalgic about a slice of cherry pie. Each bite is a burst of flavor that takes you back to family gatherings and childhood summers spent picking cherries under the sun. The balance of sweet and tart cherries mixed gently with a hint of almond extract creates a symphony of tastes that will leave you wanting more.
Making this pie is a labor of love, but it’s worth every second. The satisfaction of creating something so utterly delightful is unmatched. Whether served solo, à la mode, or with a dollop of whipped cream, this cherry pie recipe will become a cherished staple in your cooking repertoire. It’s not just about eating; it’s about creating moments that will linger long after the last bite.
Tips for Making Perfect Cherry Pie
Creating a perfect cherry pie isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about avoiding common pitfalls that can turn a delightful dessert into a soggy disappointment. Think of your pie as a canvas—the key is in the details that make it truly shine!
Common pitfalls to avoid
Choosing the Wrong Cherries: Opt for fresh, ripe cherries whenever possible. While frozen cherries are convenient, they can sometimes lead to excess moisture in your filling, making your crust soggy.
Neglecting the Dough: A flaky pie crust is paramount. Too much water or over-kneading can ruin its texture. Aim for a tender, well-chilled dough, and don’t forget to let it rest before rolling it out.
Skipping the Pre-Bake: If your cherries are particularly juicier, consider a pre-bake for the crust. This helps prevent that dreaded sogginess.
Overfilling the Pie: While a heaping filling looks tempting, it can overflow during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts to ensure even cooking.
Ignoring the Spice: A hint of cinnamon or almond extract elevates the cherry flavor. Don’t skip these optional ingredients—they bring depth and warmth!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to mastering your cherry pie recipe. Enjoy the process and happy baking!
Time Details for Cherry Pie
Creating a delightful cherry pie not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Whether it’s for a summer gathering or a comforting dessert, understanding the time involved is essential for planning your baking adventure.
Preparation time
For the cherry pie recipe, allocate about 20-30 minutes for preparation. This includes pitting the cherries, mixing them with sugar and cornstarch, and rolling out your pie dough. It’s the perfect time to let your kitchen fill with the sweet scent of cherries.
Baking time
The baking time usually takes around 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on your pie; the crust should turn a beautiful golden brown, and the filling should be bubbly.
Total time
In all, expect to spend approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish to enjoy a slice of this classic cherry pie. This timeframe makes it easy to squeeze this delicious treat into your weekend plans!
Nutritional Information for Cherry Pie Recipe
When diving into the delightful world of a cherry pie recipe, understanding its nutritional profile can transform your indulgence into a mindful treat. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect when enjoying this classic dessert.
Calories
A single slice of homemade cherry pie contains approximately 300 calories. While it might be tempting to enjoy another slice, being aware of the calorie count can help you savor it even more.
Protein
You can find around 2 grams of protein per serving. Though not a significant source of protein, this pie pairs nicely with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which can enhance both flavor and nutritional balance.
Sodium
Each slice contains about 200 mg of sodium. This amount is manageable for most diets, but pairing it with fresh fruit or a nice salad can help maintain a balanced meal.
Enjoying cherry pie is all about finding that perfect balance of indulgence and mindfulness!
FAQs about Cherry Pie Recipe
Creating the perfect cherry pie is as rewarding as it is delicious. However, you may have some questions that arise during the baking adventure. Let’s tackle those common questions together!
How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?
One of the most frustrating challenges with any pie, especially a cherry pie, is encountering that unwelcome sogginess in the crust. A few tricks can ensure a perfectly crisp base:
- Blind Baking: Pre-baking your crust for about 10 minutes can help. Use pie weights to prevent the crust from puffing up.
- Cornstarch or Flour Layer: Sprinkling a thin layer of cornstarch or all-purpose flour on the bottom of the crust before adding the filling can act as a barrier against moisture.
- Bake Hot: Starting your pie in a hot oven allows the crust to firm up quickly, sealing it before the filling releases too much juice.
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries can be a great substitute when fresh ones aren’t available. Just thaw them out and drain any excess juice, as this will prevent your cherry pie filling from becoming overly watery. In fact, many bakers prefer frozen cherries because they are picked at peak ripeness and can actually yield a richer flavor once baked.
What can I do with leftover cherry pie filling?
If you find yourself with some leftover cherry pie filling, you’re in luck! There are several delightful ways to use it:
- Top Pancakes or Waffles: Drizzle warmed cherry filling over breakfast favorites for a fruity addition.
- Create Cherry Yogurt Parfaits: Layer with yogurt and granola for a tasty snack or dessert.
- Bake in Muffins: Spoon the filling into muffin batter for a delicious surprise inside.
With these tips in mind, you can confidently tackle your cherry pie recipe, creating a dessert that’s sure to impress!
Conclusion on Cherry Pie Recipe
Celebrating Homemade Goodness
Indulging in a cherry pie recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience that evokes warmth and nostalgia. With each slice, you savor the delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors, possibly reminiscent of summer days spent picking cherries with loved ones. This pie, with its flaky crust and luscious filling, represents the heart of homemade goodness. Whether you’re sharing it at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this cherry pie promises to bring joy and connection. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and celebrate the satisfaction of creating something truly special.
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Cherry Pie
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious homemade cherry pie made with fresh cherries and a flaky crust.
Ingredients
- 5 cups fresh cherries (pitted)
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large lemon (1–1/2 tablespoons juice)
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 2 homemade pie crusts
- 1 large egg (plus 1 tablespoon milk)
- 2 tablespoons coarse sparkling sugar
Instructions
- If possible, make the pie crusts the day before. Cold dough = better pie! Follow pie crust recipe and chill thoroughly.
- Wash and fully dry the cherries. Remove stems and pits. Cut half of the cherries in half, and the rest into quarters. Add cherries to a medium pot with sugar and lemon juice. Cook, stirring occasionally, over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until juices are released. Use a slotted spoon to transfer cherries to a large bowl, leaving the juices in the pot on the stovetop.
- In a separate small bowl, add the cornstarch. Remove 2 tablespoons of the hot cherry juice and whisk it into the cornstarch until smooth. Gradually pour the cornstarch mixture back into the pot with the remaining juice, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook, whisking constantly, over medium heat, until thick and smooth, about 3-5 minutes. Pour over the cherries and gently toss to coat. Stir in butter until melted. Add vanilla and almond extract, if using. Refrigerate the filling while you roll out the pie crust. Filling should be cold before adding to the base crust.
- Lightly grease a 9-inch pie pan with cooking spray. Roll out one chilled pie crust to a 12″ circle. Fit into the pan and spoon in the cooled cherry filling. Preheat oven to 400°F. Roll out the second crust and cut into 1/2-inch strips. Arrange over the filling in a lattice pattern. Seal and crimp the edges as desired.
- Whisk egg and milk in a small bowl. Brush over the top crust, then sprinkle with coarse sugar. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes. Lower oven to 375°F and bake an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and juices bubble through the crust for at least 5 minutes. Check the pie after 30 minutes and cover the edges with a pie crust shield if browning too quickly.
- Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 3-4 hours before slicing. The filling sets as it cools. Cutting too early will result in a runny pie. Once fully cooled, slice and serve, or cover and refrigerate to serve the next day.
Notes
- Note 1: Pitting cherries can be done using a cherry pitter or a knife.
- Note 2: A pie crust shield can help prevent over-browning of the edges.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
