Cherry Pie is the quintessential dessert that dances on your taste buds, blending sweet and tart like a perfectly choreographed ballet. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you in a warm, buttery hug that makes you feel right at home. Picture this: flaky crust cradling juicy cherries, bursting with flavor at the slightest touch—it’s a slice of summer nostalgia that takes you back to Grandma’s kitchen.
And let’s not forget the moments shared over this delightful treat. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a picnic under the stars, Cherry Pie has a way of bringing people together. With each bite, laughter fills the air as memories are made and stories are shared—this pie is an open invitation for joy!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cherry Pie is incredibly easy to whip up, even if you’ve never baked before.
- Its sweet-tart flavor balance makes it irresistibly delicious.
- The vibrant red filling and golden crust create a stunning centerpiece for any gathering.
- Perfect for summer barbecues or holiday feasts, it’s a versatile dessert everyone will love.
Ingredients for Cherry Pie
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Cherries: Aim for about 4 cups of ripe cherries; they should be plump and juicy for the best flavor.
Sugar: About 1 cup will help balance the tartness of the cherries and create that sweet gooey filling.
All-Purpose Flour: Used to thicken the cherry mixture; around 2 tablespoons will do the trick.
Lemon Juice: A tablespoon of fresh lemon juice enhances the flavors and adds brightness to the filling.
Pie Crust (store-bought or homemade): You’ll need enough for both top and bottom layers; opt for something flaky!
Butter: A couple of tablespoons of unsalted butter add richness to the pie filling.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cherry Pie
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). As you wait, it’s a fantastic time to gather all your ingredients and tools—because let’s face it, nobody wants to be running around looking for measuring cups when batter is involved!
Step 2: Prepare Those Cherries
Wash about four cups of fresh cherries, removing stems and pits. If you’re feeling adventurous, enlist a friend or family member for cherry-pitting duty—it’s messy but can lead to some hilarious moments!
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine your pitted cherries with one cup of sugar, two tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and one tablespoon of lemon juice. Gently toss until the cherries are coated and set aside while you work on that crust.
Step 4: Roll Out Your Crust
If using store-bought pie dough, roll out one crust into your pie dish. If you’re making it from scratch (extra points!), roll out your beautifully crafted dough into circles that would make any pastry chef proud.
Step 5: Assemble Your Pie
Pour your cherry mixture into the prepared crust and dot with two tablespoons of butter cut into small pieces. Cover with another layer of dough or create a lattice top if you’re feeling fancy!
Step 6: Bake Away
Bake your pie in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes until the crust is golden brown and bubbly juices start oozing out like they can’t contain their excitement anymore!
Let it cool slightly before serving—nobody wants burnt tongues while trying to enjoy this masterpiece! Transfer slices onto plates and serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Now that you know how easy it is to create this Cherry Pie from scratch, get ready to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy every bite of this sweet adventure!
You Must Know
- Cherry pie is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of summer.
- The juicy cherries, perfectly balanced with sugar and a buttery crust, make it irresistible.
- This recipe is simple, yet it brings joy to any gathering, whether it’s a picnic or a family dinner.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the ultimate cherry pie, start by preparing the cherry filling while preheating your oven. Roll out the pie crust next and layer it with the filling before baking to golden perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to mix in some almond extract for an extra layer of flavor. You can also swap fresh cherries for frozen ones or add a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cherry pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for that freshly baked taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best cherry pie, use ripe, sweet cherries to enhance flavor.
- Always roll out your crust on a floured surface to avoid sticking.
- Let your pie cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Sometimes I think my cherry pie could win an award at family gatherings. My uncle once claimed he’d never tasted anything sweeter—until he tried my secret ingredient (spoiler: it’s love).
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for a Cherry Pie?
To make a delicious Cherry Pie, you will need fresh or frozen cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. You can also use store-bought pastry dough or make your own from flour, butter, and salt. This simple combination creates a flavorful filling that will delight your taste buds. Don’t forget to brush the crust with egg wash for a golden finish. The balance of tart cherries and sweet sugar makes this dessert irresistible.
How long does it take to bake a Cherry Pie?
Baking a Cherry Pie typically takes about 45 to 50 minutes in a preheated oven set at 425°F (220°C). You should keep an eye on the pie during the last few minutes to ensure the crust doesn’t burn. Once it’s golden brown and bubbling, it’s time to take it out. Allowing the pie to cool for a couple of hours helps the filling set properly, making it easier to slice. Patience is key for the best results.
Can I use canned cherries for my Cherry Pie?
Yes, you can use canned cherries for your Cherry Pie if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to drain them well before mixing with sugar and other ingredients. Canned cherries can sometimes be sweeter than fresh ones, so adjust the sugar accordingly. While using canned cherries may alter the texture slightly, they still produce a delightful pie. Experimenting with different cherry types allows you to find your perfect flavor balance.
How do I store leftover Cherry Pie?
To store leftover Cherry Pie, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices or the whole pie wrapped tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Thaw frozen pie in the refrigerator overnight before serving again. Enjoying leftovers can be just as rewarding as savoring the freshly baked version.
Conclusion for Cherry Pie:
In summary, making a Cherry Pie is both enjoyable and rewarding. With simple ingredients like cherries, sugar, and pastry dough, you can create a dessert that satisfies any sweet tooth. Remember that baking time is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust while allowing adequate cooling time enhances flavor and texture. Whether you choose fresh or canned cherries, each pie offers its unique taste experience. Enjoy every delicious bite of this classic treat!
Cherry Pie
Cherry Pie is a beloved classic dessert that perfectly embodies summer with its sweet and tart cherry filling enveloped in a flaky, buttery crust. This easy-to-make pie not only brings back cherished memories of family gatherings but also serves as an impressive centerpiece for any occasion. With its vibrant color and irresistible aroma, Cherry Pie guarantees to delight your taste buds and create joyful moments with every slice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Wash and pit the cherries.
- In a bowl, mix together cherries, sugar, flour, and lemon juice; toss to coat.
- Roll out the pie crust and fit it into your pie dish.
- Pour the cherry mixture into the crust and dot with butter.
- Cover with another layer of dough or create a lattice top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider mixing in almond extract or cinnamon. - If fresh cherries aren't available, frozen cherries can be used; adjust the sugar accordingly. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
