Craving a dessert that brings back childhood memories? This classic homemade cherry pie is the perfect indulgence. It’s a delightful treat that combines sweet and tart cherries with a flaky, buttery crust, making it a favorite for gatherings or simply enjoying at home. Plus, nothing beats the aroma of a pie baking in your oven!
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is simple enough to follow and yields mouthwatering results. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and watch as it becomes the star of the dessert table.
The Allure of Cherry Pie
Cherry pie has a unique charm that captures the essence of home and comfort.
The vibrant red cherries against the golden crust create an eye-catching contrast.
This dessert often evokes nostalgia, transporting us back to family gatherings and summer picnics.
Key Ingredients for Success
The success of a cherry pie lies in its quality ingredients.
Fresh or frozen cherries, combined with sugar and a splash of lemon juice, form the delightful filling.
A buttery, flaky crust serves as the perfect base, enhancing each bite with its texture.
Baking Tips for the Perfect Crust
Achieving a golden, flaky crust can be mastered with a few simple techniques.
Make sure to keep your ingredients cold, especially the butter and water.
This helps create that light, airy texture we all love.
Don’t forget to brush the crust with an egg wash before baking. It adds a beautiful sheen that elevates the pie’s appearance.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry pie shines when served warm, straight from the oven.
Pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a timeless choice.
The coolness of the ice cream complements the warmth of the pie, creating a delightful contrast.
Storing and Enjoying Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly is key.
Cover the pie loosely with foil and keep it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
It can be enjoyed cold or reheated in the oven for a couple of minutes.
Why Cherry Pie is a Classic
This dessert holds a special place in many hearts, transcending generations.
Its balance of sweet and tart flavors, alongside its inviting aroma, makes it a favorite at gatherings.
Whether made from scratch or with a trusty recipe, cherry pie continues to be a beloved indulgence for many.
The Ultimate Cherry Pie Recipe
This cherry pie features a rich filling made from fresh or frozen cherries, balanced perfectly with sugar and a hint of lemon juice. The crust is golden and flaky, providing the ideal contrast to the luscious filling.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 package of pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Roll Out the Crust: Roll out one pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the edges, leaving a small overhang.
- Add Filling: Pour the cherry mixture into the pie crust, and dot the top with small pieces of butter.
- Top with Crust: Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Brush and Sprinkle: Brush the top crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar for a nice finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. Serve with ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 300kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
