Cherry Pie

Cherry pie is a timeless dessert that captures the essence of summer with every bite. The vibrant red cherries nestled inside a flaky, buttery double crust make for a pie that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just because, this cherry pie recipe is sure to become a favorite. It balances the tartness of fresh cherries with just the right amount of sweetness and a hint of vanilla or almond extract, making every slice a comforting treat. Let’s dive into why this recipe stands out and how you can make the perfect cherry pie from scratch.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This cherry pie recipe is a must-try because it combines simplicity with incredible flavor and texture. Using fresh, whole cherries ensures a juicy filling that isn’t overly sweet, while the addition of cornstarch naturally thickens the filling without any artificial thickeners. The choice between vanilla and almond extract allows you to customize the flavor, making the pie uniquely yours. Plus, the flaky double pie crust adds a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the tender fruit filling. This recipe is straightforward enough for beginners but yields professional-quality results that will impress any crowd.

Ingredients

• ▢ 1 double pie crust click for recipe
• ▢ 5 cups cherries, pitted and left whole
• ▢ ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ▢ ¼ cup cornstarch
• ▢ 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract or ½ teaspoon almond extract
• ▢ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ▢ 1 egg, beaten and mixed with 1 tablespoon water for egg wash

How To Make Cherry Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start with your double pie crust, whether it’s homemade or store-bought. Roll out one portion of the dough on a lightly floured surface to fit your 9-inch pie pan. Carefully transfer the crust to the pie pan, pressing it gently into place. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.

Step 2: Make the Cherry Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla or almond extract, and lemon juice. Stir gently to mix all ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the cherries are evenly coated. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes so the sugar starts to draw out the juices.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Pour the cherry filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Roll out the second portion of the pie dough and place it over the filling. You can create a classic full top crust, or cut slits or shapes for a decorative lattice. Pinch the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal, and trim any excess dough. Use a fork or your fingers to crimp the edges.

Step 4: Apply the Egg Wash

Brush the top crust generously with the beaten egg wash. This will help the crust develop a beautiful golden color and a subtle shine during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 15 minutes. Then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 35-40 minutes more, or until the crust is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This cooling time lets the filling set properly, making it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy your cherry pie plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

Expert Tips

• Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor and texture. Bing or Rainier cherries work wonderfully.
• Don’t skip the lemon juice; it brightens the flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Chilling your pie crust dough before rolling helps create a flakier crust.
• To prevent the crust edges from burning, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie shield halfway through baking.
• Let the pie cool completely to avoid a runny filling when slicing.
• If you prefer a thicker filling, increase the cornstarch to 1/3 cup, but be careful not to add too much or the filling will become gummy.

Variations and Customizations

• Spiced Cherry Pie: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the cherry mixture for a warm, cozy flavor.
• Gluten-Free Crust: Use a gluten-free pie crust recipe or a store-bought gluten-free dough for those with dietary restrictions.
• Vegan Version: Substitute the egg wash with a mixture of almond milk and maple syrup to achieve a golden crust without eggs.
• Mixed Berry Pie: Combine cherries with blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry twist.
• Almond Cherry Pie: Use almond extract exclusively and sprinkle sliced almonds on top of the crust before baking for added crunch.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your cherry pie fresh, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. If you want to freeze the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to remove excess moisture. This helps prevent a watery filling. You might also want to reduce the amount of lemon juice slightly to balance the flavor.

Do I have to pit the cherries myself?

Pitting cherries can be time-consuming but is highly recommended for the best eating experience. You can use a cherry pitter tool or carefully slice and remove the pits by hand. Some stores sell pre-pitted cherries, which can save time.

What’s the best way to prevent the bottom crust from getting soggy?

To avoid a soggy bottom crust, you can brush the bottom crust with a thin layer of egg white before adding the filling. Also, placing the pie on a lower rack in the oven helps the bottom crust bake fully and become crisp.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pie up to the assembly stage, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for planning ahead for events or holidays.

Conclusion

Cherry pie is a classic dessert that never goes out of style, and this recipe brings together all the elements needed for a perfect pie every time. From the flaky double crust to the luscious cherry filling enhanced with vanilla or almond extract, this pie is sure to delight your family and friends. With easy-to-follow steps, expert tips, and delicious variations, you can tailor this pie to your taste and occasion. So grab your rolling pin, pit those cherries, and get ready to bake a slice of pure joy. Your perfect cherry pie awaits!