This cherry pie recipe is simply the best! The BEST Cherry Pie features a vibrant cherry filling that is sweet and juicy, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a summer barbecue or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, this pie will impress your family and friends. The standout qualities of this dessert include a flaky, buttery crust paired with a rich cherry flavor that’s hard to resist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delightful dessert.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use fresh or frozen cherries based on availability and preference.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, gatherings, or just as a sweet treat at home.
- Beautiful Presentation: The shiny golden crust and vibrant filling make it visually appealing.
- Deliciously Flavorful: A blend of vanilla and almond extracts elevates the overall taste profile.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- Rolling pin
- 9-inch deep dish pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Pastry cutter (optional)
- Baking foil
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: Quickly combines ingredients for the pie crust, saving you time and effort.
- Rolling pin: Ensures an even thickness for your dough, crucial for baking the perfect crust.
- Pie dish: A deep dish allows for ample filling while maintaining the structural integrity of the pie.
Ingredients
- 6 cups sweet cherries (2 pounds, pitted and halved)
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar (see note)
- 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: Make the Cherry Filling
- Place the pitted, halved cherries in a large bowl.
- Add the granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, salt, and almond extract (if using).
- Stir until well combined and set aside to let the cherries release their juices.
Step 2: Make the Pie Crust
- In a food processor, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add cold butter cubes and pulse until they resemble small peas.
- Gradually add ice-cold water while pulsing until the dough comes together.
- Transfer to a floured surface; form into a ball and divide it in half. Shape each half into a disk.
- Wrap one disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate.
- Roll out the second disk into a 12-inch round and place it in your pie dish.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Stir the cherry mixture again before pouring it into the prepared pie crust along with all juices from mixing bowl.
- Cut small cubes of butter and scatter them over the top of the cherry filling.
- Roll out remaining dough disk into another 12-inch round; place it on top or create a lattice design.
- Trim excess dough from edges; fold overhang under and crimp edges as desired.
Step 4: Brush with Egg Wash & Bake
- In a small bowl, whisk together egg and milk; brush over the pie crust lightly.
- Chill in refrigerator for about 20 minutes while preheating oven to 400°F.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes; lower temperature to 350°F and bake an additional 40–50 minutes until bubbly.
- Cool to room temperature for at least three hours before serving.
Enjoy your homemade creation of The BEST Cherry Pie!
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How to Serve The BEST Cherry Pie
Serving The BEST Cherry Pie can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this classic treat.
A La Mode
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of a warm slice for a creamy contrast to the tart cherries.
With Fresh Whipped Cream
- Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added richness and a light, airy texture.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- Enhance the flavors by drizzling chocolate sauce over the pie for a decadent touch.
Accompanied by Fresh Berries
- Serve with a side of fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries to introduce another layer of fruitiness.
Paired with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy a slice of cherry pie alongside your favorite coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon treat.
How to Perfect The BEST Cherry Pie
To make sure your cherry pie turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Cherries: Opt for sweet, ripe cherries, whether fresh or frozen, for the best flavor in your filling.
- Let the Filling Rest: Allowing the cherry mixture to sit helps release juices, which thickens the filling during baking.
- Chill Your Dough: Keeping the pie crust dough cold ensures a flaky texture and prevents shrinking while baking.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pie as it bakes; if the crust browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
- Cool Before Serving: Letting the pie cool for at least three hours helps thicken the filling, making it easier to slice.
Best Side Dishes for The BEST Cherry Pie
To complement The BEST Cherry Pie, consider these delicious side dishes. Each adds its own unique flavor profile, enhancing your dessert experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the tartness of cherries.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness and brightness alongside your rich pie.
- Cheese Plate: Include some mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese that contrast beautifully with sweet cherry flavors.
- Chocolate Mousse: A rich and airy dessert that pairs well after enjoying a slice of cherry pie.
- Pecan Sandies: These buttery cookies provide a crunchy texture that complements the soft filling of the pie.
- Coffee Cake: A slice of moist coffee cake makes for an excellent brunch companion with cherry pie.
- Custard or Pudding: Creamy custards enhance the sweetness while adding richness to your dessert table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making The BEST Cherry Pie can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
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Ignoring the cherry preparation: Failing to properly pit and halve the cherries can lead to an uneven filling. Always make sure your cherries are well prepped for the best flavor and texture.
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Overmixing the crust: Overmixing can result in a tough pie crust. Mix just until the ingredients come together to maintain flakiness.
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Skipping the resting time: Not allowing the pie crust to chill can cause it to shrink during baking. Always refrigerate the dough before rolling it out.
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Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin the balance of flavors. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
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Baking without preheating: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always make sure your oven is at the right temperature before you start baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover pie in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap.
- The pie will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing The BEST Cherry Pie
- Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil for extra protection.
- You can freeze The BEST Cherry Pie for up to 3 months.
Reheating The BEST Cherry Pie
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Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
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Microwave: Slice a piece and place it on a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until heated through.
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Stovetop: For individual slices, use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat slowly for about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making The BEST Cherry Pie:
Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cherries work well! Just be sure to thaw them fully and drain any excess liquid before using.
What is the best type of cherries for cherry pie?
Sweet varieties like Bing cherries are ideal for pies due to their rich flavor. Tart cherries also work if you prefer a more tangy taste.
How do I know when my cherry pie is done?
Look for bubbling filling and a golden-brown crust. Allow it to cool completely before slicing, as this helps thicken the filling.
Can I make this cherry pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and crust separately and assemble them just before baking or bake it entirely in advance and store it.
What should I serve with cherry pie?
A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream complements The BEST Cherry Pie beautifully!
Final Thoughts
This recipe for The BEST Cherry Pie showcases a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors with a flaky crust that is simply irresistible. It’s versatile too—feel free to customize with different spices or toppings! Whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the oven or chilled from the fridge, this classic dessert is sure to impress family and friends alike. Give it a try today!
The Best Cherry Pie
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate cherry pie experience with this delightful recipe that combines sweet, juicy cherries with a perfectly flaky crust. Perfect for any occasion, this pie is sure to impress your friends and family. With its vibrant filling and buttery texture, it’s no wonder this classic dessert is a favorite. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy night in, this cherry pie is versatile enough to suit any setting. Easy to make and visually stunning, it features hints of vanilla and almond extracts that elevate the flavor profile to new heights.
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)
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
- 7 tablespoons ice-cold water
Instructions
- Make the Cherry Filling: Combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, salt, and almond extract in a large bowl. Stir well and set aside.
- Prepare the Pie Crust: In a food processor, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold butter; pulse until mixture resembles small peas. Gradually add ice-cold water until dough forms. Shape into disks and refrigerate.
- Assemble the Pie: Roll out one disk into a circle and place in a deep dish pie plate. Pour cherry mixture into crust; dot with butter. Roll out second disk for the top; trim edges and crimp.
- Bake: Brush crust with egg wash and chill for 20 minutes. Preheat oven to 400°F, bake for 20 minutes; reduce temperature to 350°F and bake an additional 40–50 minutes until bubbly.
- Cool & Serve: Let cool at room temperature for at least three hours before slicing.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (115g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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