Cherry Pie Recipe (with Video)

Cherry Pie Recipe: Cherry pie is the quintessential dessert that brings together the sweetness of cherries and the buttery, flaky goodness of a homemade crust.

Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, cherry pie is a beloved treat for any occasion.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to bake a perfect cherry pie from scratch.

Ingredients for Cherry Pie

To create a delicious cherry pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the filling:

• 4 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries
• 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on cherry sweetness)
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

For the crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water

Optional:

• Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water)
• Coarse sugar for sprinkling

Make sure to taste your cherries beforehand. Fresh cherries offer a more vibrant flavor, while frozen ones work well for convenience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Before starting, gather the following tools:

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Cherry pitter or small knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9-inch pie pan
• Pastry brush
• Fork or lattice cutter (for decorating the crust)

Each tool plays a crucial role. For example, a cherry pitter saves time, while a rolling pin ensures even crust thickness.

Preparing the Cherry Filling

1. Clean and Pit the Cherries: If you’re using fresh cherries, rinse them thoroughly under cold water. Remove the pits using a cherry pitter or a small knife. Frozen cherries should be thawed and drained of excess water.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the pitted cherries, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and almond extract. Stir gently until the cherries are well coated, and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes.
3. Simmer the Filling (Optional): For a thicker filling, you can simmer the cherry mixture in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens. Allow it to cool before adding it to the crust.

The filling should be slightly glossy and thickened, not watery.

Making the Perfect Pie Crust

A good crust can make or break a pie. Follow these steps for a buttery, flaky crust:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Incorporate Butter: Add cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Ice Water: Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough holds together. Avoid overworking it, as this can make the crust tough.
4. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two disks, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Chilling is essential for easy rolling and a flaky texture.

Assembling the Cherry Pie

1. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer it to the pie pan, pressing it gently into the edges.
2. Add the Filling: Pour the prepared cherry filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.
3. Top Crust: Roll out the second disk of dough. Place it over the filling as a full crust or cut into strips for a lattice design. Seal the edges by pinching or crimping.
4. Decorate and Finish: Brush the top crust with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar for a golden, glossy finish.

Baking the Pie to Perfection

1. Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake: Place the pie on the center rack and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
3. Cool: Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set before serving.

Tips for a Perfect Cherry Pie

1. Preventing a Soggy Bottom: To avoid a soggy crust, blind bake the bottom crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling. Alternatively, sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs or crushed graham crackers before pouring in the filling to absorb excess moisture.
2. Adjusting Sweetness and Tartness: If your cherries are particularly sweet, reduce the sugar slightly. For tart cherries, you might need a little extra sugar or a pinch more almond extract to balance the flavor.
3. Chilling the Dough: Cold dough leads to a flakier crust. Keep your butter and water as cold as possible, and work quickly to prevent the butter from melting.

Alternative Crust Options

1. Store-Bought Crusts: If you’re short on time, pre-made crusts can be a lifesaver. Just make sure to thaw them properly if frozen, and check the baking instructions for adjustments.
2. Gluten-Free Crusts: For a gluten-free option, use a blend of almond flour and gluten-free all-purpose flour. Add a binding agent like xanthan gum for structure.
3. Vegan Crusts: Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and use a flaxseed and water mixture in place of the egg wash for a shiny finish.

Serving Suggestions

1. Classic Pairings: Cherry pie is heavenly when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
2. Creative Twists: For a festive touch, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the pie or sprinkle crushed nuts on top. Pair with cherry-infused tea or a dessert wine for an elegant presentation.
3. Serving Temperature: Serve slightly warm or at room temperature for the best texture. Too hot, and the filling might still be runny; too cold, and the crust could lose its crispness.

Storing Cherry Pie

1. Refrigeration: Cover your pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 4 days. If you plan to serve leftovers, reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes to refresh the crust.
2. Freezing: Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.
3. Avoiding Stale Pie: Store pie slices in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking or Undercooking the Filling: Check the pie about 10 minutes before the end of the baking time to ensure the filling is bubbling and thickened.
2. Burnt Edges: Use a pie shield or cover the edges with aluminum foil if they start browning too quickly.
3. Poorly Sealed Edges: Make sure to crimp the edges properly to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

Healthier Variations of Cherry Pie

1. Reduced Sugar: Swap half of the sugar for natural sweeteners like honey or stevia.
2. Whole Wheat Crust:
   Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and more fiber.
3. Low-Fat Options:
   Use reduced-fat butter or margarine for the crust, and skip the egg wash.

FAQs About Cherry Pie Recipe

1. What are the key ingredients for a cherry pie?

The essential ingredients for a classic cherry pie include fresh or canned cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, a pinch of salt, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and a flaky pie crust (homemade or store-bought). These ingredients create a sweet and tangy filling with a perfect balance of flavors.

2. Can I use frozen cherries for the pie?

Yes, frozen cherries work well for cherry pie. Make sure to thaw and drain them before use to prevent excess moisture in your pie filling. Adjust the cornstarch to achieve the right consistency.

3. How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?

To avoid a soggy crust, blind bake the bottom crust for a few minutes before adding the cherry filling. Additionally, brushing the crust with an egg wash can create a barrier to seal it.

4. How long should I bake a cherry pie?

Bake your cherry pie at 375°F (190°C) for 45–50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Cover the edges with foil if they start to brown too quickly.

5. How do I store leftover cherry pie?

Store leftover cherry pie at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate it for up to 4 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness.

6. Can I make cherry pie ahead of time?

Yes, cherry pie can be made ahead of time. Bake it a day in advance and allow it to cool completely before covering and storing. This makes it a convenient option for holidays and gatherings.

By answering these common questions, this section ensures your cherry pie turns out perfectly every time. Don’t forget to enjoy a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Conclusion

Homemade cherry pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a labor of love that brings comfort and joy with every bite. From the sweet-tart filling to the flaky crust, the steps you’ve mastered in this guide will ensure a pie worthy of any celebration. With a little patience and practice, your cherry pie can become a family tradition that’s passed down for generations.