Cherry Pie
Cherry pie is a timeless dessert that captures the essence of summer in every slice. With its flaky crust and luscious cherry filling, it’s a favorite among dessert lovers. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this cherry pie recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the step-by-step process to create this delightful treat.
Ingredients
– 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade)
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
– 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 8 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and the cooking time is 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of cherry pie (1 slice) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Total Fat: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 38g
– Protein: 2g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional information is for one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
3. Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan.
4. Pour the cherry mixture into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
5. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.
6. Roll out the second pie crust and cut it into strips to create a lattice design.
7. Arrange the strips over the cherry filling, weaving them for a classic look.
8. Whisk together the egg and milk, then brush the mixture over the crust.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
10. Allow the pie to cool before serving to let the filling set.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh cherries with canned cherries or frozen cherries. If you prefer a healthier option, consider using honey or agave syrup instead of granulated sugar. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pie crusts.
Serving and Pairings
Cherry pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It also tastes great with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine, making it a versatile choice for any gathering.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover cherry pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Cherry pie can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much sugar can overpower the natural cherry flavor.
- Not allowing the pie to cool properly can result in a runny filling.
- Skipping the egg wash will lead to a less golden crust.
- Overbaking can lead to a burnt crust.
- Not pitting the cherries can result in unpleasant bites.
Helpful Tips
- For a deeper flavor, try adding almond extract to the filling.
- Use a mix of sweet and tart cherries for a balanced taste.
- Let the pie rest overnight for the best flavor development.
- Cover the edges of the crust with foil if they brown too quickly.
- Always taste the filling before baking to adjust sweetness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries for cherry pie?
Yes, frozen cherries work well in cherry pie. Just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before use to prevent excess moisture.
How do I know when the cherry pie is done?
The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. You can also check that the cherries are tender.
Can I make cherry pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.
What type of crust is best for cherry pie?
A flaky, buttery crust is ideal for cherry pie. You can use store-bought or homemade, depending on your preference.
How should I store leftover cherry pie?
Store leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Conclusion
Cherry pie is a delightful dessert that brings joy to any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe worth trying. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, this classic treat is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Cherry Pie
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts
- 1 egg for egg wash
- 1 tablespoon milk for egg wash
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan.
- Pour the cherry mixture into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
- Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.
- Roll out the second pie crust and cut it into strips to create a lattice design.
- Arrange the strips over the cherry filling, weaving them for a classic look.
- Whisk together the egg and milk, then brush the mixture over the crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- Allow the pie to cool before serving to let the filling set.