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If you’re searching for a dessert that perfectly captures the sweet-tart magic of fresh fruit wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust, look no further. This Irresistible Cherry Pie Recipe That’ll Be Your New Favorite Dessert Recipe brings together juicy cherries, a hint of almond, and a beautifully golden crust that’s sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen. It’s the kind of pie that invites smiles, seconds, and heartfelt “thank yous” from anyone you share it with.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients just right is the secret to making your cherry pie sing. Each element plays a vital role, whether it’s the flaky pastry crust lending satisfying texture or the juicy cherries packing flavor and color into every bite.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Builds the foundation for a tender yet sturdy pie crust that holds all the filling perfectly.
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed: Chilled butter creates those flaky, melt-in-your-mouth layers in your crust.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness and anchoring the dough.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to the crust, rounding out the flavor.
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water: Just enough moisture to bring the dough together without making it tough.
- 5 cups pitted sweet cherries (fresh or thawed frozen): The star of the show, bursting with natural sweetness and a pop of vibrant color.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling while balancing the cherry’s natural tartness.
- 1/4 cup cornstarch: The perfect thickener that keeps the cherry filling luscious and not runny.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the fruit flavor with a gentle citrus zing.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, comforting depth to the filling that complements the cherries beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract: A subtle hint that elevates cherry’s natural flavor for something truly special.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness in the filling for a more complex taste.
- 1 tablespoon butter, small pieces: Dotting the filling with butter helps create a rich, velvety texture as it bakes.
- 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water: Perfect for brushing on top to achieve a golden, glossy crust.
How to Make Irresistible Cherry Pie Recipe That’ll Be Your New Favorite Dessert Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Dough
Start by whisking flour, salt, and sugar together in a large bowl; this ensures even distribution of the seasoning. Cut the chilled butter into the mixture until you see small pea-sized crumbs. This step is key to a flaky crust, so don’t rush. Slowly add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, just until your dough holds together. Divide into two disks, wrap each one in plastic, and chill for at least an hour to relax the gluten and keep your butter cold.
Step 2: Make the Cherry Filling
While the dough rests, toss your pitted cherries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla, almond extract, and salt. This combination balances sweetness, acidity, and flavor complexity. Make sure every cherry is well-coated to thicken nicely once baked and deliver that signature glossy filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disk into a circle big enough to line a 9-inch pie dish. Gently transfer it to the dish, shaping it to fit without stretching. Pour in the cherry filling and dot the top with small butter pieces to enrich the filling as it melts. Roll out the second dough disk and either place it over the pie whole or slice into strips to create an elegant lattice.
Step 4: Trim, Crimp, and Egg Wash
Trim any excess dough around the edges and crimp with your fingers or a fork to seal in all the delicious flavors. Brush the entire top crust with your egg wash to give your pie that irresistible golden glow when baked.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your pie at 400°F for 20 minutes to set the crust edge and filling, then reduce to 350°F and continue baking for 35 to 45 minutes. Look for a golden, bubbling filling and crust that’s crisp to the touch. Once out of the oven, let the pie cool for at least 3 hours so the filling sets perfectly before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Irresistible Cherry Pie Recipe That’ll Be Your New Favorite Dessert Recipe
Garnishes
Top your freshly sliced cherry pie with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream to add an element of cool richness that pairs beautifully with the warm, tart cherries. A sprinkle of powdered sugar dusted over the crust adds a pretty touch and extra sweetness.
Side Dishes
This pie shines on its own, but if you’re serving it at a gathering, consider pairing it with a light green salad or a simple fruit compote to complement the dessert without overwhelming it.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your cherry pie in individual ramekins topped with lattice crust for a personal touch. Or, combine warm cherry pie filling with homemade shortbread cookies for a fun, deconstructed dessert board that’s sure to wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days while maintaining flavor and texture, perfect for enjoying a slice the next day.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Irresistible Cherry Pie Recipe That’ll Be Your New Favorite Dessert Recipe on standby, freeze the unbaked pie wrapped tightly in plastic and foil. Bake it straight from frozen, adding extra baking time to ensure it’s hot and bubbly.
Reheating
To revive leftovers, warm slices in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes. This brings the crust back to its flaky glory and warms the filling to the perfect temperature.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries for this pie?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid that could make the filling runny. Frozen cherries actually make this pie a year-round delight.
What if I don’t have almond extract?
You can leave it out or replace it with a bit more vanilla extract. The almond extract adds a subtle cherry-enhancing note but the pie will still be delicious without it.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Precooking the crust is not necessary here, but chilling the dough before baking and using cornstarch to thicken the filling helps keep the crust crisp and sturdy.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
This classic recipe relies on all-purpose flour for texture, but you can experiment with a gluten-free baking blend. Just be mindful the crust texture might differ slightly.
How long does the pie need to cool before serving?
Cooling for at least 3 hours allows the filling to set properly, making slicing neat and clean with perfect, jammy consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Irresistible Cherry Pie Recipe That’ll Be Your New Favorite Dessert Recipe isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors and comforting textures all wrapped up in a golden crust. Once you try it, you’ll see why it becomes a treasured recipe, bringing joy and warmth to any table. So go ahead, bake it for your next gathering or a quiet night in—you deserve this slice of happiness.
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Irresistible Cherry Pie Recipe That’ll Be Your New Favorite Dessert Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This irresistible cherry pie recipe combines a flaky, buttery crust with a sweet and tangy cherry filling, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. Fresh or thawed cherries are coated in a blend of sugar and cornstarch, enhanced with hints of lemon and almond extract, then baked to golden perfection with a glossy egg-wash finish. Let it cool before slicing to enjoy a classic homemade treat that will quickly become your new favorite dessert.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for rolling
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water
Cherry Filling
- 5 cups pitted sweet cherries (fresh or frozen and thawed)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
Finishing Touch
- 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Make the Pie Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing just enough to form a dough. Divide the dough into two disks, wrap each in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare the Oven and Filling: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In another bowl, combine the pitted cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt. Toss until the cherries are evenly coated and the mixture is well blended.
- Roll Out Bottom Crust: On a floured surface, roll out one disk of chilled dough into a circle large enough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the dough carefully into the pie dish, gently pressing it to fit without stretching.
- Fill the Pie: Pour the cherry filling into the prepared pie crust and dot the top with small pieces of butter to add richness.
- Top Crust Assembly: Roll out the second dough disk and either cover the pie fully or cut into strips to create a lattice pattern. Trim any excess dough from the edges and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the entire surface of the top crust with the beaten egg wash to achieve a golden, shiny finish after baking.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes. Then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 35 to 45 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool Completely: Allow the pie to cool for at least 3 hours on a wire rack before slicing to let the filling set properly. Serve and enjoy your homemade cherry pie!
Notes
- Place a baking sheet under the pie to catch any drips and prevent oven messes.
- For a brighter, more vibrant flavor, you can add up to 2 tablespoons of additional lemon juice to the cherry filling.
- If using frozen cherries, ensure they are fully thawed and well drained to avoid excess liquid that could make the filling runny.
