The BEST Cherry Pie

This cherry pie recipe is simply the BEST Cherry Pie you’ll ever make! With a sweet and juicy filling made from fresh or frozen cherries, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. The flaky, buttery crust complements the vibrant cherry flavor, while an egg wash gives it a beautiful golden-brown finish. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just craving something delicious, this pie will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This cherry pie recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced baking skills.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet cherries and buttery crust creates a mouthwatering dessert everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can use either fresh or frozen cherries depending on availability, making it suitable year-round.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From family gatherings to holiday celebrations, this pie fits right in at any table.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden crust and bright filling make for a stunning dessert that will wow your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking the BEST Cherry Pie, gather your essential tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Pie dish
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl helps you combine ingredients without spills.
• Rolling pin: This tool ensures an even thickness for your pie crust, making it flaky and uniform.
• Pastry brush: Use it to apply the egg wash for that shiny, golden finish on your crust.

Ingredients

For the Cherry Filling

• 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)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for dotting on the filling)

For the Pie Crust

• 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

For the Egg Wash

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon milk
• Coarse sugar or granulated sugar (for sprinkling, optional)

How to Make The BEST Cherry Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. Add the pitted cherries.
2. Mix in granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, salt, and almond extract if desired.
3. Let this mixture sit while preparing the pie crust.

Step 2: Make the Pie Crust

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add cold butter cubes into the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until crumbly.
3. Gradually add ice-cold water until dough forms. Do not overwork it; just combine until moistened.

Step 3: Roll Out Dough

1. Divide dough in half; shape each into a disk.
2. Roll out one disk on a floured surface until it’s about 12 inches in diameter.
3. Carefully place it into your pie dish.

Step 4: Fill with Cherry Mixture

1. Pour the prepared cherry filling into the prepared pie crust.
2. Dot with unsalted butter over the top of the filling.

Step 5: Top Crust & Bake

1. Roll out the second disk of dough for your top crust.
2. Cut slits for steam vents or create a lattice pattern if desired.
3. Place on top of filled pie; seal edges by crimping with fingers or a fork.

Step 6: Apply Egg Wash & Sugar

1. Whisk together egg and milk in a small bowl.
2. Brush over top crust lightly; sprinkle coarse sugar if using.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake for 15 minutes before reducing temperature to 375°F (190°C). Continue baking for another 50–60 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Let cool before serving to allow juices to set! Enjoy your slice of THE BEST Cherry Pie!

How to Serve The BEST Cherry Pie

Serving your cherry pie can elevate the experience and delight your guests. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this delicious dessert.

A la Mode

• Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast to the tart cherries.

Whipped Cream Delight

• Add a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for added sweetness and texture.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Serve with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries to enhance the fruity flavor and add color.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle chocolate syrup over each slice for a rich, indulgent twist that complements the cherries.

Warm with Custard

• Pair warm slices with a side of custard sauce for a luscious, creamy addition.

How to Perfect The BEST Cherry Pie

To achieve the perfect cherry pie, follow these simple tips that will enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Use quality cherries: Fresh or frozen sweet cherries yield the best flavor. Ensure they are ripe and juicy for that signature taste.

• Don’t skip the chilling: Chill your pie crust before baking. This helps maintain its flakiness during cooking.

• Adjust sugar to taste: Depending on cherry sweetness, you may want to adjust sugar levels. Taste your filling before adding all the sugar.

• Vent your crust: Make slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape, which prevents sogginess and ensures even cooking.

• Egg wash for shine: Brush the top crust with an egg wash for a beautiful golden finish once baked.

Best Side Dishes for The BEST Cherry Pie

Pairing side dishes with your cherry pie can create a balanced meal. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that brings creaminess to contrast with the tartness of cherries.

2. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese complements the sweet flavors beautifully.

3. Salad Greens: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the pie.

4. Roasted Nuts: Serve a mix of roasted almonds or walnuts for a crunchy texture that pairs well with dessert.

5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate after rich bites of pie.

6. Coffee or Tea: A hot beverage enhances dessert time and provides warmth alongside your cherry pie’s chill.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect cherry pie can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using unripe cherries: Always opt for sweet, ripe cherries. Unripe cherries can lead to a tart filling that doesn’t taste great.
• Skipping the cornstarch: Cornstarch is essential for thickening the filling. Without it, your pie may end up runny.
• Overworking the dough: If you knead the pie crust too much, it can become tough. Handle it gently to keep it flaky.
• Not chilling the butter: Cold butter creates a flaky crust. Make sure your butter is well-chilled before mixing it into the flour.
• Forgetting the egg wash: An egg wash gives your crust a beautiful golden color. Don’t skip this step for visual appeal!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep fresh.
• The pie will last for about 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The BEST Cherry Pie

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure it’s completely cooled before freezing.

Reheating The BEST Cherry Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm slowly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The BEST Cherry Pie?

A perfect balance of sweetness from ripe cherries and a flaky, buttery crust makes The BEST Cherry Pie irresistible.

Can I use frozen cherries for The BEST Cherry Pie?

Yes! Frozen cherries work great. Just thaw them and drain excess juice before using them in your filling.

How do I prevent my cherry pie from being runny?

Ensure you use cornstarch or another thickening agent to help absorb excess moisture from the cherries.

Can I customize The BEST Cherry Pie recipe?

Absolutely! You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor or mix different types of fruits for a unique twist.

How long does The BEST Cherry Pie last?

When stored properly, it lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator and three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for The BEST Cherry Pie is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different fruits or spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; its sweet and juicy filling paired with a perfectly flaky crust is sure to impress!