The BEST Cherry Pie

This cherry pie recipe is simply the best! The BEST Cherry Pie features a sweet and juicy cherry filling, which can be made with either fresh or frozen cherries. The flaky, buttery crust is a perfect match for the vibrant filling, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a gathering, or simply craving something delicious, this cherry pie will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet cherries with a hint of lemon and vanilla creates a delightful burst of flavor.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you’ll have this pie ready in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use fresh or frozen cherries based on what you have available; both yield fantastic results.
• Beautiful Presentation: A golden crust brushed with egg wash adds an eye-catching shine that makes this pie photo-worthy.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it at parties, family gatherings, or enjoy it as a comforting treat after dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To create the BEST Cherry Pie, having the right tools is essential. They make preparation easier and ensure better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pie dish
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Pastry brush
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie dish: A good-quality pie dish helps achieve an even bake and perfectly shaped crust.
• Rolling pin: This tool allows you to roll out your dough evenly for a uniform crust.
• Pastry brush: It’s essential for applying egg wash to give your crust that beautiful finish.

Ingredients

To make the BEST Cherry Pie, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cherry Filling

• 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)

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 Topping

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

How to Make The BEST Cherry Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, salt, and almond extract if using.
2. Gently stir until well mixed. Set aside to allow flavors to meld while preparing the crust.

Step 2: Make the Pie Crust

1. In another bowl, mix together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add cold butter cubes into the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or fork to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice-cold water one tablespoon at a time until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork it.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. Divide the dough in half; shape each half into a disc.
2. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Once chilled, roll out one disc on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pour the cherry filling into the rolled-out crust in your pie dish.
3. Dot with unsalted butter before covering with the second rolled-out disc of dough.

Step 5: Finish and Bake

1. Trim excess dough from edges and crimp to seal.
2. Brush the top crust with an egg wash made from beaten egg and milk.
3. Sprinkle coarse sugar on top if desired for added sweetness.
4. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for about 50 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy creating this delectable dessert that truly is The BEST Cherry Pie!

How to Serve The BEST Cherry Pie

Serving cherry pie is a delightful experience that can be enhanced in various ways. Here are some ideas to elevate your dessert presentation and flavor.

A La Mode

• Serve warm slices of cherry pie topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination. The creamy ice cream balances the tartness of the cherries beautifully.

Whipped Cream

• Top your cherry pie with freshly whipped cream for a light, airy contrast. You can sweeten the cream slightly or add a dash of vanilla for extra flavor.

Fresh Cherries

• Garnish each slice with a few fresh cherries. This adds a pop of color and enhances the cherry flavor in every bite.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate on top for an indulgent twist. The chocolate complements the sweetness of the cherry filling perfectly.

Mint Leaves

• Add a sprig of fresh mint as a garnish. It not only adds color but also provides a refreshing aroma that enhances the overall experience.

How to Perfect The BEST Cherry Pie

Making the perfect cherry pie takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out wonderfully every time.

• Choose ripe cherries: Use fresh, ripe cherries when possible for the best flavor. If using frozen, ensure they are thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture.
• Don’t skip the cornstarch: This ingredient helps thicken the filling, giving it that desired consistency without being runny. Adjust based on how juicy your cherries are.
• Chill your dough: Always chill your pie crust before rolling it out. This helps create a flaky texture as it bakes.
• Use an egg wash: Brush the top crust with an egg wash made of egg and milk before baking. It gives the crust a beautiful golden color and shine.
• Let it cool: Allow your pie to cool for at least two hours after baking. This helps set the filling and makes slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for The BEST Cherry Pie

Pairing side dishes with cherry pie can enhance your meal’s overall enjoyment. Here’s a list of complementary options to consider.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances out the tartness of cherries.
2. Coffee
   A warm cup of coffee brings out the flavors in desserts while providing a comforting contrast to sweet treats.
3. Cheese Plate
   A selection of cheeses, particularly mild varieties like brie or gouda, offers a savory balance to sweet cherry pie.
4. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can refresh your palate between bites of rich pie.
5. Pecan Tarts
   These nutty tarts provide crunch and richness, making them an excellent sidekick to fruity desserts like cherry pie.
6. Lemonade
   A glass of refreshing lemonade adds brightness and acidity, enhancing the dessert’s flavors without overpowering them.
7. Savory Scones
   Pairing with herb-infused scones can add an interesting savory aspect, creating a balanced meal experience.
8. Yogurt Parfait
   Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers both creaminess and crunch, complementing the textures found in cherry pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The BEST Cherry Pie, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect pie.

• Skipping the pitting process: Ensure all cherries are pitted before use. Unpitted cherries can ruin the texture and flavor of your pie.
• Ignoring the resting time for the dough: Allowing your pie crust to rest in the fridge helps it become flaky. Skipping this step can lead to a tough crust.
• Overfilling the pie: Adding too many cherries can cause the filling to overflow during baking. Stick to the recommended amount for best results.
• Not using enough cornstarch: A good amount of cornstarch is crucial for thickening the filling. Without it, your pie will be runny.
• Forgetting to ventilate the crust: Cutting slits in the top crust allows steam to escape, preventing sogginess. Always remember this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cherry pie in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The BEST Cherry Pie

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.
• The pie can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating The BEST Cherry Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-60 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat with a lid on, warming it through for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The BEST Cherry Pie different?

The BEST Cherry Pie stands out due to its perfectly balanced sweet and tart filling, made from fresh or frozen cherries, combined with a flaky crust that melts in your mouth.

Can I use frozen cherries in The BEST Cherry Pie?

Yes, you can! Frozen cherries work wonderfully and save you time on prep. Just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before using.

How do I know when my cherry pie is done?

Look for a golden brown crust and bubbling filling. The filling should be visibly thickened, indicating that it’s ready to enjoy!

Can I customize The BEST Cherry Pie?

Absolutely! You can experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg or replacing some cherries with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Cherry Pie is not only delicious but also versatile. With its sweet and juicy filling paired with a flaky crust, this dessert is sure to impress at any gathering. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or spices; your creativity will make it even more special!