The Perfect Homemade Cherry Pie Recipe for Sweet Summer Bliss

Sweet summer memories dance through every slice of this classic homemade cherry pie that captures pure nostalgia.

Ripe cherries burst with vibrant flavor, transforming simple ingredients into a delectable dessert.

Baking this treat connects us to generations of home cooks who perfected their craft.

Crisp pastry and juicy fruit create a harmony of textures that feels both comforting and exciting.

Fresh cherries picked at peak ripeness make all the difference in creating an extraordinary pie.

Warm from the oven, each golden-crusted slice promises a moment of pure deliciousness that might just become your new favorite summer tradition.

Let’s bake something magical together.

What Makes Homemade Cherry Pie So Irresistible

• Savor Homemade Comfort: This cherry pie delivers nostalgic, warm flavors that remind you of grandma's classic baking with minimal kitchen skills required.
• Quick and Simple Preparation: With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can create a delicious dessert without complicated techniques or professional baking experience.
• Perfect for Sharing: Whether it's a family gathering, potluck, or weekend dessert, this pie serves multiple people and creates moments of joy around the table with its beautiful golden crust and vibrant cherry filling.
• Customize with Ease: Bakers can personalize the recipe by adjusting sweetness, adding spices like cinnamon, or experimenting with different fruit combinations to make the pie uniquely their own.

Fresh Ingredients for Classic Homemade Cherry Pie

• All-Purpose Flour: A fundamental ingredient that provides structure for the pie crust.
• Unsalted Butter, Shortening: Cold fats that create flaky and tender layers in the pie crust.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the pie crust.
• Ice Water: Helps bind the crust ingredients together without developing gluten.

• Fresh Cherries: The star ingredient that provides the primary flavor and texture of the pie.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cherry filling and balances the fruit's natural tartness.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the cherry filling and creates a smooth, glossy consistency.

• Almond Extract, Lemon Juice: Adds depth and brightness to the cherry filling.
• Egg: Used for brushing the pie crust to create a golden, shiny exterior.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth filling texture.

Step-by-Step Directions to Bake Homemade Cherry Pie

Step 1: Prepare The Oven

Heat your oven to a toasty 425F (220C) to ensure a perfectly golden crust.

Step 2: Cook The Cherry Filling

• Fresh cherries
• Granulated sugar
• Cornstarch
• Almond extract
• Lemon juice
• Pinch of salt

Simmer the mixture over medium heat, stirring consistently until the filling transforms into a thick, glossy consistency.

This should take about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Craft The Pie Base

Gently roll out the first pie crust and carefully transfer it into a 9-inch pie pan.

Pour the luscious cherry filling into the prepared crust.

Step 4: Add Buttery Goodness

Strategically dot the cherry filling with small butter pieces to enhance the flavor and richness.

Step 5: Create The Pie Top

Roll out the second pie crust and drape it over the filled pie.

Carefully crimp the edges to create a tight seal.

Cut several decorative slits across the top to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 6: Apply A Gorgeous Glaze

Brush the top crust with beaten egg to achieve a beautiful, glossy golden-brown finish.

Step 7: Bake To Perfection

Slide the pie into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes.

Look for a rich golden-brown crust and bubbling filling as signs of completion.

Step 8: Cool And Serve

Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing and serving to let the filling set properly.

Expert Tips for a Flawless Homemade Cherry Pie

• Select fresh, deep red cherries that are firm and plump for the best flavor and texture in your pie.
• Adjust cornstarch amount to achieve desired pie filling consistency – less for a runnier filling, more for a thicker set.
• Sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs or ground almonds on the bottom crust before adding filling to absorb excess moisture.
• Add a splash of kirsch or brandy to the cherry filling for a sophisticated, rich taste that complements the fruit.
• Instead of a solid top crust, try weaving strips of dough for an elegant, traditional pie presentation that allows steam to escape.

Creative Twists to Elevate Your Cherry Pie

• Berry Bliss Pie: Swap cherries with mixed berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a vibrant fruity filling.
• Gluten-Free Cherry Delight: Use almond flour or gluten-free pie crust mix to create a celiac-friendly version of the classic pie.
• Vegan Cherry Classic: Replace butter with coconut oil, use plant-based egg wash, and create a dairy-free pie crust using vegetable shortening.
• Low-Sugar Cherry Option: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reducing overall sugar content while maintaining delicious flavor.

Serving Ideas to Show Off Your Homemade Cherry Pie

• Cherry Pie Slice of Comfort: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a classic dessert experience that melts in your mouth and balances the pie's tartness.
• Breakfast Twist: Pair a slice with morning coffee or tea, transforming this traditional dessert into a delightful breakfast treat that feels indulgent yet satisfying.
• Picnic Perfect Companion: Pack individual slices in portable containers for outdoor gatherings, making it an easy-to-transport dessert that brings joy to any summer celebration.
• Rustic Presentation Pro: Dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh cherries on the side to create an Instagram-worthy dessert that looks as amazing as it tastes.

How to Keep Homemade Cherry Pie Fresh and Delicious

• Store leftover cherry pie covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, keeping the texture and flavor intact.
• Wrap the entire cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months without losing its delicious taste.
• Wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag, and store for convenient single-serving enjoyment up to 2 months.
• Warm refrigerated or thawed pie slices in a preheated oven at 350F for 10-15 minutes, restoring the crispy crust and warm, gooey filling perfectly.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, frozen cherries work great. Thaw and drain them before cooking to prevent excess liquid in the pie filling.

• How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?

Blind bake the bottom crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling, and sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs or ground nuts to absorb moisture.

• What if I don't have almond extract?

Substitute with vanilla extract or use a bit of amaretto liqueur for a similar depth of flavor. If you prefer, you can also skip the extract entirely.

• How can I tell if the pie filling is properly thickened?

The filling should coat the back of a spoon and leave a clear path when you run your finger through it. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

Homemade Cherry Pie Recipe

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4.9 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Grandma’s classic cherry pie blends sweet-tart cherries with buttery, flaky crust in a nostalgic dessert. Generations of family memories emerge with each delectable slice served warm from the oven.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fruits:

• 2 cups (473 milliliters) fresh or frozen pitted cherries

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (30 grams) cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Flavor Enhancers and Wash:

• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to a searing 425F (220C), preparing for a delectable cherry pie creation.
2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, blend fresh cherries with sugar, cornstarch, almond extract, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt, stirring constantly over medium heat until the mixture transforms into a luscious, thick compote, approximately 10 minutes.
3. Gently drape the first pastry crust into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring smooth coverage of the pan’s interior.
4. Pour the glossy cherry filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly across the surface.
5. Scatter small nuggets of butter strategically across the filling for added richness.
6. Carefully lay the second pastry crust atop the filling, artfully crimping the edges to create a tight seal and elegantly slice several steam vents into the top layer.
7. Delicately brush the pie’s surface with beaten egg, creating a radiant, golden sheen.
8. Slide the pie into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, watching for a burnished golden crust and effervescent filling.
9. Remove from the oven and allow the pie to rest and settle, letting the flavors meld and intensify before serving.

Notes

• Adjust sweetness by tasting cherries before cooking, as some varieties are naturally sweeter or more tart.
• For a gluten-free version, swap traditional pie crust with almond flour or gluten-free pastry dough to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Create decorative lattice top by cutting strips and weaving them over filling for a classic, professional-looking pie presentation.
• Prevent soggy bottom crust by sprinkling ground almonds or breadcrumbs before adding cherry filling, which helps absorb excess moisture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 291 kcal
• Sugar: 30 g
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg