The aroma of a freshly baked homemade cherry pie wafts through the air like an invitation to indulge in something truly special. Think about it golden crust hugging those juicy, ruby-red cherries just waiting to burst with flavor. Each slice tells a story of summer days spent gathering cherries and laughter shared over warm slices topped with vanilla ice cream.
Reflecting on my childhood, I remember my grandmother’s kitchen filled with warmth and chatter whenever she made her famous homemade cherry pie. The anticipation as we waited for it to cool was nothing short of electric like waiting for Christmas morning! Now, it’s my turn to recreate that magic and share it with all of you.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This homemade cherry pie is incredibly easy to prepare and bursts with delicious flavor
- Its vibrant color makes it a visual delight on any dessert table
- Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, this recipe brings back wonderful memories
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for all occasions!
I remember the first time I made this cherry pie; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how good it turned out!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cherries: Look for ripe cherries that are deep red in color for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Granulated Sugar: Use sugar to balance the tartness of the cherries; adjust according to taste preference.
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for thickening the filling while keeping that perfect texture in your crust.
- Butter: Opt for unsalted butter to control salt levels; it adds richness and flavor to your crust.
- Lemon Juice: A splash brightens up the filling; use freshly squeezed juice for optimal taste.
- Pie Crusts: You can go store-bought or make your own from scratch; both options yield delicious results!
- Cornstarch: This helps thicken your filling; don’t skip it if you want that perfect consistency.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a teaspoon enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grab a large mixing bowl and toss those glorious fresh cherries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should look like a sweet cherry party waiting to happen!
Next up, roll out one of your pie crusts into a 9-inch pie dish. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly round rustic charm is totally in style! Pour in your delightful cherry mixture and spread it evenly. Top it off with dots of butter; this will keep things extra luscious.
Cover with the second crust and crimp those edges together like you’re sealing a treasure chest full of flavor! Cut some slits in the top for steam to escape it’s like giving your pie a little breathing room.
Bake your masterpiece in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it so you don’t end up with an overly bronzed crust!
Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing patience is key here! The tempting aroma will have everyone buzzing while they wait.
Slice into that gorgeous homemade cherry pie and serve warm or at room temperature a scoop of vanilla ice cream is highly encouraged! Your friends will be begging for seconds (or thirds).
This delightful treat is not just food; it’s nostalgia served on a plate! So gather around the table and enjoy every last bite together you’ve earned it!
You Must Know
- A homemade cherry pie is a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer
- The sweet and tart flavor combination creates a perfect balance that will have your taste buds dancing
- Plus, making the crust from scratch adds a personal touch that store-bought pies can’t match
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your crust first, then let it chill while you pit the cherries and make the filling. This way, you’ll save time and ensure a flaky crust.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cherries for blueberries or mix in some almond extract for an extra flavor boost. Get creative and make it your own!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap. To reheat, warm in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes for that just-baked taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your cherries are both sweet and tart for optimal flavor balance
- Use cold butter in your crust to achieve that perfect flakiness
- Always let your pie cool before slicing to prevent a messy serving!
The first time I made a homemade cherry pie, my friends couldn’t believe I actually baked it myself! Their compliments filled my kitchen with warmth, reminding me why I love baking so much.
FAQ
What type of cherries should I use for homemade cherry pie?
Use fresh tart cherries or frozen ones for the best flavor.
Can I make the pie crust ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and refrigerate it up to two days in advance.
How do I know when my cherry pie is done baking?
The filling should bubble, and the crust should be golden brown when it’s ready.
Homemade Cherry Pie
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Homemade Cherry Pie is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors in a flaky crust, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, diced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, mix fresh cherries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Roll out one pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Pour in the cherry mixture and dot with butter.
- Cover with the second crust, crimp edges to seal, and cut slits for steam to escape.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until filling is bubbly and the crust is golden brown. Allow to cool before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
