Cherry pies have a special place in the hearts of dessert lovers. This charming dessert combines the sweet, tart flavor of cherries with a flaky, buttery crust that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s summer basking in the sun or a cozy winter gathering, cherry pie is an excellent choice. It’s not just a dessert; it evokes memories of family gatherings, holiday feasts, and backyard cookouts. Trust me when I say, the aroma filling your kitchen as this pie bakes will have everyone gathered around, eagerly awaiting a slice!
What Makes This Recipe Stand Out
If you’ve ever pondered why this cherry pie recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen, let me convince you. First, it’s surprisingly simple to make, requiring just a handful of pantry staples. It’s a budget-friendly dessert that can elevate any occasion, be it a Sunday dinner or a festive celebration. The hand-rolled crust pales in comparison to store-bought varieties, as homemade crust is not just fresh; it also has a unique texture and flavor that store-bought simply cannot match. Plus, the ingredient list allows for creativity—think of adding a bit of almond extract or experimenting with spices!
“This cherry pie is the highlight of our family gatherings! The flaky crust and the bursting cherry flavor are a perfect match. It’s an absolute crowd-pleaser!” – Mark, cherry pie enthusiast.
Preparing Cherry Pie
Making a cherry pie from scratch can be a rewarding experience, and it’s easier than you might think. The process is divided into two main parts: making the crust and preparing the cherry filling. You’ll start with creating a buttery pie crust, which sets a beautiful stage for the star ingredient: the juicy cherries. After chilling your dough, you’ll mix your filling and assemble the pie before it takes a hot trip to the oven.
Gather These Items
To create your delectable cherry pie, you’ll need:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water
- 4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sprinkling on top)
Feel free to swap out the almond extract or spices based on your personal taste preferences!
