Cherry Pie

Cherry Pie Recipe – Easy, Delicious & Classic Dessert Idea

ByBella Skye
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Cherry Pie

Cherry pie is one of those timeless desserts that instantly evokes comfort and celebration. Its vibrant red filling, sweet-tart flavor, and golden, flaky crust make it a standout among pies and pastries. The balance of juicy cherries with a buttery pastry creates a harmony of textures and tastes that few desserts can rival.

More Hearty Desserts

What sets cherry pie apart is its ability to be both homey and sophisticated. It’s a dessert that can be served at a casual family dinner or a formal holiday table, and it never fails to impress. Each bite offers a burst of cherry flavor complemented by the crisp, tender crust. Using fresh cherries elevates the dessert further, producing a naturally sweet and lightly tangy profile that canned or frozen alternatives can only mimic.

Beyond taste, cherry pie carries tradition. In the United States, it’s often associated with Americana, summer picnics, and family gatherings. But beyond nostalgia, a well-made cherry pie is a testament to careful technique, precise baking, and attention to flavor balance. This recipe embraces both the art and science of baking, giving you a delicious and visually stunning result that your family and friends will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cherry pie recipe fresh cherries combines classic techniques with practical tips for home bakers. Here’s why it stands out:

  • Perfectly Balanced Flavor – By using fresh cherries and a precise amount of sugar, the tartness and sweetness balance beautifully, producing a bright, lively flavor that isn’t overly sweet.
  • Flaky, Buttery Crust – The crust in this recipe achieves a delicate flakiness while holding the juicy filling without becoming soggy, thanks to chef-level tips like chilling the dough and using a precise fat-to-flour ratio.
  • Reliably Consistent Results – With step-by-step guidance, including techniques for lattice topping and preventing bubbling, even home bakers without professional training can achieve bakery-quality results.
  • Versatile for Other Fillings – While cherry is the star here, this crust technique and preparation method work wonderfully with different pie fillings, such as blueberry, peach, or mixed berry. This is a recipe you can return to again and again.
  • Aesthetic Appeal – The golden crust, bubbling cherry filling, and optional lattice design make this pie not only a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes. It’s perfect for sharing on social media or presenting at special occasions.
  • Chef Secrets Included – This recipe includes insider tips that chefs use to enhance flavor, texture, and appearance, ensuring a professional-quality dessert in your own kitchen.
Cherry Pie

Preparation and Cooking Time, Also Serving

  • Preparation Time: 35 minutes
  • Chilling Dough: 1 hour
  • Cooking Time: 45–50 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including dough chilling)
  • Servings: 8 generous slices

Ingredients

For the Pie Dough

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 6–8 tablespoons ice water

For the Cherry Filling

  • 5 cups fresh pitted cherries
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Topping

  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon sugar for sprinkling

Substitution Notes:

  • Butter can be replaced with a 50/50 blend of butter and shortening for extra flakiness.
  • Granulated sugar can be partially replaced with brown sugar for a deeper caramel note.
  • Almond extract is optional but enhances the cherry flavor.
Cherry Pie

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mini Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Dough

Begin by combining the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Cut in the chilled, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking the dough to ensure a tender, flaky texture. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour to chill. This step is crucial for maintaining the dough’s structure and creating a buttery, flakey crust.

Mini Apple Pie

Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling

Pit the fresh cherries and place them in a large bowl. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt, stirring until smooth. Add the cherries and cook gently for three to four minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and optional almond extract. Allow the filling to cool slightly before assembling the pie. This ensures the cherries retain their vibrant color and flavor while producing a luscious, thick filling.

Mini Apple Pie

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Lightly flour a clean surface and roll one of the chilled dough discs into a circle approximately 12 inches in diameter, large enough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Carefully transfer the rolled dough to the pie dish, pressing gently to fit without stretching. Trim excess edges while leaving a small border for crimping later. Roll the second disc for the top crust or lattice design, depending on preference. Proper rolling ensures even baking and a uniform crust thickness.

Mini Apple Pie

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Pour the cherry filling into the prepared bottom crust, spreading it evenly. If using a full top crust, place it over the filling, trim excess dough, and crimp the edges to seal. For a lattice top, cut the second dough disc into strips and weave them over the filling, pressing edges to secure. Sealing the top properly prevents leakage and ensures the pie maintains a clean, professional appearance after baking.

Mini Apple Pie

Step 5: Egg Wash and Sugar

Lightly beat an egg and brush it over the top crust or lattice to create a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle sugar evenly over the surface to add subtle sweetness and a slightly crunchy texture. This finishing touch enhances both the flavor and appearance of your pie, giving it that classic, bakery-quality look.

Mini Apple Pie

Step 6: Bake the Pie

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 25–30 minutes until the crust is golden and the cherry filling is bubbling. Once baked, allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling ensures the filling sets properly, making slicing cleaner and preserving the pie’s visual appeal.

How to Serve

Serve the pie warm or at room temperature for the best flavor. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. Slice with a sharp knife, cleaning between cuts for perfect presentation. For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar. Cherry pie is as visually appealing as it is delicious, making it ideal for family gatherings, celebrations, or casual desserts.

Additional Tips

  • Chill the dough before rolling to prevent shrinking and enhance flakiness.
  • Use fresh, firm cherries for the best texture and natural sweetness.
  • Preheating the pie dish slightly helps create a crisp bottom crust.
  • Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to maintain structure.
  • Brush the crust with egg wash mixed with a teaspoon of water or milk for a shiny finish.
Cherry Pie

Recipe Variations

  • Almond Cherry Pie: Add ½ teaspoon almond extract to both crust and filling, and sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking.
  • Chocolate Cherry Pie: Fold ¼ cup mini chocolate chips into the filling for a rich twist.
  • Mini Cherry Tarts: Use this recipe for individual tart shells, perfect for parties or gifting.

Freezing and Storage

  • To Store: Cover cooled pie with plastic wrap; keep at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • To Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic and foil; freeze for up to 3 months.
  • To Reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to refresh the crust’s crispness.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

  • Calories: 360 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 32g
  • Sodium: 180mg

Final Words

Baking a cherry pie at home is not only rewarding but also an experience that hones your baking skills. From creating a tender, flaky crust to crafting a luscious cherry filling, each step teaches precision, patience, and care. This recipe celebrates simple, high-quality ingredients and thoughtful technique. Whether for family dinners, holidays, or special occasions, making your own cherry pie is a statement of love and skill. Once mastered, it opens the door to exploring different pie fillings and other baking recipes with cherries, offering endless possibilities for delicious desserts that impress every time.

FAQ’s

Yes, but thaw and drain them first. You may need to adjust sugar and cornstarch slightly to achieve the correct consistency.

Chill the dough, preheat the pie dish slightly, and avoid adding excess liquid to the filling.

Substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use a flax egg or non-dairy milk for the egg wash.

Allow at least 2–3 hours for the filling to set properly.

Yes, but a homemade crust will enhance flakiness and flavor.

Cherry Pie Recipe - Easy, Delicious & Classic Dessert Idea
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Cherry Pie Recipe – Easy, Delicious & Classic Dessert Idea

Recipe by Bella SkyeCourse: Desserts
Servings

8

servings
Prep time

35

minutes
Cooking time

45

minutes
Calories

360

kcal

Ingredients

  • For the Pie Dough

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 tablespoon sugar

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

  • 6–8 tablespoons ice water

  • For the Cherry Filling

  • 5 cups fresh pitted cherries

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • For the Topping

  • 1 egg, lightly beaten

  • 1 tablespoon sugar for sprinkling

Directions

  • Begin by combining the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Cut in the chilled, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking the dough to ensure a tender, flaky texture. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour to chill. This step is crucial for maintaining the dough’s structure and creating a buttery, flakey crust.
  • Pit the fresh cherries and place them in a large bowl. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt, stirring until smooth. Add the cherries and cook gently for three to four minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and optional almond extract. Allow the filling to cool slightly before assembling the pie. This ensures the cherries retain their vibrant color and flavor while producing a luscious, thick filling.
  • Lightly flour a clean surface and roll one of the chilled dough discs into a circle approximately 12 inches in diameter, large enough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Carefully transfer the rolled dough to the pie dish, pressing gently to fit without stretching. Trim excess edges while leaving a small border for crimping later. Roll the second disc for the top crust or lattice design, depending on preference. Proper rolling ensures even baking and a uniform crust thickness.
  • Pour the cherry filling into the prepared bottom crust, spreading it evenly. If using a full top crust, place it over the filling, trim excess dough, and crimp the edges to seal. For a lattice top, cut the second dough disc into strips and weave them over the filling, pressing edges to secure. Sealing the top properly prevents leakage and ensures the pie maintains a clean, professional appearance after baking.
  • Lightly beat an egg and brush it over the top crust or lattice to create a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle sugar evenly over the surface to add subtle sweetness and a slightly crunchy texture. This finishing touch enhances both the flavor and appearance of your pie, giving it that classic, bakery-quality look.
  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 25–30 minutes until the crust is golden and the cherry filling is bubbling. Once baked, allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling ensures the filling sets properly, making slicing cleaner and preserving the pie’s visual appeal.

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