Fresh Cherry Pie

Fresh Cherry Pie is a delightful dessert that showcases the vibrant flavors of summer. This pie is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or casual family dinners. With its flaky crust and sweet cherry filling, it will impress your guests and leave them craving more. The use of fresh cherries elevates this classic recipe, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: Fresh cherries provide a burst of sweetness that balances perfectly with the buttery crust.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled as a refreshing treat.
• Homemade Goodness: Making your own pie from scratch brings satisfaction and allows you to control the ingredients.
• Perfect for Summer: The bright colors and fruity taste make this pie an ideal summer dessert.
• Show-Stopping Presentation: Its beautiful double-crust design makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any table.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting on your Fresh Cherry Pie, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch pie plate
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry blender or two knives
• Rolling pin
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch pie plate: Ensures even cooking and provides the right shape for your pie.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough uniformly, creating a perfect crust.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients without spilling, making cleanup easier.

Ingredients

A stunning double-crusted cherry pie using fresh cherries for a show-stopping summer dessert!

• 6 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• pinch of salt
• 2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold & cubed
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

How to Make Fresh Cherry Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, add the pitted cherries, lemon juice, vanilla extract, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
Bring to a simmer.
Reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 10 minutes while stirring frequently until thickened.
Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Generously butter a 9-inch pie plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Pie Crust

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar.
Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or two knives until crumbly.
Add cold water and knead by hand until combined.
Divide dough into two equal balls.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Flatten each ball slightly and wrap in plastic wrap.
Place in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

Remove dough from the fridge. On a lightly floured surface:
Roll each ball into a disc about an inch larger than the pie plate.
Ensure thickness is about 1/8 inch.

Step 6: Transfer Dough to Pie Plate

Gently roll one disc onto your rolling pin.
Place it over one side of the pie plate and unroll to fit inside. Press down around edges.

Step 7: Fill with Cherry Mixture

Pour cooled cherry filling into the prepared crust.

Step 8: Add Top Crust

Roll out the second ball of dough to match size of the first disc.
Place over cherry filling, trim edges, and crimp together using your preferred method. Cut slits in top crust for steam release.

Step 9: Apply Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together egg and water. Brush over top crust and sprinkle with sugar.

Step 10: Bake

Place pie on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake for:
Initial bake time of 30 minutes; rotate after 15 minutes.
Cover edges with foil if they brown too quickly.
Bake an additional 30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.

Step 11: Cool Before Serving

Remove from oven and take off foil. Let cool on a wire rack for at least two hours before slicing. Enjoy your homemade Fresh Cherry Pie!

How to Serve Fresh Cherry Pie

Fresh cherry pie is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it warm or cold, there are numerous serving suggestions that can enhance its deliciousness and make it even more enjoyable.

A La Mode

• Serve a slice of fresh cherry pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a classic combination. The creamy texture of the ice cream perfectly complements the tartness of the cherries.

Whipped Cream

• Top your pie with freshly whipped cream for added sweetness and lightness. This simple addition elevates the dessert and adds a lovely contrast to the flaky crust.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Enhance your serving by adding slices of fresh fruit, like strawberries or blueberries, on the side. This not only adds color but also provides additional flavors that pair well with cherries.

Chocolate Drizzle

• For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the top can add an indulgent touch. It creates a rich contrast to the bright cherry filling.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve slices alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso. The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the pie beautifully, making for a perfect after-dinner treat.

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How to Perfect Fresh Cherry Pie

To ensure your fresh cherry pie turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use ripe cherries: Make sure your cherries are at peak ripeness for maximum flavor and sweetness.
• Pre-cook the filling: Simmering the cherries before baking helps thicken the filling and enhances their flavor.
• Chill the dough: Keeping your pie crust dough cold helps achieve that flaky texture everyone loves.
• Cover edges with foil: Protecting the edges from burning by wrapping them in foil during baking will keep your crust golden brown.
• Let it cool: Allowing your pie to cool completely before slicing helps set the filling and makes serving easier.
• Experiment with spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile and give your pie a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Fresh Cherry Pie

Pairing side dishes with fresh cherry pie can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options that complement this classic treat:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A timeless pairing, vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that balances the tart flavors of the cherry filling.
2. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad made from seasonal fruits offers a bright contrast to the richness of the pie.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide savory notes that harmonize well with sweet desserts.
4. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti makes an excellent accompaniment for coffee or tea served alongside dessert.
5. Coffee or Espresso: A cup of rich coffee serves as a wonderful palate cleanser and enhances enjoyment of sweet treats.
6. Chocolate Covered Strawberries: These decadent bites bring extra sweetness and elegance to any dessert table when served with pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making fresh cherry pie can be rewarding, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Filling: Cooking the cherry filling too long can cause it to become mushy. Aim for a thickened consistency after about 10 minutes of simmering.
• Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping the chilling step can lead to a tough crust. Always refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
• Using Warm Butter: If your butter is too warm when mixing, the crust won’t be flaky. Use cold butter and cut it into the flour until crumbly.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at incorrect temperatures may result in an undercooked or burnt pie. Preheat your oven properly before baking.
• Not Venting the Top Crust: Forgetting to make slits in the top crust can trap steam, leading to a soggy pie. Make sure to cut several small slits for proper ventilation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pie in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Fresh Cherry Pie

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Fresh Cherry Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat uncovered for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for 30-45 seconds; cover with a paper towel to avoid splatters.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes or until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making fresh cherry pie.

How do I choose fresh cherries for my pie?

Look for cherries that are firm, plump, and have vibrant color. Avoid any that are soft or have blemishes.

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in your filling.

What makes this Fresh Cherry Pie recipe special?

This recipe features a flaky double crust and uses fresh cherries, enhancing flavor and texture that store-bought options can’t match.

How long does it take to make Fresh Cherry Pie?

The total time is about 3 hours and 30 minutes, including prep time of 30 minutes and cooking time of around 3 hours.

Can I customize this Fresh Cherry Pie recipe?

Absolutely! You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg or mix in other fruits such as blueberries or raspberries for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Fresh cherry pie is not only a beautiful dessert but also a versatile option for any occasion. Its balance of sweet and tart flavors appeals to many palates. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or mix-ins. Give this recipe a try; you might just find your new favorite summer dessert!