This homemade cherry pie is a sweet treat that’s easy to whip up! With juicy cherries and a flaky crust, it’s perfect for summer or anytime you crave dessert.
Baking this pie always takes me back to family gatherings. Plus, the best part? You can serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream. Who can resist that? 🍒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherries: Fresh pitted cherries are perfect for this pie. If they are not in season, frozen cherries work just as well. They are usually picked and frozen at peak ripeness, so don’t worry about losing that flavor!
Sugar: Granulated sugar is the go-to for sweetness. However, you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor, or a sugar substitute like stevia if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option.
Cornstarch: This is crucial for thickening the filling. If you’re out, you can substitute it with equal parts of flour, but be aware it may not thicken as effectively. Tapioca starch is also a great option.
Pie Crust: Store-bought pie crusts are super convenient! If you’re looking for a homemade touch, prepare your crust from scratch using flour, butter, and water. You can also use graham cracker crust for a twist.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Pie Crust?
Preparing the pie crust might seem tricky, but it’s really about patience. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- For a store-bought crust, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before rolling it out. This makes it easier to stretch.
- If you’re making your own, keep the butter cold and cut it into the flour quickly to form a crumbly texture. Add just enough cold water to bring it together.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling. This helps prevent shrinking during baking.
- Roll gently and evenly from the center out. Ensure it fits your pie plate, with some excess for crimping.
With a little care, you’ll have a lovely crust that makes your cherry pie extra special!
Best Easy Homemade Cherry Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, enhances cherry flavor)
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts) or homemade pie dough
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling on crust)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cherry pie recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 45-50 minutes of baking time. Additionally, it’s best to let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before serving, so plan around 3 hours total to enjoy this delicious dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the pie bakes evenly and the crust gets nicely golden.
2. Make the Cherry Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, almond extract (if you’re using it), and salt. Stir everything together until well mixed, then set it aside so the flavors can blend.
3. Prepare the First Crust:
Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Make sure it covers the bottom and the sides of the plate fully. This is where you’ll pour your delicious cherry filling!
4. Add the Cherry Filling:
Gently pour the cherry mixture into the crust. Spread it evenly. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter to add extra richness to your pie.
5. Prepare the Top Crust:
Now, roll out the second pie crust. You have two options here: place it whole over the filling or cut it into strips to create a lovely lattice top. If you opt for a lattice top, weave the strips over and under for a beautiful design!
6. Seal the Edges:
Trim any excess dough hanging over the edge of the pie plate. Press the edges together to seal, and crimp them using a fork or your fingers for a decorative touch.
7. Add Egg Wash:
Brush the top crust with the beaten egg to give it a lovely sheen while baking. If you like, sprinkle some coarse sugar on top for extra sweetness and crunch!
8. Vent the Top Crust:
If you used a whole crust, cut a few small slits in the top to allow steam to escape while the pie bakes. This is important for preventing a soggy pie!
9. Bake the Pie:
Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and put it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling and fragrant.
10. Cool Before Serving:
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 2 hours. This allows the filling to set up nicely, making it easier to slice and serve.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the pie and serve it warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. Enjoy your homemade cherry pie!
Happy baking!
FAQ about Homemade Cherry Pie
Can I Use Frozen Cherries Instead of Fresh Ones?
Yes, frozen cherries work great for this recipe! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the pie filling to prevent a watery pie.
How Can I Make My Pie Crust Flakier?
For a flakier crust, use cold butter and ice-cold water when making your dough. Avoid overworking the dough; mix just until combined. If using store-bought crusts, let them warm slightly for better handling without overworking.
How Do I Store Leftover Cherry Pie?
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap the whole pie or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Substitute Other Fruits for Cherries?
Absolutely! This pie recipe works well with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or a mixed berry filling. Adjust the sugar and thickeners based on the sweetness and juiciness of the substitute fruit.
