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Irresistible Cherry Pie Recipe: A Slice of Juicy Bliss
Introduction to Irresistible Cherry Pie Recipe: A Slice of Heaven
There’s something enchanting about a warm slice of irresistible cherry pie that transports you straight to sun-drenched summer days. Imagine a warm, flaky crust cradling juicy, red cherries swimming in a perfectly sweetened, tangy syrup. It’s a dessert that evokes cherished memories—whether it’s baking with family, enjoying a picnic by the lake, or simply treating yourself after a long day at work. This pie is not just a dessert; it’s a slice of tradition, comfort, and happiness all wrapped in one.
What Makes This Cherry Pie So Special?
This irresistible cherry pie stands out due to its combination of fresh ingredients and simple techniques that create an explosion of flavor in every bite. Here’s what makes it memorable:
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Fresh Cherries: Using fresh, ripe cherries is essential. They have a depth of flavor that frozen or canned cherries just can’t replicate. The tartness of real cherries perfectly balances the sweetness, making the filling a flavorful delight.
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Homemade Crust: The buttery, flaky texture of the pie crust elevates the pie to another level. When you make your own crust, you can tailor the thickness, flakiness, and even incorporate flavors like vanilla or almond for a unique twist.
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Lemon Zest: A hint of lemon zest in the filling brightens the flavor of the cherries, enhancing their natural sweetness without overshadowing it. This small addition transforms the pie into something extraordinary.
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Rustic Charm: The beauty of this pie lies not only in its taste but also in its appearance. A few slits for steam venting allow the cherry filling to peek through the golden crust, inviting everyone to take a bite.
Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply to soothe a sweet craving, this cherry pie brings joy and warmth to any table. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful recipe, and get ready to create your very own slice of heaven!
Key Ingredients for Irresistible Cherry Pie
Irresistible cherry pie begins with the freshest ingredients that bring out the natural sweetness of cherries while creating a flaky, buttery crust. Here’s what you need to create that slice of heaven.
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Cherries: Fresh, ripe cherries are crucial for an irresistible pie. I recommend using Bing cherries for their deep color and sweet flavor. If they’re out of season, frozen cherries work nicely as long as they’re pitted and drained.
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Sugar: Balance the tartness of the cherries with granulated sugar. This adds sweetness and helps to create a luscious filling that caramelizes beautifully during baking.
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Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor of the cherries, enhancing their natural essence and bringing the whole pie together in perfect harmony.
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Cornstarch: Cornstarch thickens the filling, ensuring it’s not runny. It’s essential for achieving that perfect slice that holds its shape.
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Butter: Always opt for unsalted butter in the crust. It lends a rich, creamy texture while allowing you to control the saltiness of your pie.
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Flour: All-purpose flour provides the structure for the crust. You can replace it with a gluten-free blend if needed, but watch for adjustments in texture.
Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting a cherry pie that beckons you for just one more slice.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pie Recipe
Every bite of this irresistible cherry pie transports you to a summer picnic, where the laughter of friends mingles with the sun-kissed warmth. Imagine the vibrant colors of fresh cherries, bursting with tartness, enveloped in a perfectly golden crust. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience that will have you reminiscing about childhood memories and simpler times.
Simple, Fresh Ingredients
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Cherries: Using fresh, ripe cherries is key. Their natural sweetness paired with a hint of tartness makes every slice a delight. If seasonal cherries aren’t available, frozen ones will also work, just make sure to thaw and drain them properly to avoid excess moisture.
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Crust: The foundation of any great cherry pie is its crust. I recommend a buttery, flaky pie crust made from scratch—it’s easier than you might think! A pre-made option can also be a lifesaver when you’re short on time.
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Sugar & Cornstarch: A mix of granulated sugar and cornstarch creates the ideal balance of sweetness while thickening the cherry filling perfectly. This combination results in a luscious, not runny, pie.
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Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens up the flavor, adding a subtle zing that enhances the cherries. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference.
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Spices: A hint of vanilla and a dash of almond extract elevate the overall taste, bringing warmth and complexity to the filling.
This irresistible cherry pie combines these elements seamlessly, making it a dish you’ll want to share. Trust me—once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is destined for your regular rotation.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Cherry Pie
Creating the irresistible cherry pie is not just about following a recipe; it’s an experience filled with passion, attention to detail, and a sprinkle of love. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your pie turns out perfectly each time.
Choosing the Right Cherries
Fresh, ripe cherries are the star ingredient in this recipe. Look for cherries that are deep in color and firm to the touch. If fresh isn’t available, frozen cherries are a great alternative—just make sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture in your pie.
Perfecting the Pie Crust
A flaky crust is key to an irresistible cherry pie. For the best results, keep your butter chilled and handle the dough as little as possible. Rolling it out on a lightly floured surface can help prevent sticking while maintaining that tender texture.
Balancing Sweetness and Tartness
Cherry varieties vary in sweetness; adjust the sugar accordingly. Taste the filling before baking—if it needs more sweetness, don’t hesitate to add a bit more sugar or a splash of lemon juice for balance.
Baking Tips
To achieve that golden-brown crust, preheat your oven to the right temperature and consider using a pie crust shield if the edges start to brown too quickly. This helps ensure your irresistible cherry pie bakes evenly without burning.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to making a cherry pie that is truly unforgettable!
Serving Suggestions for Cherry Pie
Indulging in a slice of irresistible cherry pie is a delightful experience. To elevate your cherry pie, consider these serving suggestions that add flair and flavor to your dessert table.
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Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream complements the rich cherry filling perfectly. You can use store-bought or homemade for that fresh touch. A dollop on top enhances the pie’s sweetness and adds a gorgeous presentation.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a classic combination, serve your cherry pie with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The cold, velvety texture contrasts beautifully with the warm pie, creating a dessert that feels indulgent and satisfying.
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Almond Extract Drizzle: Infusing a bit of almond extract into a glaze can add a sophisticated touch. Just mix powdered sugar with a bit of water and a hint of almond extract for a drizzle that takes your cherry pie to the next level.
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Lemon Zest: Grating fresh lemon zest over your pie just before serving can brighten the flavors. The acidity balances the sweetness, giving every bite a refreshing lift.
These simple additions will make your cherry pie not only delicious but also a showstopper at any gathering!
Time Breakdown for Making Cherry Pie
Creating an irresistible cherry pie takes a bit of your time, but the rewards are truly worth it. Here’s how to break down those moments in the kitchen:
Preparation Time
Getting everything ready for your pie is an enjoyable part of the process. Expect to spend about 20-30 minutes gathering ingredients, pitting cherries, and rolling out that flaky crust.
Baking Time
Once your pie is assembled, it’s time to watch it transform in the oven. Bake your irresistible cherry pie for about 45-50 minutes, until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
Total Time
In total, you’ll invest about 1 hour and 15-20 minutes in creating this delightful dessert. Trust me, that blend of cherries, sugar, and buttery crust will make every minute worthwhile!
Nutritional Facts for Cherry Pie
When indulging in an irresistible cherry pie, it’s essential to be aware of its nutritional content. Not only is it a delight to your taste buds, but understanding its components can help you enjoy it mindfully.
Calories
A typical slice of cherry pie contains around 320 calories. This makes it a delicious yet decadent treat perfect for special occasions.
Protein
In terms of protein, one slice packs approximately 2 grams. While not a significant source, it does contribute to satiety, making that cherry goodness even more enjoyable.
Sodium
For sodium, cherry pie usually has about 200 milligrams per slice. This amount is moderate, so it can fit into most diets without causing concern.
Savor each bite of your homemade cherry pie while being mindful of its nutritional footprint!
FAQ About Cherry Pie
Delving into the world of irresistible cherry pie often leads to questions about how to make the most of this delightful dessert. Here are some common inquiries that can enhance your cherry pie experience!
Can I use different types of cherries?
Absolutely! While sweet cherries, like Bing or Rainier, bring a juicy sweetness to your irresistible cherry pie, sour cherries, such as Montmorency, offer a tangy kick that can balance the flavors beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, mixing both types can result in a pie that boasts a complex flavor profile. Just keep in mind that sweeter cherries may require slightly less sugar in your filling.
How do I store leftover pie?
To keep your irresistible cherry pie fresh, cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Leftover pie can sit at room temperature for up to two days, making it easy to enjoy a slice anytime! If you prefer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just be sure to reheat a slice in the oven or microwave for that freshly-baked taste.
Can I freeze cherry pie?
Yes, you can! Freezing your irresistible cherry pie is a great way to extend its life. For best results, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze baked or unbaked pie. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake or reheat as needed. This makes it a perfect make-ahead dessert for special occasions!
Conclusion on Irresistible Cherry Pie Recipe
In wrapping up our journey through this irresistible cherry pie recipe, it’s clear that this dessert isn’t just a treat; it’s an experience. Each bite offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness that dances on your palate, thanks to the combination of fresh cherries and a perfectly flaky crust. Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy it chilled, this pie is bound to become a staple in your dessert rotation. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your inner baker, and invite friends over to share in the joy of this timeless classic. Happy baking!
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Cherry Pie
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A delicious cherry pie made with fresh or frozen cherries, perfect for dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted (or 3 cups frozen)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Wash and pit cherries. If using frozen, thaw them completely.
- In a bowl, combine cherries with sugar, flour, lemon juice, and cinnamon.
- Roll out one pie crust and place it into the pie pan.
- Pour the cherry mixture into the crust evenly.
- Roll out the second crust and cover the filling; seal edges by pinching.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and juices bubble through vents.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a sweeter pie, adjust sugar according to taste.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: dessert
- Method: bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
