Fresh Cherry Pie

Fresh Cherry Pie is a delightful dessert that truly captures the essence of summer. This pie is perfect for gatherings, whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a family dinner, or a picnic in the park. With its deliciously sweet and tart cherry filling nestled in a flaky, homemade crust, it stands out as a favorite among fruit desserts. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it not just a treat for the taste buds but also an eye-catching centerpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Summer Treat: Captures the essence of summer with fresh cherries, making it ideal for warm-weather gatherings.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delicious pie without hassle.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with ice cream or chilled with whipped cream—perfect for any preference!
• Showstopper Presentation: The double-crusted design and beautiful cherry filling make it visually stunning for serving guests.
• Customizable Flavor: You can easily tweak the recipe by adding almond extract or spices to enhance the flavor profile.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into your Fresh Cherry Pie recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pie plate
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Rolling pin
• Knife
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie plate: A good pie plate helps achieve an even bake and provides support for your crust.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without spilling.
• Rolling pin: Ensures your dough is rolled out evenly, allowing for a perfect crust every time.

Ingredients

For the Cherry Filling

• 6 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch

For the Pie Crust

• 2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold & cubed
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)

How to Make Fresh Cherry Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the fresh cherries, lemon juice, vanilla extract, sugar, and cornstarch. Stir well and simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) so it’s hot when you’re ready to bake your pie.

Step 3: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and granulated sugar. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add in the cold water until combined. Divide the dough into two balls, wrap them in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, use a rolling pin to roll out one ball of dough into a disc larger than your pie plate. Repeat with the second ball of dough after chilling.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Transfer one rolled-out disc to your greased pie plate. Pour in the cooled cherry mixture evenly. Cover with the second disc of dough, sealing edges by crimping them together. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Step 6: Bake Your Pie

Brush the top crust with an egg wash (the beaten egg) for a golden finish. Place on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for about 60 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy this delightful Fresh Cherry Pie that perfectly embodies summer flavors!

How to Serve Fresh Cherry Pie

Fresh Cherry Pie is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply indulging at home, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the pie’s sweet-tart flavor perfectly.
• Chocolate Ice Cream: Adds a rich and decadent twist to each slice of cherry pie.

With Whipped Cream

• Freshly Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it balances the richness of the pie beautifully.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding a hint of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.

As a Breakfast Treat

• Cherry Pie with Yogurt: Serve a slice with Greek yogurt for a delicious breakfast option.
• Cherry Pie Pancakes: Use the filling as a topping for pancakes for a sweet start to your day.

With Coffee or Tea

• Coffee Pairing: A slice of fresh cherry pie goes wonderfully with hot coffee, enhancing its flavors.
• Herbal Tea: A calming herbal tea provides a great contrast to the sweetness of the pie.

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How to Perfect Fresh Cherry Pie

Making the perfect Fresh Cherry Pie requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Here are some techniques to elevate your pie baking skills.

• Use Ripe Cherries: Choosing ripe cherries will ensure your filling is bursting with flavor and sweetness.
• Chill Your Dough: Keep your dough cold before rolling it out. This helps achieve that flaky texture everyone loves.
• Thicken the Filling Properly: Make sure to simmer the filling until it’s thickened; this prevents a soggy bottom crust.
• Vent Your Crust: Cutting slits in the top crust allows steam to escape, helping prevent overflow while baking.
• Egg Wash for Shine: Brushing an egg wash on the crust before baking gives it a beautiful golden finish.
• Cool Before Slicing: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps set the filling for cleaner slices.

Best Side Dishes for Fresh Cherry Pie

Pairing side dishes with Fresh Cherry Pie can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement this fruity treat well.

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie and goat cheese pairs nicely with sweet pies.
2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings freshness and balances out the richness of the pie.
3. Salad Greens: A simple green salad with vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast.
4. Grilled Peaches: The smoky sweetness from grilled peaches makes an excellent accompaniment.
5. Nut Mix: A bowl of lightly salted nuts offers a crunchy texture against the soft pie filling.
6. Chocolate Fondue: For an indulgent touch, serve chocolate fondue alongside slices of cherry pie for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Fresh Cherry Pie can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using underripe cherries: Always opt for ripe cherries for maximum flavor. Underripe fruit can lead to a bland filling.
• Skipping the chilling step: Don’t skip chilling the pie dough! Chilling helps create a flaky crust and prevents shrinking during baking.
• Not venting the top crust: Remember to cut slits in the top crust. This allows steam to escape and prevents a soggy pie.
• Incorrect baking temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated properly. Baking at the right temperature is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crust.
• Overfilling the pie: Avoid overfilling with cherries. Leave some space to allow for bubbling and expansion during baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking slices.

Freezing Fresh Cherry Pie

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze before baking; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Reheating Fresh Cherry Pie

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Reheat individual slices on medium power for about 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Fresh Cherry Pie.

How do I make Fresh Cherry Pie filling?

To make Fresh Cherry Pie filling, combine pitted cherries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a saucepan. Simmer until thickened.

Can I use frozen cherries for Fresh Cherry Pie?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just ensure they are thawed and drained of excess liquid before using them in your pie recipe.

What are some variations of Fresh Cherry Pie?

You can customize your Fresh Cherry Pie by adding almond extract or mixing in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for added flavor.

How can I tell when my Fresh Cherry Pie is done baking?

Your pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling through the vents on top.

Final Thoughts

Fresh Cherry Pie is not just a treat; it’s a celebration of summer’s flavors. Its versatility allows you to serve it warm or chilled, making it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with different extracts or fruit combinations for even more deliciousness!