Cherry pie, oh cherry pie! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, with its sweet, juicy cherries nestled in a flaky crust that practically sings with every bite. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen, whisking you back to those summer days spent picking cherries under a blazing sun. This isn’t just dessert; it’s nostalgia wrapped in buttery goodness, perfect for family gatherings or a solo indulgence.

Now, if you’re anything like me, cherry pie evokes memories of childhood summers spent at Grandma’s house. She’d whip up this delightful treat while we played outside until our fingers were stained from picking cherries off the trees. The anticipation would build as we waited for it to cool, and let me tell you, the first slice was always met with jubilant cheers. So grab your apron and let’s create some delicious memories with this cherry pie recipe that promises flavor explosions in every bite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cherry pie is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels
- Its delightful balance of tart and sweet flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds
- The vibrant red color and shiny glaze make it visually stunning on any dessert table
- Enjoy it as a classic dessert or pair it with ice cream for an unforgettable treat
Ingredients for Cherry Pie
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Fresh Cherries: About 4 cups of pitted fresh cherries are ideal for bringing that juicy sweetness to life.
-
Sugar: You’ll need around 1 cup of sugar to balance the tartness of the cherries perfectly.
-
Flour: Approximately 3 tablespoons help thicken the filling and give it that lovely consistency.
-
Lemon Juice: Just a tablespoon adds brightness and enhances the cherry flavor beautifully.
-
Pie Crust: Use a pre-made or homemade crust—either way, ensure it’s flaky for that perfect texture.
For the Topping:
-
Butter: A few pats of butter on top of the filling add richness and help create a golden crust.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cherry Pie
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your pie bakes evenly and gets that golden-brown crust we all crave.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine your pitted cherries, sugar, flour, and lemon juice. Mix gently until everything is well coated—this is where the magic starts!
Step 3: Roll Out the Crust
If you’re using homemade dough, roll out half of it into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. If you’re using store-bought dough—no judgment here—just unroll it into your pie dish!
Step 4: Fill It Up
Carefully pour your cherry mixture into the prepared pie crust. Don’t skimp on this part; it’s where all that juiciness lives! Dot the top with small pieces of butter for added richness.
Step 5: Top It Off
Roll out your second half of dough and place it over the filling. Crimp the edges together to seal in all those delicious juices. Cut a few slits in the top to let steam escape—this helps prevent an oven explosion (and trust me, nobody wants that).
Step 6: Bake Away
Pop your cherry pie into the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it; if the edges start browning too fast, cover them with foil.
Once done baking, let it cool for at least an hour before slicing—it’ll be hard but trust me; waiting makes all the difference! Serve each slice warm or cold with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch.
And there you have it! A glorious cherry pie ready to impress family and friends—or maybe just yourself because you absolutely deserve it!
You Must Know
- This delightful cherry pie recipe offers more than just sweet satisfaction; it creates memories that last
- You can customize the filling based on your favorite fruits
- The vibrant colors and aroma of cherries make it an irresistible centerpiece for any gathering
- Perfect for dessert but versatile enough for any occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the pie crust while you pit the cherries. Once the crust is chilled, fill it with cherries, sugar, and spices. Bake until golden brown while you enjoy the heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries if cherries aren’t your thing. Add a splash of almond extract for a nutty twist or sprinkle in some cinnamon for warmth. Make it uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover cherry pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor; frozen can work but may yield a watery filling
- Don’t skip letting the pie cool before slicing it; this helps set the filling perfectly
- Consider serving with vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast
It’s funny how every time I make cherry pie, my family suddenly appears from thin air as if summoned by a delicious smell. They don’t just want a slice; they want a whole piece of my heart—just as sweet!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Cherry Pie?
To make a classic cherry pie, you will need fresh or frozen cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. For the crust, gather all-purpose flour, salt, unsalted butter, and ice water. If you’re using canned cherries, be sure to adjust the sugar based on their sweetness. This combination creates a deliciously tart filling that complements the flaky crust perfectly.
How do I ensure my Cherry Pie crust is flaky?
The key to a flaky cherry pie crust lies in using cold ingredients and not overworking the dough. Start with chilled butter and ice water to maintain the right texture. When mixing the dough, handle it gently and avoid excessive kneading. Resting the dough in the fridge before rolling it out can also help achieve that perfect flakiness everyone loves.
Can I use different types of cherries for Cherry Pie?
Yes, you can use various types of cherries for your cherry pie! Sweet cherries like Bing or Rainier work well for a sweeter flavor. Tart cherries are ideal for those who prefer a tangy taste. Mixing different varieties can also enhance complexity and depth in flavor. Just remember to adjust sugar levels based on the type of cherries used.
How long does Cherry Pie last?
Cherry pie can last for about 3 to 4 days when stored properly at room temperature. To extend its freshness, refrigerate it; this can keep it good for up to a week. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. When frozen correctly, cherry pie can last for up to three months without losing its taste or texture.
Conclusion for Cherry Pie :
In summary, making a delightful cherry pie requires some key ingredients like fresh or frozen cherries along with a flaky crust. Remember to keep your ingredients cold for optimal texture and flavor. Whether you prefer sweet or tart cherries, feel free to experiment with different varieties to find your favorite balance. By following these tips and techniques, you can create a stunning cherry pie that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

Cherry Pie
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Cherry pie is a beloved dessert that perfectly combines sweet, juicy cherries with a flaky crust. This easy recipe captures the essence of summer nostalgia and is sure to impress at any gathering. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat, or enjoy it on its own as a delightful ending to any meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh pitted cherries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 pre-made or homemade pie crust
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the cherries, sugar, flour, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Roll out half of the pie crust and place it in your pie dish.
- Pour the cherry mixture into the crust and dot with butter.
- Roll out the second half of the crust, cover the filling, crimp edges to seal, and cut slits on top for steam to escape.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown. Allow cooling before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg