What To Know
- Having pre-made cherry pie filling on hand means you can whip up a delicious pie quickly and easily, without the hassle of pitting and preparing fresh cherries.
- For faster freezing and easier storage, freeze the filling in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- You can also thaw the cherry pie filling in the microwave on a low setting, but be careful not to overcook it.
The aroma of freshly baked cherry pie is a quintessential summer treat. But what happens when the cherry season ends? Can you capture that summery goodness and enjoy it later? The answer, thankfully, is yes! Can cherry pie filling be frozen? Absolutely!
Freezing cherry pie filling is a fantastic way to preserve the vibrant flavor and juicy texture of your favorite summer fruit. Not only does it allow you to enjoy cherry pie year-round, but it also saves you time and effort when you’re craving a sweet treat.
Why Freeze Cherry Pie Filling?
Freezing cherry pie filling offers several advantages:
- Preserves Freshness: Freezing locks in the flavor and texture of fresh cherries, so you can enjoy that summery taste even in the winter.
- Convenience: Having pre-made cherry pie filling on hand means you can whip up a delicious pie quickly and easily, without the hassle of pitting and preparing fresh cherries.
- Cost-Effective: Buying cherries in bulk during peak season and freezing them allows you to save money and enjoy them throughout the year.
- Avoid Waste: If you have an abundance of cherries, freezing them prevents them from going bad.
Choosing the Right Cherries
The quality of your cherry pie filling depends heavily on the quality of the cherries you use. Here’s what to look for:
- Freshness: Choose firm, ripe cherries with a deep red color. Avoid any that are bruised, soft, or have signs of mold.
- Variety: Sweet cherries like Bing, Rainier, and Lambert are ideal for pie filling, as they have a balanced sweetness and tartness.
- Organic: Opting for organic cherries ensures they are free from pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
Preparing Cherry Pie Filling for Freezing
Before freezing your cherry pie filling, it’s crucial to prepare it correctly to ensure optimal flavor and texture.
1. Wash and Pit: Thoroughly wash the cherries and remove the pits. You can use a cherry pitter for this, or manually remove the pits with a small knife.
2. Add Sugar and Thickener: Combine the pitted cherries with sugar and a thickener like cornstarch or tapioca flour. The amount of sugar and thickener will depend on your preference and the sweetness of the cherries.
3. Cook (Optional): For a more intense flavor and thicker consistency, you can cook the cherry mixture on the stovetop until it thickens. However, this step is not essential for freezing.
Freezing Cherry Pie Filling: The Right Way
1. Choose the Right Container: Use freezer-safe containers or bags. If using bags, press out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
2. Label and Date: Label the containers clearly with the type of filling and the date it was frozen.
3. Freeze Flat: For faster freezing and easier storage, freeze the filling in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen solid, transfer the individual portions to freezer bags or containers.
4. Storage: Store the frozen cherry pie filling in the freezer for up to 6 months for optimal quality.
Thawing and Using Frozen Cherry Pie Filling
1. Thaw in the Refrigerator: For the best results, thaw the frozen cherry pie filling in the refrigerator overnight.
2. Microwave (Optional): You can also thaw the cherry pie filling in the microwave on a low setting, but be careful not to overcook it.
3. Use as Directed: Once thawed, use the cherry pie filling in your favorite pie recipe. If you’re using it in a recipe that requires cooking, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Tips for Using Frozen Cherry Pie Filling
- Adjust the Recipe: Frozen cherry pie filling may be slightly thicker than fresh filling, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid in your recipe.
- Add Flavor: Enhance the flavor of your pie by adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the frozen cherry filling.
- Get Creative: Frozen cherry pie filling can be used in other desserts like cobblers, crumbles, and even ice cream.
The Sweetest Conclusion: Enjoying the Fruit of Your Labor
Freezing cherry pie filling is a simple and rewarding way to preserve the taste of summer. By following these steps, you can enjoy delicious cherry pies and other desserts throughout the year, savoring the sweetness of the season long after the cherries have gone.
Questions You May Have
1. Can I freeze cherry pie filling made with fresh cherries?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze cherry pie filling made with fresh cherries. Just follow the steps outlined above for preparing and freezing the filling.
2. How long can I store frozen cherry pie filling?
Frozen cherry pie filling can be stored for up to 6 months for optimal quality. However, it may still be safe to eat after that time, but the flavor and texture may deteriorate.
3. Can I freeze cherry pie filling that has already been cooked?
Yes, you can freeze pre-cooked cherry pie filling. Just let it cool completely before freezing.
4. Can I freeze cherry pie filling with other ingredients?
Yes, you can freeze cherry pie filling with other ingredients like lemon juice, almond extract, or spices. Just make sure to adjust the amount of sugar and thickener accordingly.
5. Can I freeze cherry pie filling in a pie crust?
It’s not recommended to freeze cherry pie filling in a pie crust. The crust may become soggy during freezing. It’s best to freeze the filling separately and then assemble the pie when you’re ready to bake it.
