What To Know
- This guide will walk you through the steps of how to make a cherry pie with fresh cherries, from selecting the perfect fruit to creating a flaky, golden crust.
- Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 375°F and bake for an additional 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
The sweet, juicy burst of fresh cherries is a taste of summer that’s hard to resist. And what better way to capture that flavor than in a classic cherry pie? This beloved dessert is a timeless treat that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply enjoying on a warm afternoon. This guide will walk you through the steps of how to make a cherry pie with fresh cherries, from selecting the perfect fruit to creating a flaky, golden crust.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you embark on your cherry pie adventure, gather the necessary ingredients. For the filling, you’ll need:
- Fresh Cherries: Choose ripe, plump cherries, preferably Bing, Rainier, or other varieties known for their sweetness.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is the classic choice, but you can use a combination of granulated and brown sugar for a more complex flavor.
- Cornstarch: This thickens the filling, preventing it from becoming too runny.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavor and helps prevent the cherries from browning.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness of the cherries.
For the crust, you can either make your own or use a store-bought pie crust. If you’re making your own, you’ll need:
- All-purpose Flour: The foundation of your crust.
- Shortening: For a flaky, tender texture.
- Cold Butter: Adding cold butter creates layers in the crust.
- Ice Water: Used to bind the dough together.
Preparing the Cherries
Fresh cherries are the heart of this pie, so it’s important to prepare them properly.
1. Wash and Pit: Rinse the cherries thoroughly under cold water. Remove the stems and pit each cherry using a cherry pitter or a small knife.
2. Slice or Leave Whole: If you prefer a smoother filling, slice the cherries in half. Otherwise, leave them whole for a more rustic texture.
3. Combine with Sugar and Cornstarch: In a large bowl, combine the cherries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt. Gently toss to coat the cherries evenly.
Creating a Flaky Crust
A perfect pie crust is essential for a truly delicious cherry pie.
1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
2. Cut in Shortening and Butter: Cut the shortening and cold butter into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or two knives. The goal is to create small, pea-sized pieces of fat.
3. Add Ice Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough just comes together. Don’t overmix.
4. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Assembling the Pie
Now it’s time to assemble your cherry pie masterpiece.
1. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate.
2. Add the Filling: Pour the prepared cherry filling into the pie crust.
3. Top with the Second Crust: Roll out the remaining dough into a 12-inch circle. Cut strips or decorative shapes from the dough to create a lattice top or a simple single crust.
4. Crimp and Bake: Crimp the edges of the top and bottom crusts together. Brush the top crust with milk or egg wash and sprinkle with sugar. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 375°F and bake for an additional 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Letting the Pie Rest
Once the pie is baked, resist the urge to dive in immediately. Let it cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the filling to set and the crust to become firm.
Serving Your Cherry Pie
Your homemade cherry pie is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a truly decadent treat.
A Sweet Ending: Cherry Pie FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries are a great alternative to fresh cherries. Simply thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before using in the recipe.
2. How long can I store leftover cherry pie?
Store leftover cherry pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
3. What are some other variations for cherry pie?
Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spiced flavor. For a fun twist, add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the crust.
4. Can I use a different type of fruit in this recipe?
Yes! This recipe can be adapted to use other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries. Just adjust the amount of sugar and cornstarch based on the sweetness and moisture content of the fruit.
5. What are some tips for making a flaky crust?
Keep the butter and shortening cold, use ice water, and don’t overmix the dough. These techniques help create a flaky, tender crust.
A Slice of Summer Memories
Making a cherry pie with fresh cherries is more than just baking a dessert; it’s creating a taste of summer that will bring back warm memories for years to come. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of creating this classic treat from scratch.
