What To Know
- This blog post will guide you through the process of making a delightful cherry pie using dried cherries, ensuring a sweet and satisfying treat any time of year.
- Dried cherries are a fantastic substitute for fresh cherries in baking, offering a concentrated burst of flavor and a chewy texture that adds a unique dimension to your pie.
- Instead of a lattice top, crumble a mixture of flour, oats, brown sugar, and butter over the filling for a crunchy and satisfying topping.
Are you craving a juicy, sweet cherry pie but fresh cherries are out of season? Don’t despair! You can still enjoy the deliciousness of cherry pie with the help of dried cherries. This blog post will guide you through the process of making a delightful cherry pie using dried cherries, ensuring a sweet and satisfying treat any time of year.
The Magic of Dried Cherries
Dried cherries are a fantastic substitute for fresh cherries in baking, offering a concentrated burst of flavor and a chewy texture that adds a unique dimension to your pie. They are also incredibly versatile, allowing you to create a variety of cherry pie variations, from classic to innovative.
Getting Started: Ingredients and Preparation
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather the necessary ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 cup dried cherries
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup shortening
- 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
- 4-6 tablespoons ice water
Preparation:
1. Rehydrate the dried cherries: In a saucepan, combine the dried cherries and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cherries are plump and soft.
2. Make the filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Add the rehydrated cherries and their liquid to the sugar mixture and stir well to combine.
3. Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Cut in the shortening and butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
4. Assemble the pie: Divide the dough in half. Roll out one half on a lightly floured surface to a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate and trim the edges. Fill the crust with the cherry filling.
5. Top the pie: Roll out the remaining dough and cut into strips. Arrange the strips in a lattice pattern over the filling. Trim the edges and crimp them together.
Baking Your Cherry Pie
1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Bake the pie: Bake the pie for 15 minutes at 425°F. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Cooling and Serving
Once the pie is baked, let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. You can enjoy it warm, at room temperature, or even chilled for a refreshing treat.
Variations on the Theme
While the classic cherry pie recipe is delightful, you can experiment with different flavors and textures to create your own unique variations:
- Spiced Cherry Pie: Add a pinch of cardamom, ginger, or allspice to the filling for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Almond Cherry Pie: Sprinkle a tablespoon of almond extract into the filling for a nutty and fragrant flavor.
- Chocolate Cherry Pie: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the filling for a rich and decadent experience.
- Cherry Crumble Pie: Instead of a lattice top, crumble a mixture of flour, oats, brown sugar, and butter over the filling for a crunchy and satisfying topping.
Beyond the Pie: Creative Uses for Dried Cherries
Dried cherries are incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide variety of recipes beyond pie. Here are some ideas:
- Breakfast: Add dried cherries to your oatmeal, yogurt, or granola for a burst of sweetness and flavor.
- Salads: Use dried cherries as a sweet and tangy topping for salads, especially those with greens, nuts, and cheese.
- Trail Mix: Mix dried cherries with nuts, seeds, and other dried fruits for a healthy and satisfying snack.
- Muffins and Cookies: Incorporate dried cherries into your favorite muffin or cookie recipes for a delightful and chewy addition.
Deliciously Done: Your Dried Cherry Pie Masterpiece
With a little patience and creativity, you can transform dried cherries into a delicious and satisfying cherry pie. This recipe allows you to enjoy the sweet and tart flavors of cherry pie any time of year, using readily available ingredients. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to bake a masterpiece that will impress your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I use other types of dried fruit in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute dried cranberries, blueberries, or even apricots for a unique flavor twist.
Q: How long can I store the dried cherry pie?
A: The pie can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Q: Can I freeze the pie dough or filling?
A: Yes, you can freeze the pie dough for up to 2 months or the filling for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
Q: Can I use a pre-made pie crust?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer to save time, you can use a pre-made pie crust from the grocery store.
Q: What can I serve with the cherry pie?
A: Serve your cherry pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dollop of mascarpone cheese for a decadent treat.
