What To Know
- Add the chilled vegan butter cubes to the flour mixture and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough crust.
- For a more rustic and decadent pie, sprinkle a mixture of oats, flour, sugar, and vegan butter over the top crust before baking.
The sweet, juicy burst of a cherry pie is a taste of summer that’s hard to resist. But what if you could enjoy that same deliciousness without compromising your vegan lifestyle? This blog post will guide you through how to make vegan cherry pie that’s not only cruelty-free but also incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
Gathering Your Ingredients: A Vegan Cherry Pie Pantry
Before we dive into the baking process, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- For the Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegan butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/2 cup ice water
- For the Filling:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- Pinch of salt
Crafting a Flaky Vegan Crust
A good pie crust is the foundation of a delicious cherry pie. Here’s how to create a flaky, buttery vegan crust:
1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Cut in the Butter: Add the chilled vegan butter cubes to the flour mixture and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Water Gradually: Sprinkle the ice water over the flour mixture, one tablespoon at a time, stirring until the dough just comes together. Don’t overmix!
4. Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a tender crust.
Preparing the Sweet and Tangy Cherry Filling
While the crust chills, let’s prepare the cherry filling. This is where the real magic happens:
1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, almond extract, and salt. Stir gently to coat the cherries.
2. Let the Flavors Mingle: Let the mixture sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. This will create a richer, more complex filling.
Assembling Your Vegan Cherry Pie
Now that our crust and filling are ready, let’s assemble our masterpiece:
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll Out the Dough: Divide the chilled dough in half. Roll out one half on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate.
3. Add the Filling: Pour the cherry filling into the pie crust.
4. Top with the Crust: Roll out the remaining dough into a 12-inch circle. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Place the top crust over the filling and crimp the edges to seal.
5. Bake to Perfection: Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let the pie cool completely before slicing and serving.
Tips for a Perfect Vegan Cherry Pie
Here are a few tips to ensure your vegan cherry pie is a success:
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough crust.
- Use Cold Ingredients: Keep the butter and water chilled to prevent the gluten from developing too much.
- Don’t Overfill the Pie Crust: Leave a little space at the top of the crust to allow for expansion during baking.
- Let the Pie Cool Completely: This will allow the filling to set and prevent it from being runny when sliced.
Beyond the Basics: Variations on the Classic
The beauty of a cherry pie is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to add your own personal touch:
- Add a Crumble Topping: For a more rustic and decadent pie, sprinkle a mixture of oats, flour, sugar, and vegan butter over the top crust before baking.
- Use Different Cherries: Experiment with different varieties of cherries, such as Bing, Rainier, or Montmorency.
- Add Spices: Enhance the flavor of the filling with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice.
- Use a Lattice Top: For a more elegant touch, create a lattice top by cutting strips of dough and weaving them over the filling.
A Sweet Ending: The Rewards of Vegan Baking
Making a vegan cherry pie is a labor of love that pays off in every delicious bite. It’s a testament to the fact that you can enjoy classic treats without compromising your values. The sweet, tart flavors of the cherries, the flaky crust, and the warm, comforting aroma will make you want to savor every moment.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! Frozen cherries work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure they are thawed and drained before using.
Q: What kind of vegan butter should I use?
A: Any high-quality vegan butter will work well. Look for brands that are specifically designed for baking.
Q: Can I make the pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the crust and filling ahead of time. Store the chilled crust in the refrigerator and the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the pie when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Q: How long can I store the leftover pie?
A: Leftover vegan cherry pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Enjoy the journey of creating your own delicious vegan cherry pie! Let the sweet aroma and the satisfaction of a homemade treat fill your kitchen and your heart.
