Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the sheer joy of making a cherry pie! There’s just something magical about the smell of fresh cherries mingling with a buttery, flaky crust that makes my heart sing. This classic cherry pie recipe is one of my absolute favorites, especially when I can use fresh cherries right from the market. Trust me, the taste of those juicy, sweet cherries really elevates the whole experience! I remember the first time I made this pie—it was a sunny afternoon, and I was determined to impress my friends at a summer gathering. Little did I know, the pie would steal the show! The vibrant red filling bubbling away in the oven is a sight to behold, and the first bite is pure bliss. You’re going to want this cherry pie in your life, I promise!

Ingredients for Cherry Pie

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 pie crust, unbaked

How to Prepare Cherry Pie

Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is super important because it ensures your pie crust gets that beautiful golden color and the filling bubbles up just right. So, don’t skip this part! It’s like giving your pie a warm hug before it goes in for its oven adventure.

Mix the Cherry Filling

Now, let’s get to the fun part—making that luscious cherry filling! In a mixing bowl, combine your pitted fresh cherries with the sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed and the cherries are coated in that sweet, tangy goodness. The sugar will start to draw out the juices from the cherries, which is just what you want for a deliciously flavorful filling. Trust me, the smell alone will make you want to dive right in!

Assemble the Pie

Next up, it’s time to assemble your pie! Pour that gorgeous cherry filling right into your unbaked pie crust, making sure to spread it out evenly. If you’re feeling fancy, you can cover it with a top crust or create a lovely lattice design. Don’t worry if it looks a bit rustic—that’s part of the charm! Just remember to seal the edges well so the filling doesn’t escape during baking. I like to crimp the edges with my fingers for that homemade touch!

Bake the Pie

Pop your assembled pie into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the crust is all golden brown and the filling is bubbling away like it’s having a party! If you notice the edges browning too quickly, you can cover them with a strip of aluminum foil to keep them from burning. Just keep an eye on it, and you’ll be golden!

Cooling and Serving

Once your pie is out of the oven, let it cool for at least 2 hours before serving. This is crucial, my friend! It gives the filling time to set up nicely so you won’t end up with a soupy mess when you slice into it. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and if you really want to take it over the top, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. Trust me, it’s a game changer!

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pie Recipe

• It’s a classic dessert that never goes out of style—everyone loves a homemade cherry pie!
• Using fresh cherries gives it a vibrant flavor that’s simply unbeatable.
• The recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• It’s incredibly versatile—enjoy it warm, cold, or with your favorite ice cream or whipped cream!
• Each slice is bursting with juicy goodness, and that flaky crust is to die for!
• It’s an impressive dessert that’s sure to wow your family and friends at any gathering.
• Leftovers (if there are any!) taste just as good the next day—if you can resist diving in right away!

Tips for Success with Cherry Pie

Alright, let’s get down to some of my best tips for making sure your cherry pie turns out absolutely perfect! These little nuggets of wisdom will help you achieve that flaky crust and delicious filling every single time.

• Use the Best Cherries: Always opt for the freshest cherries you can find! Look for ones that are plump, shiny, and firm. If you can’t get fresh ones, frozen cherries work too—just make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid a watery filling.
• Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: This ingredient is crucial for thickening the filling and keeping it from turning into a soupy mess. Make sure to mix it well with the cherries to get that perfect consistency.
• Chill Your Crust: If you’re making your own pie crust, chilling it for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out makes a world of difference. It helps the fat firm up, leading to a flakier crust when baked.
• Watch Your Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your pie as it bakes. If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil to protect them.
• Let It Cool: Patience is key! Allowing your pie to cool for a couple of hours helps the filling set perfectly. I know it’s tempting to dive right in, but trust me, it’ll be worth it!
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to your cherry filling for an extra layer of flavor. It’s a delightful twist!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating the cherry pie of your dreams. Happy baking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made this gorgeous cherry pie, and now you have some leftovers (if you can resist, that is!). Here’s how to store it properly so you can enjoy it later without losing any of that deliciousness.

First off, let the pie cool completely at room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent sogginess. Once it’s cool, you can cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. If you have an airtight container, that works great too!

Store the pie in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within a few days. It should stay good for about 3-4 days. Just remember to keep it covered so it doesn’t dry out! If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it. Just slice the pie first, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can grab a slice whenever the craving strikes!

When you’re ready to enjoy your pie again, reheating is super simple! If it’s frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For reheating, pop a slice in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds, or until it’s warmed through. If you prefer to use the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake your slice for around 10-15 minutes until it’s nice and warm. Just keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking!

And there you have it! Easy storage and reheating tips to ensure your cherry pie remains a delightful treat, even after the first serving. Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information

Just a quick note before we dive into the numbers: nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so take these figures as a general guideline rather than precise measurements. That said, here’s what you can typically expect from a slice of this delightful cherry pie:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Sugar: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 180mg

Enjoying a slice of cherry pie is a delightful treat, so savor every bite and feel good about it! Just remember, like all desserts, moderation is key. Happy baking and eating!

FAQ About Cherry Pie

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture in your pie filling. They’ll still taste delicious!

What can I do if my filling is too runny?
If you find that your filling is too runny, don’t panic! You can add a bit more cornstarch to help thicken it up. Mix it with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the filling before pouring it into the crust.

Can I make the pie crust ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare your pie crust in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before rolling it out!

How do I know when my pie is done baking?
You’ll know your cherry pie is ready when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If you see those delicious cherry juices bubbling around the edges, that’s a great sign! Just keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.

What’s the best way to serve cherry pie?
Cherry pie is delightful on its own, but you can take it to the next level by serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of whipped cream. It’s a classic combo that never disappoints!