Nothing says comfort and nostalgia quite like a classic cherry pie. This timeless dessert, with its flaky crust and sweet-tart filling, is a beloved favorite that never goes out of style. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a taste of something traditional, making a homemade cherry pie is a rewarding endeavor that is sure to bring joy to those who indulge in its deliciousness. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to create your own mouthwatering cherry pie that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get baking a delightful “Classic Cherry Pie”!
Ingredients:
– 4 cups pitted fresh or frozen cherries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 package of two pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the oven rack in the lowest position.
2. In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the pitted cherries, sugar, cornstarch, almond extract, lemon juice, and salt until the cherries are well coated. Set the bowl aside and let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Roll out one of the pie crusts onto a lightly floured surface to fit into a 9-inch pie dish. Gently transfer the bottom crust to the pie dish, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides evenly.
4. Pour the cherry filling into the prepared pie crust and dot the top with the pieces of butter for added richness and flavor.
5. Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the cherry filling. Trim any excess dough, leaving about a 1-inch overhang around the edge of the pie dish. Pinch and crimp the edges of the crust together to seal the pie.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush the top of the pie crust with the egg wash, which will give the pie a beautiful golden color as it bakes.
7. Using a sharp knife, make a few small slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking and prevent the filling from bubbling over.
8. Place the prepared cherry pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
9. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving. This cooling time allows the filling to set and ensures cleaner slices.
10. Slice and serve your homemade classic cherry pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Enjoy every bite of this delightful dessert that embodies the essence of traditional baking with a modern touch. The luscious cherry filling nestled within a flaky crust is a true crowd-pleaser that will make you a baking hero in the eyes of your family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and get ready to create a masterpiece with this “Classic Cherry Pie” recipe.
