There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a freshly baked cherry pie wafting through the kitchen, signaling that summer’s sweetness has been captured in a delicious dessert. This Homemade Baked Cherry Pie is a timeless classic that showcases juicy, tart cherries nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. Perfect for family gatherings, celebrations, or simply a cozy night in, this pie is sure to impress. With its vibrant color and mouthwatering flavor, each slice brings a taste of nostalgia and warmth. Let’s roll up our sleeves and create this delightful treat that will make any weekend feel special!
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
For the Cherry Filling:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on cherry sweetness)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces (for topping)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust:
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar together.
- Add the chilled, diced butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Do not overmix.
- Divide the dough into two balls, flatten them into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Make the Cherry Filling:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt.
- Cook until the mixture starts to bubble and thicken, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface to fit your pie pan. Place the crust in the pie pan and trim any excess hanging over the edges.
- Pour the cherry filling into the crust and dot with small pieces of butter.
- Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. You can create a lattice pattern or simply cover the pie. Trim and crimp the edges to seal.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash. Brush the mixture over the crust for a golden finish.
- Bake the Pie:
- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- If the edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.
- Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This allows the filling to set.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.