Deliciously Simple Cherry Pie Recipe for Any Occasion

Oh, cherry pie… it’s like a warm hug from your favorite grandma, isn’t it? The sight of those shiny, plump cherries nestled in a golden, flaky crust just brings back so many memories. I mean, who doesn’t love the cozy feeling that comes with a slice of this classic dessert? The sweet-tart filling bubbling away, the irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen… it’s pure magic! Luckily for us, making this delicious cherry pie is way simpler than it seems. Seriously, it’s like, a walk in the park!

Why You’ll Crave It

• Perfect for summer gatherings or rainy days… basically any day, really
• Balancing sweet and tart just right… you’ll want seconds (or thirds!)
• Easy enough that even the kids can help—fun family bonding time!
• Leftovers? They make breakfast acceptable, trust me
• Pairs so well with ice cream; like, they were made for each other

The first time I made this pie, my friends practically begged for the recipe… they said it reminded them of home!

What You’ll Need

• Fresh or frozen cherries: 4 cups, pitted if fresh (or thawed and drained if frozen, please!)
• Granulated sugar: 1 cup, just sweet enough without overpowering
• Cornstarch: 1/4 cup, to thicken that lovely filling
• Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon for that zesty kick
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, because everything needs a bit of vanilla
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon to balance the flavors
• Prepared pie crust: 1, either homemade or store-bought, no judgment here!
• Egg: 1 for egg wash, giving that gorgeous shine
• Sugar: a sprinkle for the top, you’ll want that extra sweetness

Easy How-To

Let’s Get Those Cherries Ready

Alright, so first things first… you’ll need to pit those cherries. If you’re using fresh, it can take a bit of time, but it’s totally worth it. About 4 cups of pitted cherries will do. Frozen cherries? Just thaw them out and drain off any excess liquid, okay? Once that’s done, it’s filling time!

Good to Know

• Taste the filling! Depending on how tart your cherries are, you might want to tweak the sugar a bit.
• Store-bought crusts are great if you’re short on time, but homemade has that special touch!
• If you do have leftovers, just cover the pie and stick it in the fridge… it’s even better the next day!

Serving Ideas

• Serve it warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top. Pure happiness!

Top Tricks

• When making the crust, keep everything cold! Chilled ingredients are key for that flaky texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Absolutely, they work like a charm! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before tossing them into the mix to keep things from getting too soggy.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

Look for that golden-brown crust and bubbling filling—it’s like a cheat sheet! If it’s looking nice and toasted, you’re good to go.

Can I use a different type of fruit?

Yep, you can totally mix it up! Try blueberries, peaches, or a fruity combo… get creative!

What’s the best way to store leftover cherry pie?

Just cover it up and pop it in the fridge. It’s good up to three days—if it lasts that long!

Can I make the pie crust ahead of time?

For sure! You can whip up the crust, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate it for a few days or freeze it for longer. Just let it thaw in the fridge before you roll it out.

Conclusion

Mmm, this easy cherry pie recipe really is a classic! The way it combines that tart cherry goodness with a sweet, flaky crust is simply irresistible. I mean, who wouldn’t want a slice, right? It’s perfect for any occasion—family gatherings, summer picnics, or just because. Plus, served warm with ice cream? Well, let’s just say it’s comfort food at its finest!

More Recipes Suggestions and Combinations

Peach Pie

Swap those cherries for luscious peaches, and you’ve got yourself a sweet summer dream!

Mixed Berry Pie

Why not toss in some blueberries and raspberries for a vibrant splash of color and flavor?

Almond Cherry Pie

Add a hint of almond extract for a nutty, delicious twist that harmonizes incredibly well.

Chocolate Cherry Pie

Layers of chocolate chips mixed in… oh, it’s heavenly, I’m telling you!

Crumble Topping Cherry Pie

Top it off with a buttery crumble instead of a full crust. It adds a whole new level of texture and crunch!

Cherry Galette

For a fun, rustic version, fold the pie crust over the cherries— it’ll look beautiful and is just as tasty!