Best Cherry Pie
Best Cherry Pie Recipe from USA - Delicious and Easy to Make
Introduction
The Best Cherry Pie recipe is a classic dessert that has been cherished by families for generations. This delightful pie combines the tartness of red cherries with the sweetness of sugar, all encased in a flaky, golden pastry. Whether it's for a holiday, a family gathering, or simply a treat to enjoy any day, this cherry pie promises to bring smiles and satisfaction to any table. Follow along as we explore the history, tips, and nutritional information of this beloved recipe, and learn how to make the perfect cherry pie that will have everyone asking for seconds.
History
The cherry pie, a staple in American cuisine, has roots that trace back to Europe. Cherries were brought to America by English settlers in the 1600s, and pies were a popular method of dessert preparation. However, it wasn't until the 19th century, with the advent of canned cherries, that cherry pie became more widespread and easier to make. This recipe, with its simple yet delicious approach to the classic dessert, pays homage to the traditional cherry pies that have been enjoyed for centuries, while also incorporating modern conveniences like canned cherries and optional flavor enhancers like almond extract and food coloring.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of sugar
- 0.33 cup of flour
- 2 cans of red tart cherries, drained, reserving juice
- 0.25 tsp of red food coloring (optional)
- 0.25 tsp of almond extract (optional)
- 1 tbsp of margarine or butter
- Pastry for double-crust 9-inch pie
How to prepare
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
- In a saucepan, combine the sugar and flour.
- Blend in 1 cup of reserved cherry juice. Bring to a boil, stirring often. Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, until thickened.
- Remove from heat and add food coloring (optional), almond extract (optional), and margarine. Cover and refrigerate.
- Roll out half of the pastry and line a 9” pie pan.
- Roll out the other half of the pastry into an 11” circle and cut it into eight 0.5” strips.
- Pour the cooled cherry filling into the pastry-lined pie pan. Lay the pastry strips horizontally and then vertically across the top of the pie. Crimp the edges with the forefinger of one hand pressed into the thumb of the other hand to seal the edges.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until the crust is brown and the filling is bubbling.
Variations
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend for the pastry.
- Swap out the cherries for another fruit like blueberries or peaches for a different twist.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for added warmth and spice.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To ensure your cherry pie turns out perfectly, consider these tips and tricks:
- Always use cold butter and ice water for the pastry to keep it flaky.
- If using fresh cherries, make sure to pit them and adjust the sugar according to their sweetness.
- To prevent the bottom crust from becoming soggy, you can pre-bake it for about 10 minutes before adding the filling.
- Brushing the top crust with an egg wash will give your pie a beautiful golden finish.
- Let the pie cool completely before slicing to allow the filling to set.
Serving Suggestions
This cherry pie is best served warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh cherries or mint leaves.
Cooking Techniques
The key techniques in this recipe include making a roux for the filling by cooking the flour and sugar, rolling out pastry for a double crust, and creating a lattice top for a classic pie appearance.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have canned cherries, fresh or frozen cherries can be used. Adjust the sugar as needed.
- In place of almond extract, vanilla extract can be used for a different flavor profile.
- For a lower-fat version, a butter substitute can be used in both the filling and the pastry.
Make Ahead Tips
The cherry filling can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. The pastry dough can also be prepared in advance and kept chilled until ready to use.
Presentation Ideas
Serve slices of cherry pie on individual plates with a mint leaf for garnish. For an elegant touch, drizzle a little cherry syrup around the plate.
Pairing Recommendations
This cherry pie pairs beautifully with a light-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir or a sweet dessert wine. For non-alcoholic options, consider a cold glass of milk or a cup of coffee.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover cherry pie can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
A typical serving of this cherry pie contains around 300 calories. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients used and the size of the slice.
Carbohydrates
A single serving of this cherry pie contains approximately 58 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the sugar and flour used in the recipe. Carbohydrates are essential for energy, but it's important to consume them in moderation, especially if you're monitoring your blood sugar levels.
Fats
This cherry pie recipe contains about 10 grams of fat per serving, with the primary sources being the butter in the pastry and the filling. While fats are an essential part of a balanced diet, contributing to satiety and the absorption of vitamins, opting for unsaturated fats where possible is a healthier choice.
Proteins
Each serving of cherry pie provides approximately 2 grams of protein, mainly from the flour in the pastry. While not a significant source of protein, it contributes to the overall nutritional profile of the dessert.
Vitamins and minerals
Cherries are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and antioxidants. These nutrients support immune function, heart health, and more. However, the nutritional content can vary depending on whether fresh or canned cherries are used.
Alergens
This recipe contains common allergens such as wheat (from the flour) and may contain nuts if almond extract is used. It's also important to check the labels of store-bought pastry and canned cherries for any additional allergens.
Summary
Overall, this cherry pie is a delicious treat that, when enjoyed in moderation, can fit into a balanced diet. It provides a good balance of carbohydrates and fats, along with some protein, vitamins, and minerals from the cherries.
Summary
The Best Cherry Pie is a timeless dessert that combines the tartness of cherries with the sweetness of sugar, all wrapped in a flaky pastry. This recipe not only offers a delicious treat but also provides an opportunity to learn about the history and nutritional aspects of cherry pie. With tips for making the perfect pie, along with variations and serving suggestions, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for any occasion.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for the Best Cherry Pie. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the ways of the kitchen from my mother. We were visiting my Aunt Clara, who was known for her delicious pies, and she graciously agreed to share her secret recipe with me.
As I watched Aunt Clara carefully measure out the ingredients and expertly mix them together, I couldn't help but marvel at her skill. She explained to me the importance of using fresh cherries, the right amount of sugar, and just the perfect touch of cinnamon to bring out the flavors. I hung on her every word, determined to learn how to make the Best Cherry Pie just like she did.
After the pie was in the oven and the sweet aroma began to fill the kitchen, Aunt Clara sat me down at the table and handed me a worn, stained piece of paper. On it was written the recipe for her famous pie, passed down through generations of our family. She told me to keep it safe, to cherish it, and to use it to create memories with my own loved ones in the years to come.
I treasured that piece of paper like a precious heirloom, and over the years, I practiced making the Best Cherry Pie again and again. I experimented with different types of cherries, adjusted the amount of sugar to suit my taste, and even added a splash of almond extract for extra flavor. Each time I made the pie, I felt a connection to my Aunt Clara and the generations of women before me who had lovingly baked it.
As I grew older, I continued to refine my skills in the kitchen, learning new recipes and techniques from friends, neighbors, and even strangers I met along the way. I discovered that cooking was not just about following a set of instructions, but about infusing each dish with love, care, and a little bit of magic. And so, the Best Cherry Pie became more than just a recipe to me – it became a symbol of tradition, of family, and of the joy that comes from sharing a meal with loved ones.
Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, surrounded by the familiar scents and sounds of baking, I can't help but smile as I think back on that day with Aunt Clara. The Best Cherry Pie has become a staple in our family, a dish that is requested at every holiday gathering, birthday celebration, and Sunday dinner. And each time I take a bite of that sweet, tart pie, I am reminded of the love and laughter that have filled my life, thanks to a simple recipe and a generous aunt who shared it with me all those years ago.
So here it is, my recipe for the Best Cherry Pie, passed down through generations and filled with memories of laughter, love, and delicious moments shared with family and friends. May it bring you as much joy and happiness as it has brought me, and may you always remember that the best recipes are the ones that come from the heart.