Prize-winning Cherry Pie

Prize-winning Cherry Pie Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 55 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Cherry pie is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. This prize-winning recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its delicious flavor and flaky crust.

History

Cherry pie has been a popular dessert in America since the early 19th century. It is often associated with summertime and picnics, and is a staple at many Fourth of July celebrations. This particular recipe has been passed down through generations and has won numerous awards at county fairs and baking competitions.

Ingredients

1 cup sugar
3 tbsp cornstarch
0.25 tsp salt
0.67 cup grenadine syrup
2 packages frozen cherries (16 oz (454 g)); thawed
0.5 tsp almond extract
2 tbsp butter or margarine
double crust pastry
2 tsp milk

Substitute

2 lb (907 g) fresh cherries; pitted
0.25 cup cornstarch

How to prepare

In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir the mixture to remove any lumps.
Stir in grenadine syrup into the sugar mixture.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth.
Add cherries and simmer for about 4 minutes, stirring gently once or twice, until the liquid is thickened and transparent.
Stir in almond extract and butter until the butter melts. Allow the mixture to cool.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out half of the pastry to a thickness of 0.13 inches.
Place the rolled pastry in a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate and trim off any excess pastry along the edges.
Pour the cooled cherry mixture into the pastry shell.
Roll out the remaining pastry to a thickness of 0.13 inches and transfer it to the top of the pie.
Trim off any excess pastry along the edges.
Fold the edges under and flute them.
Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Lightly brush the top of the pastry shell with milk.
Bake at 400°F (204°C) for 55 minutes or until the pie is golden brown.
Allow the pie to cool before serving.

Variations

Try adding a splash of bourbon to the cherry mixture for a boozy twist.
Experiment with different types of cherries, such as sour cherries, for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Thaw the frozen cherries completely before using them in the recipe to ensure that they cook evenly.

- Be sure to stir the cherry mixture constantly while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

- Brushing the top crust with milk before baking will give the pie a beautiful golden brown color.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cherry pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combination.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a successful cherry pie is to cook the filling until it is thick and bubbly. This will ensure that the pie sets properly and has a nice consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer to use fresh cherries instead of frozen, simply pit and halve the cherries before adding them to the recipe. You may need to adjust the amount of cornstarch to achieve the desired consistency.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cherry filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling the pie. This will save you time on the day you plan to bake the pie.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this cherry pie on a decorative pie plate for a beautiful presentation. You can also sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a finishing touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This cherry pie pairs well with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee. It is also delicious served alongside a dollop of whipped cream.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cherry pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for 30 seconds or until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this cherry pie contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this cherry pie contains approximately 50 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this cherry pie contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this cherry pie contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Cherries are a good source of vitamin C and potassium, which are important for overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat and may contain traces of nuts.

Summary

This cherry pie is a delicious dessert option that is relatively low in calories and fat. It is a great way to enjoy the sweet taste of cherries while still maintaining a balanced diet.

Summary

This prize-winning cherry pie is a delicious and classic dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its flaky crust and sweet cherry filling, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother, a treasure trove of recipes passed down through the generations. The page was yellowed with age, and the edges were frayed from years of use, but the words were still clear and legible.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could almost taste the sweet cherries and flaky crust. The recipe called for the usual suspects – flour, sugar, butter – but it also had a few unexpected additions, like a splash of almond extract and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It was clear to me that this was no ordinary cherry pie recipe. This was a prize-winning cherry pie recipe.

I decided then and there that I had to make this pie. I had always loved baking, and I had a feeling that this recipe would be a real showstopper. I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in the kitchen, my apron tied securely around my waist.

The first step was to make the crust. I followed the instructions carefully, cutting in the butter until the mixture resembled coarse crumbs. I added just enough cold water to bring the dough together, then rolled it out into a perfect circle. As I lined the pie dish with the dough, I could feel my excitement growing. This pie was going to be something special.

Next came the filling. I mixed together the cherries, sugar, and a touch of cornstarch, then poured it into the waiting crust. I added a splash of almond extract and a sprinkle of cinnamon, just as the recipe instructed. The scent that filled the kitchen was intoxicating – sweet and spicy and utterly irresistible.

As the pie baked in the oven, I watched it anxiously, peeking through the glass door to check on its progress. The crust turned a golden brown, and the filling bubbled and thickened. When I finally took it out and let it cool on the counter, I knew that I had created something truly special.

I couldn't wait to taste it. I cut myself a slice and took a bite, savoring the sweet-tart flavor of the cherries and the buttery richness of the crust. It was even better than I had imagined. This was no ordinary cherry pie – this was a prize-winning cherry pie.

I decided to enter the pie in the county fair that year. I carefully packaged it up and drove it to the fairgrounds, my heart pounding with anticipation. I entered it in the baking competition and waited nervously as the judges tasted all the entries.

When the results were announced, I couldn't believe my ears. My cherry pie had won first prize. I was over the moon with joy, my face flushed with excitement. I had always known that this pie was special, but now I had the blue ribbon to prove it.

From that day on, my prize-winning cherry pie became a staple at family gatherings and special occasions. Everyone who tasted it raved about its delicious flavor and flaky crust. I loved watching their faces light up with pleasure as they took their first bite. It was a feeling of pride and satisfaction unlike any other.

Over the years, I have made that cherry pie countless times, sharing the recipe with friends and family who have all fallen in love with it just as I did. It has become a beloved tradition in our family, a symbol of love and care baked into every delicious bite.

And as I write this now, sitting at my kitchen table with that same old cookbook open in front of me, I can't help but smile. That prize-winning cherry pie recipe may have come from a book, but the memories and joy it has brought to me and my loved ones are truly priceless. It is a recipe that will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the magic that can happen when you combine a love of cooking with a touch of inspiration.