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A Taste of Summer: Classic American Cherry Pie

Growing up in my grandmother’s kitchen, summers had a delightful rhythm marked by the scent of ripe cherries wafting through the air and the gentle hum of her old-fashioned pie crust being rolled out. Each year, as the cherry trees burst into a bounty of plump, juicy goodness, she’d teach me the art of making the perfect cherry pie. It wasn’t just about baking; it was about connection—family stories woven through hand gestures, laughter, and a sprinkle of flour over our noses.

This classic American Cherry Pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of summer’s fleeting sweetness and a dish that beckons friends and family to gather around the table. With a flaky, buttery crust encasing a vibrant cherry filling, every slice encapsulates a nostalgic memory, inviting stories to flow just like the sweet juices of perfectly ripe cherries. As we indulge in this pie, we reminisce about hot summer days and the simple joys of being together.

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pie

  • Classic Recipe: A timeless dessert that never goes out of style.
  • Family Tradition: Brings your loved ones together with a taste of nostalgia.
  • Seasonal Delight: Enjoy the sweet flavor of summer cherries at their peak.
  • Versatile: Perfect for holidays, backyard barbecues, or quiet evenings.

Ingredients

  • For the Pie Crust:

    • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 tsp salt
    • 1 tbsp sugar
    • 1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
    • 6–8 tbsp ice water

  • For the Cherry Filling:

    • 4 cups pitted fresh cherries (or frozen, thawed)
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 2 tbsp cornstarch
    • 2 tbsp lemon juice
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • ½ tsp almond extract
    • 1 tbsp butter (to dot)

  • For Assembly:

    • 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
    • 1 tbsp sugar (for sprinkling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Pie Crust

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
  2. Cut in Butter: Add cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Add Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking it.
  4. Chill: Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.

Prepare the Cherry Filling

  1. Toss Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla, and almond extract. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow juices to form.

Assemble the Pie

  1. Preheat the Oven: To 425°F (220°C).
  2. Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough into a 12-inch circle. Fit it into a 9-inch pie pan.
  3. Add Filling: Spoon the cherry mixture into the crust, dot with butter.
  4. Top Crust: Roll out the second disc and place it over the filling. Trim edges and crimp to seal. Cut slits for steam to escape.
  5. Brush and Sprinkle: Brush the top crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar.

Bake

  1. Bake: Place in the preheated oven for about 45–50 minutes, until the filling is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.

Tips & Variations

  • Fruit Swap: Substitute cherries with blueberries, peaches, or mixed berries for a different twist.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the crust.
  • Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of the cherries and your preference.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze: Unbaked pies can be frozen. Wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding time as needed.

Nutritional Information

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 300
  • Servings: 8

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
    Yes, just ensure they are thawed and drained of excess liquid to avoid a soggy crust.

  2. What can I use if I don’t have almond extract?
    You can omit it and simply double the vanilla extract for a richer flavor.

  3. How can I prevent my pie crust from becoming soggy?
    Pre-baking (blind baking) the bottom crust for about 10 minutes can help.

  4. Is it necessary to use butter in the filling?
    While it adds richness, it’s optional. You can skip it if you’re looking to reduce fat.

Serving Suggestions or Pairings

  • Pair this cherry pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
  • Enjoy with a glass of freshly brewed iced tea or a classic lemonade for a refreshing treat.

Final Thoughts

Cherry pie has a unique way of bringing people together, evoking nostalgic memories and the warmth of family gatherings. I hope you give this recipe a try and create delightful moments in your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your versions or leave a comment about your experience—I’d love to hear your stories! Happy baking!

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