Introduction
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the delightful symphony of sweet and tart in our Sour Cherry Pie recipe. This timeless dessert is a celebration of the vibrant flavors that cherries bring to the table. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a pie connoisseur, this recipe is your ticket to creating a luscious masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.
For Whom and Why?
This Sour Cherry Pie recipe is tailored for those who appreciate the harmonious balance of sweet and sour notes. It’s a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings, picnics, or simply as a decadent treat to brighten up your day. Even if you’re new to baking, fear not; this recipe is designed for all skill levels, promising a delicious outcome every time.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to embark on your Sour Cherry Pie adventure:
- 4 cups pitted sour cherries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 2 pre-made pie crusts (or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous)
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
Before you start crafting this cherry-filled delight, ensure you have the following kitchen essentials:
- Pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Paring knife
Directions
Step 1: Prepping the Cherries
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the pitted sour cherries, sugar, cornstarch, almond extract, vanilla extract, salt, and lemon juice. Gently toss the mixture until the cherries are evenly coated.
Step 2: Rolling Out the Crust
Roll out one of the pie crusts and carefully place it into the pie dish. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges with a paring knife.
Step 3: Filling the Pie
Pour the cherry mixture into the pie crust, spreading it evenly. Dot the top with small pieces of unsalted butter, ensuring a buttery infusion into every bite.
Step 4: Top It Off
Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the cherry filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal the pie. Make small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
Step 5: Baking Brilliance
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Keep an eye on it, and if the edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.
Step 6: Cooling and Serving
Allow your Sour Cherry Pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This ensures the filling sets, giving you perfect, neat slices. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of decadence.
Kitchen Tips and Shortcuts
- Frozen Cherries: In a pinch, you can use frozen sour cherries. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using.
- Store-Bought Crust: If time is of the essence, store-bought pie crusts work perfectly well. However, making your own adds a personal touch to the pie.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use sweet cherries instead? A: While you can, the magic of this pie lies in the bold contrast of sour cherries against the sweetened crust. Stick to sour cherries for the authentic experience.
Q2: Can I make this pie ahead of time? A: Absolutely! Prepare the pie, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking for a convenient make-ahead option.
Q3: How do I store leftovers? A: Cover any leftover slices with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for that freshly baked feel.
Pairings and Final Notes
For a perfect pairing, serve your Sour Cherry Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of your favorite ice cream. The contrast of the creamy, cool topping with the warm, fruity filling is sure to delight your taste buds.