Cherry pie is a timeless dessert featuring a flaky, buttery crust filled with sweet and tart cherries. Perfect for any occasion, this delightful pie brings warmth and comfort, making it a favorite throughout the year.

Serves: 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Difficulty: Medium

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water

For the filling:

• 4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces (for topping)

Cookware Needed:

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• 9-inch pie dish
• Saucepan
• Whisk

Directions:

Step 1: Make the Pie Crust.
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Add the chilled butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, almond extract, and salt. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture starts to bubble and thicken. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface to fit the pie dish. Place the rolled dough in the pie dish and fill it with the cherry mixture. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.

Step 4: Top the Pie.
Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Optionally, brush the top with an egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon of water) for a golden finish.

Step 5: Bake.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil.

Step 6: Cool and Serve.
Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Homemade cherry pie is a comforting dessert that combines the sweetness of cherries with a buttery crust. This recipe is perfect for any gathering, bringing a delightful taste that can be enjoyed year-round, no matter the season!