Cherry pie filling is like a warm hug on a plate, bursting with sweet and tangy goodness that dances on your taste buds. Imagine sinking your fork into a flaky crust, revealing a vibrant red treasure trove of cherries, their juices glistening as they ooze out. fruity no-bake dessert It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience that whisks you away to summer picnics and family gatherings, where laughter fills the air and the aroma of baked goods lingers like an old friend.
This cherry pie filling brings back fond memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where she would whip up batches every summer with cherries picked straight from the orchard. The anticipation was palpable as we waited for her to pull the pie from the oven, its golden crust crackling with delight. cinnamon rolls with cherry Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight treat, this recipe is your ticket to flavor town—a destination guaranteed to evoke smiles and happy sighs from everyone at the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cherry pie filling is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients.
- Its sweet-tart flavor profile makes it perfect for pies, desserts, or even breakfast treats.
- The rich red color adds visual appeal to any dish it graces.
- Versatile enough to use in various recipes, you can enjoy it all year round.
Ingredients for Cherry Pie Filling
For more inspiration, check out this pecan pie bars recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cherries: About 4 cups of pitted cherries will give you that luscious flavor. Opt for ripe ones for maximum sweetness.
- Sugar: A cup of granulated sugar balances out the tartness of the cherries perfectly.
- Cornstarch: You’ll need around 1/4 cup to thicken your filling and create that perfect gooey texture.
- Lemon Juice: A tablespoon adds brightness and enhances the cherry flavor beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a teaspoon elevates the overall taste with its warm undertones.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cherry Pie Filling
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Cherries
Start by washing and pitting about four cups of fresh cherries. If you don’t have a pitter (who does?), use a knife carefully—just be careful not to turn your kitchen into a cherry massacre.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss your pitted cherries with one cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup cornstarch, one tablespoon of lemon juice, and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well-coated—this mixture is going to be your cherry dream come true!
Step 3: Let It Rest
Allow your cherry mixture to sit for about ten minutes. This step helps draw out those delicious juices and gives you that extra sauciness.
Step 4: Cook It Up
Transfer your cherry mixture into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture begins bubbling—this usually takes about five minutes. Keep an eye on it; we want bubbling joy, not burnt cherries!
Step 5: Thicken It Up
Once bubbling, reduce heat slightly and continue stirring until thickened (about another five minutes). Once thickened to your desired consistency, remove from heat.
Step 6: Cool It Down
Let the filling cool completely before using it in your favorite dessert recipes or storing it in jars. This cooling period allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Transfer to plates or use it in any dessert creation you desire for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy this delightful cherry pie filling on pies, pancakes, or even straight from the jar—no judgment here!
And there you have it—the secret sauce (or should I say filling) that turns any ordinary dessert into something spectacular!
You Must Know
- This delightful cherry pie filling brings nostalgia to every bite, transforming any dessert into a masterpiece.
- Its vibrant color and rich flavor can brighten even the dullest of days.
- Perfect for pies, tarts, or just a cheeky spoonful straight from the jar!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by pitting and slicing fresh cherries while bringing your sugar and cornstarch mixture to a simmer. Once thickened, stir in those glorious cherries for that perfect cherry pie filling. Let it cool before using to maintain that luscious texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out some sugar for brown sugar for a deeper flavor or toss in a dash of almond extract for an unexpected twist. You can also mix in blueberries or raspberries for a colorful berry medley!
Storing & Reheating
Store your cherry pie filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency without losing its charm.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh cherries when possible; they make all the difference in taste and texture.
- For a thicker filling, adjust cornstarch based on your preference.
- Remember to let the filling cool before adding to desserts for better layering.
Sometimes I sneak a spoonful of this cherry pie filling late at night, reminiscing about my grandmother’s kitchen filled with sweet scents and laughter as we baked together. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples recipe recipe.
FAQs:
What is Cherry Pie Filling made of?
Cherry pie filling typically consists of fresh or canned cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and flavorings such as vanilla or almond extract. Some recipes also include lemon juice for added tartness. You can choose between sweet or sour cherries based on your preference. chocolate pound cake pairing The mixture is cooked until thickened and then used as a delicious filling for pies, tarts, or even as a topping for desserts like ice cream and pancakes.
How do I thicken Cherry Pie Filling?
To thicken cherry pie filling, you can use cornstarch or flour as a thickening agent. Cornstarch is often preferred because it creates a glossy finish. Combine equal parts of cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry, then add it to the cherry mixture while cooking. Allow the filling to simmer until it reaches the desired thickness. Remember to stir constantly to avoid clumps and ensure an even consistency throughout.
Can I use frozen cherries for Cherry Pie Filling?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries for cherry pie filling! When using frozen cherries, it’s best to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery filling. If using frozen cherries directly, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly to allow the filling to thicken properly. This option is great when fresh cherries are out of season and still yields delicious results.
How long does homemade Cherry Pie Filling last?
Homemade cherry pie filling can last in the refrigerator for about one week if stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing it; properly sealed, it can last up to six months in the freezer. To use frozen cherry pie filling, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before using it in your favorite recipes. This way, you’ll always have a delightful filling ready when you crave some cherry pie!
Conclusion for Cherry Pie Filling:
In summary, cherry pie filling is a versatile ingredient that adds sweetness and flavor to various desserts. Whether you opt for fresh or frozen cherries, this delightful mixture can be easily prepared with just a few simple ingredients. By following proper storage methods, you can enjoy homemade cherry pie filling well beyond its initial creation. Embrace your creativity by using this filling not only in pies but also as toppings for other sweet treats!
Print
Cherry Pie Filling
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 4 servings 1x
Description
Cherry pie filling is a deliciously sweet and tangy treat that encapsulates the essence of summer. With fresh cherries and minimal ingredients, this easy recipe transforms any dessert into a delightful experience. Whether it’s for pies, tarts, or as a topping for pancakes and ice cream, this cherry pie filling will evoke memories of warm family gatherings and laughter.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh pitted cherries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherries: Wash and pit the cherries.
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla until well-coated.
- Let It Rest: Allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes to release juices.
- Cook: Transfer to a saucepan over medium heat; stir until bubbling (about 5 minutes).
- Thicken: Reduce heat and stir until thickened (another 5 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Cool: Let the filling cool completely before using or storing.
Notes
For deeper flavor, substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar. Add almond extract for an extra twist or mix in other berries for a colorful medley. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup (60g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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