The BEST Cherry Pie

Name: The BEST Cherry Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups sweet cherries (pitted and halved); ⅔ cup granulated sugar; ⅓ cup cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes); 1 egg (for egg wash)

Recipe By:

Juliette

Posted:

June 12, 2025

Updated:

June 12, 2025

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This cherry pie recipe is simply the BEST Cherry Pie you’ll ever taste! With a sweet and juicy cherry filling that can be made using fresh or frozen cherries, this pie is perfect for any occasion. The flaky and buttery crust adds a delightful texture, while an egg wash gives the top a beautiful golden shine. Whether it’s a summer gathering or a holiday feast, this cherry pie is sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor – The combination of sweet cherries and a buttery crust creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Versatile Ingredients – You can use either fresh or frozen cherries, making it perfect year-round.
Easy Preparation – With straightforward steps, even beginners can master this cherry pie recipe.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a picnic, birthday party, or holiday dinner, this pie fits right in.
Visually Stunning – The golden crust and vibrant cherry filling make it a showstopper on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking the BEST Cherry Pie, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Pie dish
Mixing bowls
Rolling pin
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

Pie dish – A deep pie dish helps hold all the delicious filling without overflowing.
Mixing bowls – Using separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients ensures even mixing.
Rolling pin – A good rolling pin makes it easy to roll out your dough to the perfect thickness.

Ingredients

For the Filling

6 cups sweet cherries (2 pounds, pitted and halved)
⅔ cup granulated sugar (see note)
⅓ cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for dotting on the filling)

For the Crust

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
7 tablespoons ice-cold water

For Egg Wash

1 egg
1 tablespoon milk

For Topping (Optional)

Coarse sugar or granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

How to Make The BEST Cherry Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by washing and pitting your cherries. In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, salt, and almond extract if using.
2. Gently toss until all cherries are coated. Set aside to let juices develop.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In another bowl:
1. Mix flour, sugar, and salt together.
2. Add cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice-cold water until the dough comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface:
1. Roll out one disc of dough into a circle large enough to fit your pie dish.
2. Carefully place it into the dish and trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Pour the cherry filling into the prepared crust.
Dot with pieces of unsalted butter.
Roll out the second disc of dough for the top crust or create lattice strips if desired.

Step 5: Bake Your Pie

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Brush the top crust with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
Bake for about 65 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

Enjoy every slice of this delicious cherry pie!

How to Serve The BEST Cherry Pie

Serving The BEST Cherry Pie is all about enhancing its delicious flavors. Whether for a special occasion or a casual family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your pie experience.

Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of classic vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the tart cherries and flaky crust.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

For a decadent touch, drizzle warm chocolate sauce over each slice for a sweet and rich flavor combination.

Serve with Whipped Cream

Light and airy whipped cream complements the pie’s sweetness and provides a delightful texture.

Add a Sprinkle of Nuts

Chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts can add crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs well with the cherries.

Top with Fresh Mint

A sprig of fresh mint on top can add color and an aromatic freshness that brightens up the dish.

Offer Coffee or Tea

A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea balances the sweetness of the pie, making it perfect for dessert after a meal.

How to Perfect The BEST Cherry Pie

Perfecting The BEST Cherry Pie involves attention to detail and some thoughtful techniques. Here are some tips to help you achieve pie perfection.

Use Fresh Cherries: Whenever possible, opt for fresh, sweet cherries as they provide the best flavor and texture for your filling.
Don’t Overmix Dough: When making your pie crust, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough pastry instead of flaky layers.
Chill Your Ingredients: Keep your butter and water ice-cold before mixing. This helps create that sought-after flaky crust.
Adjust Sugar Based on Tartness: If using sour cherries, be sure to adjust the sugar amount accordingly to balance out their tartness.
Pre-Bake the Crust: Consider pre-baking your crust for 10-15 minutes before adding the filling. This prevents a soggy bottom and ensures even cooking.
Let it Cool Before Serving: Allow your cherry pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps set the filling and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for The BEST Cherry Pie

Pairing side dishes with The BEST Cherry Pie can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider.

Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar can provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of the pie.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers refreshing flavors that complement the rich cherry filling without overwhelming it.
Savory Tartines: Simple open-faced sandwiches on toasted bread can balance out the sweetness; try goat cheese with figs for an elegant touch.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth to your meal while providing a hearty contrast against dessert.
Salad with Vinaigrette: A mixed greens salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette can cleanse the palate between bites of sweet pie.
Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits creates a delightful snack that pairs nicely alongside dessert.
Chocolate Mousse: For chocolate lovers, serving chocolate mousse adds another layer of indulgence that complements cherry flavors perfectly.
Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of lemon sorbet offers a refreshing palate cleanser that brightens up any meal following dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The BEST Cherry Pie, it’s easy to make simple mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

Overmixing the dough: This can lead to a tough crust. Mix just until combined for a flaky texture.
Not pitting the cherries properly: Leaving pits in the cherries can ruin the experience. Always ensure the cherries are pitted and halved before use.
Skipping the egg wash: This step gives your pie a beautiful shine and golden color. Don’t skip brushing an egg wash on top before baking.
Using too much sugar: While you want sweetness, too much sugar can make the filling runny. Stick to the recommended amount for best results.
Not letting it cool properly: Cutting into the pie too soon can cause the filling to run out. Allow it to cool for at least two hours before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap.
The pie will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The BEST Cherry Pie

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for best results.
The pie can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The BEST Cherry Pie

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-60 seconds until warm.
Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when The BEST Cherry Pie is done?

The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and juices are bubbling around the edges.

Can I use frozen cherries for The BEST Cherry Pie?

Yes! Frozen cherries work well but may require a bit more cornstarch since they release more liquid when thawed.

What can I substitute for almond extract in this cherry pie recipe?

If you don’t have almond extract, vanilla extract or simply leaving it out works fine.

How should I serve The BEST Cherry Pie?

Serve it warm or at room temperature, with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

This cherry pie recipe truly stands out as The BEST Cherry Pie you’ll ever make! It’s not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize it by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or experiment with different types of crusts. Give it a try, and enjoy a slice of homemade goodness!