Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting mouthwatering Cherry Pie Filling from Fresh Cherries

How to Make Cherry Pie Filling with Fresh Cherries

Cherry pie is a classic American dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. The sweet, juicy cherries combined with a flaky crust create a mouthwatering treat that is perfect for any occasion. If you have access to fresh cherries, making your own cherry pie filling is a rewarding and delicious endeavor. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to make cherry pie filling with fresh cherries, ensuring that your pie is bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:

– 4 cups of fresh cherries, pitted
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of cornstarch
– 1/4 cup of water
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt

Instructions

1. Pitting the Cherries: Start by pitting the cherries. You can use a cherry pitter or a small knife to remove the pits. Be sure to remove all the pits to prevent any bitterness in your pie filling.

2. Mixing the Ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, sugar, cornstarch, water, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt. Stir the mixture well to ensure that the sugar and cornstarch are evenly distributed.

3. Cooking the Filling: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking. Once the mixture starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. The filling should thicken and become glossy.

4. Cooling the Filling: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cherry pie filling cool to room temperature. This step is crucial, as the filling will continue to thicken as it cools.

5. Assembling the Pie: Once the filling is cooled, you can proceed to assemble your cherry pie. Roll out your pie crust, line a pie dish with the bottom crust, and fill it with the cooled cherry pie filling. Top with the second crust, crimp the edges, and vent the pie if necessary.

6. Baking the Pie: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

7. Cooling and Serving: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before serving. This will ensure that the filling sets properly and the flavors meld together. Slice and serve your homemade cherry pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Making cherry pie filling with fresh cherries is a delightful way to enjoy this timeless dessert. By following these simple steps, you can create a pie that is full of flavor and pride, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Happy baking!