How to Make Cherry Pie with Fresh Cherries
Cherry pie is a timeless classic that has delighted the taste buds of many for generations. There’s something special about the sweet, tangy flavor of fresh cherries, paired with a flaky, buttery crust. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, making cherry pie with fresh cherries can be a delightful experience. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of creating a mouthwatering cherry pie from scratch.
Choosing the Right Cherries
The first step in making cherry pie with fresh cherries is selecting the perfect fruit. Look for cherries that are plump, firm, and have a deep red color. Avoid cherries that are soft or have a green tint, as they may be overripe or underripe. If you’re lucky enough to find them, sour cherries are an excellent choice for pie, as they have a natural tartness that complements the sweetness of the filling.
Preparation
Before you start baking, gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. You’ll need fresh cherries, pie crust, sugar, flour, salt, butter, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Additionally, have a mixing bowl, a rolling pin, a pie dish, and a fork or a pastry cutter on hand.
Make the Crust
Begin by making the pie crust. Combine flour, salt, and butter in a mixing bowl. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two equal parts, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour.
Prepare the Cherry Filling
While the dough is chilling, prepare the cherry filling. Pit the cherries using a cherry pitter or a knife, and place them in a mixing bowl. Add sugar, flour, salt, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the cherries, and stir until well combined.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one of the chilled dough balls on a floured surface to create the bottom crust. Transfer it to a pie dish and trim the edges, leaving a 1-inch overhang. Fill the crust with the cherry filling, mounding it slightly in the center.
Top the Pie
Roll out the second dough ball to create the top crust. Cut out a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Place the top crust over the filling, pressing the edges together to seal. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges with a fork or your fingers.
Bake the Pie
Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C). Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Let It Cool
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving. This will allow the filling to set and the flavors to meld together.
Enjoy Your Cherry Pie
Once your cherry pie has cooled, slice it and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet cherries and a flaky crust. This homemade cherry pie is sure to impress family and friends, and it’s a delightful way to showcase the beauty of fresh cherries. Happy baking!
