Cherry pie holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of family gatherings and summer picnics. The first time I made this cherry pie with a lattice crust, it quickly became a favorite at family dinners. There’s something magical about the combination of tart cherries and buttery, flaky crust that simply brings people together. My family devoured it and asked for seconds, which is always the best compliment a home cook can receive. If you’re looking to create a dessert that not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning, this cherry pie with its intricate lattice crust is the perfect choice.
Ingredients
Creating the perfect cherry pie begins with selecting the right ingredients. Fresh, ripe cherries are the star of the show, providing a burst of flavor in every bite. If fresh cherries are out of season, frozen cherries are a great alternative, ensuring you can enjoy this dessert year-round. The crust, made from scratch, is a simple mixture of flour, butter, sugar, and a touch of salt. For a touch of sweetness, a little sugar is added to the filling, along with cornstarch to thicken the juices. A hint of almond extract complements the cherries perfectly, adding depth to the flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
- 4 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries
- ¾ cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Sugar for sprinkling on top
Instructions
Making a cherry pie with a lattice crust may seem daunting, but with a little patience and practice, you’ll find it’s not as difficult as it looks. Follow these steps to create a pie that’s not only delicious but also a work of art:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and bubbles. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Carefully transfer the dough to the pie pan, trimming the edges as needed. Roll out the second disc of dough and cut into strips for the lattice top.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Pour the cooled cherry filling into the prepared pie crust. Arrange the dough strips over the filling in a lattice pattern. Trim and seal the edges, then brush with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let the pie cool completely before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Understanding the nutritional content of your homemade cherry pie can help you enjoy it in moderation. This recipe serves approximately 8 people, with each serving containing around 350 calories. While dessert should always be enjoyed as a treat, knowing the calorie count can help you balance your meal planning and indulge responsibly.
Preparation Time
Time management is key when preparing a homemade cherry pie. From start to finish, this recipe takes about 2 hours, including chilling, prep, and baking time. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
How to Serve
Serving your cherry pie is as much a part of the experience as baking it. Consider these ideas for a delightful presentation:
- Warm it up: Serve your cherry pie slightly warm to enjoy the full flavor of the cherries and the buttery crust.
- Top it with ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the tartness of the cherries.
- Whipped cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream is a classic topping that pairs beautifully with cherry pie.
- Dust with powdered sugar: For a simple, elegant touch, dust the top of your pie with powdered sugar before serving.
- Pair with a beverage: Enjoy your pie with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a comforting treat.
Additional Tips
To ensure your cherry pie turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Chill the dough: Keeping the dough cold helps create a flaky crust, so don’t skip the chilling step.
- Prevent a soggy bottom: Preheating your baking sheet can help set the bottom crust quickly, preventing sogginess.
- Use a pie shield: If the edges of your crust are browning too quickly, cover them with a pie shield or aluminum foil.
- Let it cool: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to ensure the filling sets properly.
- Experiment with flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spiced variation.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions about making cherry pie with a lattice crust:
Q: Can I use canned cherries instead of fresh or frozen?
A: Yes, canned cherries can be used, but make sure to drain them well and adjust the sugar and cornstarch as needed since canned cherries often come in syrup.
Q: How do I prevent the filling from being too runny?
A: Use the correct amount of cornstarch to thicken the filling. If you find your filling is still too runny, let it cool completely before pouring it into the crust.
Q: Can I make the pie crust in advance?
A: Absolutely! The pie crust can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, or in the freezer for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw it properly before rolling it out.
Q: What if I don’t have a pastry cutter?
A: You can use a fork or your fingers to incorporate the butter into the flour mixture. The key is to work quickly to keep the butter cold.
Q: Can I add other fruits to the pie?
A: Certainly! Adding fruits like blueberries or raspberries can create a delicious mixed berry pie. Just adjust the sugar and cornstarch accordingly to balance the flavors and thicken the filling.
With these detailed instructions and tips, you’re now ready to bake a cherry pie that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy every delicious bite!
