Sour Cherry Pie is a classic American dessert celebrated for its vibrant, tart flavor and comforting appeal. This pie showcases the tangy richness of sour cherries, which are prized for their bright, bold taste that stands out in contrast to the sweetness of traditional fruit pies. The filling is a delightful blend of sour cherries that are often harvested at the peak of their season, ensuring maximum flavor. The cherries are combined with just the right amount of sugar and a touch of lemon juice, enhancing their natural tartness and adding a subtle citrusy zing.
The pie is encased in a buttery, flaky crust that provides the perfect balance to the tart filling. The crust, made from scratch, is characterized by its golden-brown, crisp texture that holds up beautifully to the juicy filling. It’s prepared using chilled butter to create a tender, flaky layer that melts in your mouth. The top crust is often adorned with a lattice pattern, allowing the vibrant red filling to peek through, adding to the pie’s visual appeal.
When baked, the pie develops a glossy, bubbling filling that signals the cherries are perfectly cooked and the cornstarch has thickened the juices into a luscious, syrupy consistency. The crust turns a rich golden-brown, with a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft, aromatic fruit inside. Each slice of this pie offers a balance of sweet and tart flavors, with the occasional burst of cherry juice adding to the sensory experience.
Sour Cherry Pie is a quintessential summer dessert, often enjoyed at family gatherings, picnics, or holiday celebrations. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream, which complement the pie’s tangy filling and rich crust. The pie’s combination of tart cherries and buttery pastry creates a comforting, nostalgic treat that resonates with many, making it a beloved choice for those seeking a classic dessert with a refreshing twist.
Whether served warm or at room temperature, Sour Cherry Pie remains a timeless favorite, celebrated for its distinctive flavor and classic appeal.
Ingredients:
For the Pie Filling:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen sour cherries (pitted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into small pieces)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water
For the Egg Wash (optional):
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pie Crust:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the sour cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, salt, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Mix well and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish. Transfer it to the pie dish and trim any excess.
- Pour the cherry filling into the prepared pie crust, and dot with small pieces of butter.
- Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Apply the Egg Wash (optional):
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush this mixture over the top crust and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
- Bake:
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the edges of the crust brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.
- Cool:
- Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This helps the filling set properly.
Tips:
- Sour Cherries: If using frozen cherries, do not thaw them before adding to the filling; just increase the baking time slightly.
- Thickening the Filling: Ensure the cornstarch is well mixed with the sugar before adding to the cherries to prevent lumps.
- Crust Texture: For a flakier crust, avoid overworking the dough and keep the butter cold.
- Serving: This pie is delicious served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Enjoy your homemade Sour Cherry Pie!
