This Easy Grandma’s Sweet Cherry Pie brings comfort to any table! With juicy cherries tucked in a flaky crust, it shines like a red gem, ready to be devoured.
Baking this pie always reminds me of warm family gatherings. I serve it with a scoop of ice cream on top. Who can resist that sweet cherry goodness? 🍒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherries: Fresh sweet cherries are ideal, but frozen ones work perfectly too. Just ensure they’re pitted! If cherries aren’t in season, consider substituting with blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor.
Sugar: Regular granulated sugar sweetens the filling, but feel free to use brown sugar for a deeper flavor or a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Cornstarch: This thickens the filling. If you don’t have cornstarch, try using flour instead, but keep in mind that it may not be as clear or glossy.
Almond Extract: This adds a nice touch of flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can simply leave it out or substitute with vanilla extract for a different but delicious taste.
Butter: It adds richness to the filling. You could also use margarine or coconut oil if you prefer a dairy-free option.
How Do I Make a Lattice Pie Crust?
Creating a lattice pie crust may seem tricky, but it’s quite simple! Here’s how you can do it:
- After rolling out the second pie crust, cut it into strips, about 1 inch wide.
- Lay half of the strips vertically over the filling, spaced evenly apart.
- Start weaving the other half of the strips horizontally over the top, alternating them under and over the vertical strips. This creates that lovely lattice look!
- Trim the ends of the strips and seal them by pinching together with the bottom crust’s edges.
Practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if it’s not flawless. Your pie will still be delicious!
Easy Grandma’s Sweet Cherry Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 1/2 cups fresh or frozen sweet cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade pie dough)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cherry pie takes about 20 minutes to prepare and around 55-60 minutes to bake. Plus, you’ll want to let it cool for at least 2 hours to set properly. In total, plan for a little over 3 hours, but most of it is just waiting time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Oven and Filling:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While that’s heating up, grab a large bowl. Combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, almond extract (if you’re using it), and salt. Mix everything gently until the cherries are well coated, and set this mixture aside for about 10 minutes. This allows the sugar to bring out the yummy cherry juices!
2. Making the Pie Crust:
Next, lightly flour your work surface. Roll out one of the pie crusts to fit into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently against the bottom and sides. This is your base for all that delicious cherry filling!
3. Filling the Pie:
Pour the cherry filling into your prepared crust. Take small pieces of butter and dot them around the top of the filling to add richness.
4. Creating the Lattice Top:
Roll out the second pie crust and cut it into strips about 1 inch wide to make your lattice. Arrange the strips over the cherry filling in a crisscross pattern, and feel free to play with the design. Trim any excess dough from the edges and pinch them together with the bottom crust to seal it all up nicely!
5. Finishing Touches:
Brush the lattice crust with the beaten egg to give it a lovely golden color when baked. If you’d like, sprinkle the top with coarse sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
6. Baking the Pie:
Place your pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake it at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes. Then, lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling away!
7. Cooling and Serving:
Once baked, take the pie out of the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This helps the filling set properly, making it easier to slice. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra special treat.
Enjoy your homemade Easy Grandma’s Sweet Cherry Pie!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Cherries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work well in this recipe. Just ensure they’re fully thawed and drained of excess juice before mixing with the sugar and cornstarch to prevent a watery filling.
How Can I Make the Pie Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the pie and assemble it, then cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can bake it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To enjoy it warm, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Can I Use a Different Type of Fruit?
Yes! This recipe is versatile. You can use other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even a mix of berries. Just adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you’re using.
