The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe

The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer with its vibrant flavors. This pie stands out for its tart cherry filling paired with a perfectly flaky crust, making it ideal for family gatherings, picnics, or holiday celebrations. Its balance of sweetness and tartness will impress your guests while offering a comforting taste of nostalgia.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Follow: The clear instructions make it simple for bakers of all skill levels to create this delicious pie.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh sour cherries elevates the flavor, making each bite a burst of fruity goodness.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as-is, or top it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a holiday feast, this pie fits right in.
• Homemade Goodness: There’s nothing like the satisfaction of baking from scratch, and this recipe delivers just that.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make your baking experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Pie plate
• Baking sheet
• Plastic wrap
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Crucial for combining ingredients without mess.
• Rolling pin: Ensures your dough is evenly flattened for perfect crusts.
• Pie plate: Provides the right shape and structure for your pie.

Ingredients

For the Pie Filling

• 6 cups {2 pounds} sour cherries, pitted
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons tapioca granules
• 2 teaspoons almond extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Pie Crust

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup shortening {I use Crisco}
• 1/3 cup cold water
• 1/2 teaspoon white distilled vinegar
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

How to Make The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your pie bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the pie crust ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup shortening, 1/3 cup cold water, 1/2 teaspoon white distilled vinegar, and 1/8 teaspoon salt.
2. Divide the mixture in half and roll each piece into a ball.
3. Use your palm to flatten each ball to about 1 inch thickness.
4. Wrap each flattened crust in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
5. Roll out one crust and line a pie plate with it.

Step 3: Make the Cherry Filling

In a large bowl, combine:
– 6 cups pitted sour cherries
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
– 3 tablespoons tapioca granules
– 2 teaspoons almond extract
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Gently toss to coat the cherries evenly.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Pour the cherry filling into the prepared crust in the pie plate. Roll out the second crust and place it on top of the filling. Crimp the edges together firmly. Brush with an egg wash or cream, then cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Step 5: Bake Your Pie

Place your pie pan on a lined cookie sheet (to catch any drips) and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 50–55 minutes. Look for bubbling juices and a golden-brown crust.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let your pie cool before serving. For an indulgent treat, serve with a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream if available. Enjoy!

How to Serve The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe

The Best Sour Cherry Pie is a delightful dessert that brings a burst of flavor to any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your pie experience.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy texture complements the tartness of the cherries beautifully.
• Almond Ice Cream: This nutty flavor accentuates the almond extract in the pie filling, creating a harmonious balance.

Add Fresh Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it adds richness to each slice of pie.
• Cinnamon Whipped Cream: A sprinkle of cinnamon in your whipped cream can add an exciting twist.

Serve with Coffee or Tea

• Black Coffee: The bitterness of coffee contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the pie.
• Herbal Tea: A refreshing herbal tea can cleanse the palate after each bite.

Garnish with Nuts

• Chopped Pecans: Sprinkle over slices for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Slivered Almonds: These can enhance the almond notes in your pie while providing texture.

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How to Perfect The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe

Getting your sour cherry pie just right can take it from good to fantastic. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfection.

• Use Fresh Cherries: Fresh sour cherries will provide the best flavor and texture for your pie.
• Adjust Sugar According to Taste: Depending on how tart your cherries are, you may want to adjust the sugar amount slightly.
• Let it Cool: Allowing your pie to cool before slicing helps set the filling, making for cleaner slices.
• Egg Wash for Shine: Brushing your top crust with an egg wash gives it a beautiful golden color when baked.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe

While The Best Sour Cherry Pie is delicious on its own, pairing it with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Savory Cheese Platter: A mix of sharp cheeses balances the sweetness of the pie perfectly.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and cuts through the richness.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies offer a hearty side that complements dessert well.
4. Grilled Chicken Skewers: These provide protein that rounds out your meal without overwhelming dessert.
5. Buttery Cornbread: The slight sweetness in cornbread pairs nicely with sour cherry flavors.
6. Chocolate Mousse: For chocolate lovers, this rich dessert makes an indulgent pairing with fruity pies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe, avoiding common mistakes can help ensure a successful outcome. Here are some crucial pitfalls to watch for:

• Using fresh cherries without pitting: Always pit your sour cherries before using them. This step is essential for both flavor and texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons for the best results, especially for flour and sugar.
• Skipping the chilling time: Chilling your pie crust allows it to firm up, which helps maintain its shape while baking. Don’t rush this step; aim for at least one hour in the fridge.
• Neglecting to vent the top crust: Cutting slits in the top crust allows steam to escape, preventing sogginess. Make sure to create enough openings before baking.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated properly. Baking at 375 degrees guarantees a golden brown crust and bubbly filling.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pie in an airtight container.
• The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe stays fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat and cover with a lid, heating until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe unique?

This pie stands out due to its perfect balance of tartness from sour cherries paired with a sweet and flaky crust, creating an irresistible dessert.

Can I use frozen cherries instead?

Yes! Frozen sour cherries work well, but ensure they are thawed and drained before using them in your pie filling.

How can I customize The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe?

You can add spices like nutmeg or incorporate other fruits such as blueberries or raspberries for added flavor.

What should I serve with sour cherry pie?

Serving it with homemade vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream enhances its deliciousness and adds a creamy contrast.

Final Thoughts

The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe is not just delightful but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different fruits or spices. This classic dessert is perfect for any occasion, so don’t hesitate to try it out and impress your friends and family!