The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe

The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe is a delightful treat that perfectly balances tartness and sweetness. This pie is ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a festive celebration. With its flaky crust and rich filling, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and flavor, making it an instant favorite among dessert lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Follow: The step-by-step instructions make it accessible even for beginner bakers.
• Versatile Dessert: Great for summer picnics or cozy winter gatherings, this pie fits every season.
• Delicious Flavor: The unique combination of sour cherries and almond extract creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Beautiful Presentation: A golden crust with bubbling juices makes this pie visually appealing on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pie plate
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie plate: Essential for shaping and holding your pie while it bakes, ensuring even cooking.
• Rolling pin: Helps you roll out the dough evenly, providing a consistent thickness for your crust.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients without mess; having multiple sizes is beneficial.

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.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Combine the pie crust ingredients in a mixing bowl.
2. Divide the mixture in half and roll into balls.
3. Flatten each ball to about 1 inch thick using your palm.
4. Wrap each flattened ball in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Step 3: Roll Out the Crust

Roll out one of the chilled crusts on a floured surface. Line a pie plate with it.

Step 4: Mix the Cherry Filling

In a large bowl, mix together all the cherry filling ingredients until well combined. Pour this mixture into the lined pie plate.

Step 5: Top the Pie

Roll out the second crust and place it over the cherry filling. Crimp the edges of both crusts together to seal them. Brush with egg wash or cream if desired, then cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Step 6: Bake the Pie

Place your pie pan on a lined cookie sheet to catch any drips. Bake at 375 degrees for 50-55 minutes, or until you see bubbling juices and a golden-brown top crust.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let your sour cherry pie cool before serving. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream if you have some on hand!

How to Serve The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe

Serving the best sour cherry pie is all about enhancing its delightful flavors and textures. Here are some creative suggestions to make your dessert truly shine.

A La Mode

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing that balances the tartness of the cherries with creamy sweetness.

Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with freshly whipped cream to add a light and airy touch, perfect for cutting through the richness of the pie.

Yogurt Drizzle

• A drizzle of Greek yogurt can add a tangy contrast that complements the sour cherries beautifully while keeping it light.

Coffee or Tea Companion

• Offer a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea alongside your pie to enhance the overall experience, bringing warmth and depth to the meal.

Fruit Salad Side

• A refreshing fruit salad can act as a palate cleanser, providing additional flavors that pair well with the pie’s tartness.

Cheese Pairing

• Add a small plate of mild cheese, like brie or goat cheese, for an unexpected savory contrast to the sweet and sour filling.

How to Perfect The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe

Making any dessert great requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your sour cherry pie turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh cherries: Fresh sour cherries will provide the best flavor compared to canned or frozen options. Look for bright, plump cherries for optimal taste.

• Chill your dough: Ensuring your crust ingredients are cold helps create a flaky texture. Chill the dough before rolling it out for best results.

• Don’t overmix: When combining the flour and shortening for the crust, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough crusts.

• Let it cool: Allowing the pie to cool before slicing will help set the filling, making it easier to serve without spilling.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to play around with spices like nutmeg or ginger in addition to cinnamon for added depth in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe

Pairing your sour cherry pie with complementary sides can enhance your meal. Here’s a list of perfect side dishes you might consider serving:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A creamy ice cream that nicely balances the tartness of cherry pie.
2. Lemon Sorbet – This light sorbet provides a refreshing citrus note that cuts through sweetness.
3. Nutty Granola – A sprinkle of granola adds crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts well with soft pie filling.
4. Cinnamon Roll Muffins – These warm muffins offer a sweet spice that pairs beautifully with fruity desserts.
5. Baked Brie – Warm brie topped with honey creates a rich, savory contrast that complements sweet pies.
6. Mixed Green Salad – A simple salad dressed in vinaigrette adds freshness and balances out rich desserts.
7. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies can introduce earthy flavors that work well after indulgent sweets.
8. Cheese Platter – An assortment of cheeses can provide varied textures and flavors that enhance dessert enjoyment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making sour cherry pie can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can hinder your results.

• Using fresh cherries without pitting – Always ensure your sour cherries are pitted. This prevents unwanted bitterness and makes for a more enjoyable pie.
• Skipping the chilling step – Do not skip chilling the pie crust. Chilling helps the dough firm up, resulting in a flaky crust that holds its shape during baking.
• Overfilling the pie – Be cautious not to overfill your pie with cherry filling. Too much filling can cause it to overflow, creating a mess in your oven.
• Not letting the pie cool – Avoid serving the pie immediately after baking. Allowing it to cool helps the filling set, making it easier to slice and serve.
• Ignoring the oven temperature – Make sure your oven is preheated correctly. An incorrect temperature can lead to uneven baking and affect the final texture of your pie.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pie in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe

• Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it to retain moisture, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe.

How do I choose sour cherries for this recipe?

Select firm, plump sour cherries with vibrant color. They should have a slightly tart flavor but be free from blemishes.

Can I use frozen sour cherries instead?

Yes! Frozen sour cherries work well. Just thaw them and drain excess liquid before using them in the recipe.

What makes The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe unique?

The combination of sweet and tart flavors, along with a flaky crust, makes this pie special. The almond extract adds a unique twist!

How can I customize The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe?

Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra flavor. You could also mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries.

Final Thoughts

The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe stands out with its perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. It’s versatile enough for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual desserts. Experiment with different spices or fruit combinations to make it your own!