If you have a sweet spot for classic fruit desserts, this Baked Fresh Cherry Pie Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It’s bursting with vibrant cherries nestled in a golden, flaky crust that’s both buttery and perfectly crisp, making every bite an irresistible harmony of tart and sweet. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting homemade treat, this pie brings that nostalgic warmth and fresh fruit flavor that feels like a hug from the inside.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this pie lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in balancing flavor and texture. Using fresh cherries ensures a juicy, vibrant filling, while the tapioca works magic as a thickener, giving you a perfectly set pie without sogginess.
- 1 recipe pastry for a 9-inch double crust pie: This forms your buttery, flaky base and protective top for the filling.
- 4 tablespoons quick-cooking tapioca: Acts as a natural thickener, turning juices into a luscious filling.
- ⅛ teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and complexity of the filling.
- 1 cup white sugar: Balances the tartness of the cherries with a clean sweetness.
- 4 cups pitted cherries: The star ingredient, bringing juicy freshness and that iconic cherry flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract: Adds a subtle nutty aroma that perfectly complements the cherries.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a warm, sweet hint.
- 1 ½ tablespoons butter: Dotting the filling with butter gives richness and a smooth finish.
How to Make Baked Fresh Cherry Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C). Lay your bottom pie crust carefully into a 9-inch pie pan, making sure it fits snugly. Cover your top crust with a clean cloth to keep it fresh and ready for later.
Step 2: Mix the Cherry Filling
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the quick-cooking tapioca, salt, sugar, pitted cherries, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Let this mixture sit for 15 minutes so the tapioca can start absorbing the cherry juices and the flavors have time to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Pour the luscious cherry filling into the prepared bottom crust. Then, dot the filling with little pieces of butter—it adds a rich creaminess that takes the filling to another level. Carefully place the top crust over the cherries, flute the edges to seal the pie, and cut a few vents in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Set your pie on a foil-lined cookie sheet to catch any bubbling juices that might drip while baking. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the crust is a beautiful golden brown and the filling is bubbling up through the vents.
Step 5: Cool and Set
Once out of the oven, be patient and let the pie cool for several hours. This crucial cooling time helps the filling set nicely so when you slice it, the juicy cherry mixture stays put, giving you perfect pie slices every time.
How to Serve Baked Fresh Cherry Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Top your freshly sliced pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an indulgent contrast of cold and warm textures. A sprinkling of toasted almond flakes can add a delightful crunch and a nutty aroma that pairs beautifully with the cherry filling.
Side Dishes
Cherry pie pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a fresh green salad or a light citrus sorbet to balance the sweetness with refreshing acidity. For cozy family dinners, a cup of strong black coffee or a glass of sparkling wine can complement the rich, fruity flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual slices on rustic wooden boards for a charming, country-style feel or use delicate dessert plates with a drizzle of warm chocolate or caramel sauce to add elegance. You can even sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar or cinnamon on top for visual appeal that adds a subtle flavor boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cherry pie covered loosely with foil or plastic wrap at room temperature for up to two days to maintain the crust’s flakiness. For longer storage, refrigeration works well but may cause the crust to soften slightly.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked assembled pie for up to one month. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.
Reheating
Rewarm cooled pie slices in a 350-degree F oven for 10 to 15 minutes to revive that crisp, flaky crust and warm filling. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy and rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh for the Baked Fresh Cherry Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work well when fresh are not available. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your filling, which can make the pie runny.
Why is tapioca used in this recipe?
Tapioca is a fantastic thickener that absorbs the cherry juices and creates a gel-like filling, ensuring your pie is perfectly set without being watery or overly sweet.
Can I substitute almond extract with something else?
If you don’t have almond extract, vanilla alone will still give your pie a lovely depth of flavor. A splash of brandy or kirsch can also add a sophisticated twist.
How do I prevent the crust from burning?
If you notice your crust browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil halfway through baking to shield them from direct heat while the filling finishes cooking.
Is it better to eat cherry pie warm or cold?
The choice is yours! Warm pie offers melty, luscious filling with a softer crust, while cold pie provides firmer slices and a refreshing fruity bite. Both are delicious ways to enjoy this classic.
Final Thoughts
Every time I make this Baked Fresh Cherry Pie Recipe, it reminds me why classic pies are so timeless and beloved. The perfect blend of tangy cherries, silky thickened filling, and flaky crust creates an unforgettable dessert that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious. I hope you give it a try and find yourself coming back to it again and again.
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Baked Fresh Cherry Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This classic baked fresh cherry pie features a flaky double crust filled with sweet, juicy cherries enhanced by almond and vanilla extracts. Perfectly golden and bubbling, it’s a timeless dessert to enjoy any time of year.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 recipe pastry for a 9-inch double crust pie
Filling
- 4 tablespoons quick-cooking tapioca
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup white sugar
- 4 cups pitted cherries
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C). Place the bottom crust inside a 9-inch pie pan, and set the top crust aside, keeping it covered to prevent drying.
- Prepare Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the quick-cooking tapioca, salt, white sugar, pitted cherries, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Stir gently to mix and let the mixture stand for 15 minutes to thicken.
- Assemble Pie: Pour the cherry filling into the prepared bottom crust. Dot the filling evenly with small pieces of butter to add richness during baking.
- Top Crust: Cover the filling with the top crust, trim any excess dough, and flute the edges to seal. Cut vents or slits into the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the pie on a foil-lined cookie sheet to catch any possible drips during the baking process, protecting your oven.
- Bake: Bake the pie in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until the crust turns a beautiful golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for several hours to let the filling set properly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Using fresh, ripe cherries yields the best flavor and texture.
- Quick-cooking tapioca helps thicken the filling and prevent it from becoming watery.
- Cooling the pie completely is essential for clean slices and optimal filling consistency.
- For a shinier crust, you can brush the top crust with an egg wash before baking.
- If you prefer a sweeter or tarter pie, adjust sugar according to your taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
