Get ready to transform ordinary cherries into a mouthwatering, glossy pie filling that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This classic American dessert is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen, promising a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and utterly delectable flavors that will have everyone begging for your recipe. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this cherry crisp pie filling is so simple and foolproof, you'll wonder why you haven't been making it this way all along!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 pie
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
- Prepare the cherries by thoroughly washing fresh cherries or thawing frozen cherries completely. If using fresh cherries, remove the pits using a cherry pitter or by carefully cutting and removing them by hand.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pitted cherries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Gently stir to ensure all cherries are evenly coated with the mixture.
- Allow the cherry mixture to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. This resting period helps the cherries release their natural juices and allows the cornstarch to begin absorbing liquid.
- Transfer the cherry mixture to a large saucepan or skillet. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Cook the cherry mixture for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently. The mixture will begin to thicken and become glossy as the cornstarch activates and the cherries release their juices.
- Remove the filling from heat when it reaches a thick, jam-like consistency. The filling should coat the back of a spoon and have a smooth, glossy appearance.
- Let the cherry pie filling cool for 15-20 minutes at room temperature. The filling will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Use immediately in a pie crust, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cherries: Fresh or frozen both work great, but ensure they're fully pitted and free from stems.
- Cornstarch is Your Thickening Friend: Measure it precisely to get that perfect glossy, jam-like consistency.
- Don't Rush the Cooking Process: Stir constantly and cook on medium heat to prevent burning and ensure even thickening.
- Flavor Boosters: The combination of vanilla and almond extract adds depth, but feel free to adjust to your taste.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the filling cool for at least 15-20 minutes to achieve the ideal texture.
- Storage Hack: This filling can be refrigerated for up to 5 days, making it perfect for advance preparation.
- Temperature Matters: Room temperature cherries mix more evenly with sugar and cornstarch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 63g
Protein: 1g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
