Simple Cherry Pie Filling
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Whip up a delightful dessert with this easy Simple Cherry Pie Filling recipe. Fresh or frozen cherries come together with a touch of sugar and a hint of lemon for a sweet and tangy filling that's perfect for pies, tarts, or even as a topping for ice cream. This versatile recipe will elevate your baking and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Uses fresh or frozen cherries
- Perfectly sweet and tangy flavor
- Versatile for pies, tarts, and toppings
The Joy of Homemade Cherry Filling
Making your own cherry pie filling at home brings the wonderful taste of summer to your kitchen all year round. There's something truly comforting about working with fresh or frozen cherries, whether you picked them yourself or bought them from a local market. The vibrant color and enticing aroma can brighten any day, making your baking experience even more enjoyable. Plus, creating this filling from scratch gives you full control over the sweetness and flavor, allowing you to adjust it to your personal preferences.
This recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to create a variety of desserts. From classic cherry pies to elegant tarts, and even as a topping for yogurt or ice cream, the possibilities are endless. The balance of sweet and tangy flavors makes it a perfect companion for many treats, enhancing their overall appeal. You'll find that once you try this recipe, you will want to keep it on hand for all your favorite desserts.
Tips for Perfect Cherry Pie Filling
To ensure that your cherry pie filling comes out perfectly every time, consider using high-quality cherries—whether fresh or frozen. If using fresh cherries, look for plump, firm fruits that are deep red in color. For frozen cherries, choose a brand that prioritizes quality. This can make a noticeable difference in taste and texture. Additionally, if you're feeling adventurous, experiment with adding a pinch of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor that complements cherries beautifully.
Make sure to taste the filling as it cooks—this is your opportunity to adjust the sweetness or acidity with more sugar or lemon juice. The cooking process also helps the flavors meld together and enhances the overall taste of the filling. Remember that as it cools, the filling will thicken further, so you want to achieve the right consistency while it’s still warm.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Simple Cherry Pie Filling Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Cherries
In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and water.
Cook the Filling
Over medium heat, cook the mixture, stirring frequently until it begins to thicken, about 5-10 minutes.
Cool and Use
Remove from heat and let it cool before using as a pie filling or topping.
Storage Tips for Cherry Pie Filling
Once you’ve prepared your cherry pie filling, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This allows you to have it ready for use in various dishes. If you want to keep it for a longer time, consider freezing the filling. Simply place it in a freezer-safe container and it can last for months. When you’re ready to use it, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or heat it gently on the stove until it’s ready.
When freezing, make sure to leave some space in the container, as the filling will expand. It’s also a good idea to label your container with the date and contents, so you always know what you have on hand. When you're in need of a quick dessert, having this cherry filling ready to go can save you time and effort.
Delicious Serving Suggestions
This cherry pie filling is not just for pies! Consider using it as a topping for pancakes or waffles for a delightful breakfast treat. It can also be spooned over cheesecake for an elegant dessert that will impress guests. If you enjoy baking, you can fold the filling into your favorite muffins or bread recipes for a fruity twist. The versatility of this filling allows it to enhance a variety of dishes, making it more than just a simple pie ingredient.
For a refreshing summer dessert, try layering the cherry filling with whipped cream and crushed graham crackers in a parfait. The contrasts of flavors and textures will create a delightful treat that everyone will enjoy. Get creative and see how you can incorporate this delicious cherry filling into your culinary creations.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cherries work perfectly and can be used straight from the freezer.
→ How long can I store the pie filling?
You can store the pie filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Simple Cherry Pie Filling
Whip up a delightful dessert with this easy Simple Cherry Pie Filling recipe. Fresh or frozen cherries come together with a touch of sugar and a hint of lemon for a sweet and tangy filling that's perfect for pies, tarts, or even as a topping for ice cream. This versatile recipe will elevate your baking and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Created by: Freya Cooper
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Simple Cherry Pie Filling Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
How-To Steps
In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and water.
Over medium heat, cook the mixture, stirring frequently until it begins to thicken, about 5-10 minutes.
Remove from heat and let it cool before using as a pie filling or topping.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Sugar: 30g
- Protein: 1g