How do you make cherry pie filling from fresh cherries? If you’re a fan of homemade cherry pie, you’ll be thrilled to learn that it’s easier than you might think. Transforming fresh cherries into a delicious pie filling is a rewarding process that allows you to enjoy the freshest flavors in every bite. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create a mouthwatering cherry pie filling using fresh cherries.
First, gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. You’ll need fresh cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, water, and a pie crust. It’s essential to have a good quality pie crust, as it will provide the perfect foundation for your cherry pie filling. Once you have everything ready, let’s dive into the process.
Start by pitting the cherries. This can be done using a cherry pitter or by hand. If you choose to do it by hand, simply press the cherry between your thumb and forefinger to pop out the pit. Once all the cherries are pitted, place them in a large mixing bowl.
Next, add the sugar to the cherries. The amount of sugar you use will depend on your taste preferences, but a general guideline is to use about 1 cup of sugar for every 2 cups of cherries. Stir the sugar into the cherries until they are well coated.
In a separate saucepan, combine the cornstarch and water. Mix them together until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. This mixture will act as a thickener for your cherry pie filling. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it comes to a boil. Once it boils, continue to stir for about 1 minute to ensure the mixture thickens properly.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. This will add a refreshing zing to your cherry pie filling. Pour the thickened mixture over the cherries and sugar, then gently stir to combine all the ingredients.
Now, it’s time to prepare the pie crust. You can either use a pre-made crust or make your own. If you’re making your own, follow the recipe on the pie crust package or use a simple dough recipe. Once the pie crust is prepared, pour the cherry pie filling into the crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the pie on a baking sheet. Bake the pie for about 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Once the pie is done, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. Enjoy your homemade cherry pie, made from fresh cherries and filled with love and homemade goodness.
