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The Best Cherry Pie Recipe

This classic cherry pie is made with a buttery, flaky crust and a sweet-tart cherry filling that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for summer gatherings, holidays, or any time you’re craving a homemade fruit pie!
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 360
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pie Crust
  • 2 pie crusts homemade or store-bought
Cherry Filling
  • 5 cups fresh or frozen cherries pitted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 tablespoons cornstarch for thickening
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract optional, enhances flavor
  • 1 tablespoon butter cut into small pieces
For Brushing
  • 1 egg lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for sprinkling

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Rolling Pin
  • 9-inch pie dish
  • Pastry brush
  • Saucepan

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place one pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish.
  2. In a large saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 8–10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in butter.
  3. Pour the cherry filling into the prepared crust. Spread evenly.
  4. Top with the second crust, either whole with slits cut in or as a lattice. Seal edges and crimp decoratively.
  5. Brush the top crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar for a golden finish.
  6. Bake for 45–55 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
  7. Cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps the filling set properly.

Notes

Use a mix of sweet and tart cherries for the best flavor. Frozen cherries work just as well—just thaw and drain them first. Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat. 🍒🥧