Cherry Pie Filling
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There’s something undeniably nostalgic about homemade cherry pie. It’s the epitome of classic comfort food. This recipe for cherry pie filling is the perfect starting point for your own delicious pie creation. Whether you’re using a store-bought crust or making your own flaky crust, this sweet and tangy filling is the star of this pie. It’s also a great base for other desserts like ice cream toppings, crumbles, or even just a spoonful straight from the jar.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pie Filling Recipe
- Versatile and Delicious: This cherry pie filling is incredibly versatile. Use it for classic pie, top it with ice cream, or drizzle it over pancakes – the possibilities are endless!
- Easy Peasy: No complicated techniques or ingredients here. This recipe is simple and straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Fresh or Frozen Flexibility: Use fresh or frozen cherries, depending on what you have on hand or what’s in season.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare this filling in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer, ready to use whenever you need it.
- Perfect for Gifting: This homemade cherry pie filling makes a thoughtful and delicious gift for friends and family. It’s sure to impress!
Ingredients Needed To Make This Cherry Pie Filling Recipe
Make sure you scroll down to the recipe card to see the full list of ingredients needed for this recipe.
- Cherries (fresh or frozen)
- Water
- Orange zest (optional)
- Almond extract
- Sugar
- Cornstarch
- Cinnamon
How To Make This Cherry Pie Filling Recipe
- Prep the Cherries: If you’re using fresh cherries, use a cherry pitter to remove the pits.
- Make the Filling: In a large pot, combine the cherries, water, orange zest, almond extract, sugar, and cornstarch.Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
- Cool It Down: Let the filling cool completely before using it in your pie. You can store it in the fridge for a few days or freeze it for later.
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Pitted Cherries?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries are a great time-saving option. Simply thaw them before adding them to the pot. You may need to add a little extra cornstarch to thicken the filling as frozen cherries tend to release more liquid.
Can I Make This Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, this cherry pie filling can be made ahead of time. Let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What Else Can I Use This Filling For?
This versatile cherry filling can be used in a variety of desserts. Try it as a topping for ice cream, pancakes, or waffles. You can also use it as a filling for Cherry Pie Biscuits, Cherry Cheesecake Danish Sliders, and Cherry Cobbler!
Cherry Pie Filling Recipe
Equipment
- Spoon or Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 6 cups cherries fresh or frozen
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tsp orange zest optional
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 tbsp cornstarch
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherries: If using fresh cherries, pit the cherries and remove the stems.
- Make the Slurry: In a bowl, mix together the water and cornstarch until a slurry is formed.
- Cook the Filling: Place a large stock pot over medium/low heat. Add the cherries, orange zest, cinnamon, sugar, almond extract, and the slurry to the stock pot. Cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the sauce is thickened.
- Cool and Store: Allow the sauce to cool for about 30 minutes. The sauce will hold for 2 weeks in the fridge or can be frozen for longer storage.
- Enjoy your cherry pie filling!
Notes
Nutrition
This homemade cherry pie filling is a game-changer! It’s so much better than anything you can buy in a store and it’s incredibly versatile. You’ll be reaching for this delicious filling for all your pie, crumble, and ice cream needs. Trust me,once you make your own cherry pie filling, you’ll never go back to the store-bought stuff again!
Absolutely loved this recipe! I made this with fresh cherries and used it in a cherry dump cake. Will definitely use this recipe again!!