Delicious Cherry Pie Filling and Creative Recipes

Cherry pie filling is a versatile and delightful component for various desserts, providing a sweet and tart flavor that can elevate any dish. Whether you're making a classic cherry pie, a refreshing cherry cream cheese dessert, or a quick cherry crisp, the homemade cherry filling can make all the difference. Below, we will explore the process of making cherry pie filling, along with several creative recipes that incorporate this delicious filling.

Making Homemade Cherry Pie Filling

To start off, let's dive into how to make a simple yet delicious homemade cherry pie filling. This recipe will yield enough filling for one pie, ensuring that you have a rich, flavorful base for your desserts.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds (approximately 3202 grams) fresh sour cherries, pitted
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup cherry juice (reserved from the pitted cherries)
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the pitted cherries with sugar and cornstarch. Toss to coat the cherries evenly.
2. Add the lemon juice and reserved cherry juice to the mixture, stirring gently to combine. Set aside for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Transfer the mixture to a large pot and cook over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture starts to bubble. This process will help thicken the filling.
4. Once bubbling, remove from heat and stir in the almond extract and cold butter until melted and well combined.
5. Let the filling cool before using it in your favorite recipes. You can store it in jars in the fridge for up to 7 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Cherry Pie Recipes

Now that you have your homemade cherry pie filling ready, let's explore some delightful recipes that utilize this filling.

1. Classic Cherry Pie

This traditional cherry pie recipe is a must-try. It features a flaky double crust and a luscious cherry filling that will remind you of homemade goodness.

Ingredients:

• 1 double crust pie shell
• 2 1/2 cups sugar
• 2/3 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 cans tart (pitted) cherries in water (drained)
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2-3 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix sugar, flour, and cinnamon together.
3. Drain the cherries, reserving 1/3 cup of juice. In a saucepan, combine the cherries and reserved juice with the dry mixture. Cook while stirring until the mixture is bubbling and thickens (about 1-2 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in the almond extract. Pour the filling into the prepared pie shell and dot with butter.
5. Cover with the top crust, sealing the edges, and cut vents in the top for steam to escape. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool for at least 1 hour before serving.

2. Cherry Cream Cheese Pie

If you're looking for a no-bake option, this cherry cream cheese pie is perfect. It's simple, delicious, and has a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the cherry filling.

Ingredients:

• 1 can of cherry pie filling
• 8 oz sweetened condensed milk
• 1/3 cup cream cheese (softened)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Graham cracker crust (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature, then beat it with the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into your graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
3. Top with cherry pie filling and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or longer for best flavor.
4. Slice and serve chilled, enjoying the delightful blend of cream cheese and cherry flavors.

3. Cherry Pie Crisp

This cherry crisp is a comforting dessert that combines the deliciousness of cherry pie filling with a crunchy topping. It's perfect served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients:

• 1 quart of cherry pie filling (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup quick oats
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup softened butter
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Spread half of the mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish or pie plate to form the crust.
4. Pour the cherry pie filling over the crust, then sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy. Serve warm with ice cream for an extra treat!

Creative Uses for Cherry Pie Filling

Cherry pie filling isn't just for pies! Here are some creative ways to use your homemade cherry pie filling.

1. Cherry Pie Bars

These bars are a sweet and simple dessert, perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
3. Mix flour and salt, then gradually add to the butter mixture until smooth.
4. Spread two-thirds of the dough into the prepared dish, then spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the filling and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.

2. Cherry Delight

This layered dessert is perfect for parties and potlucks.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
• 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

Instructions:

1. Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl, then press into the bottom of a 9x9 inch dish to form the crust.
2. In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
3. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the crust, then top with cherry pie filling and whipped topping.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Conclusion

Cherry pie filling is a wonderful way to enhance your desserts, whether you prefer the classic pie, a no-bake option, or even a delicious crisp. With these recipes and tips, you can enjoy the sweet-tart flavor of cherries in various delightful forms. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and start baking!