Irresistible Homemade Cherry Pie Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Baking the Perfect Dessert

If you're on the hunt for a dessert that embodies the essence of summer, look no further than this homemade cherry pie recipe. This delightful treat is not……

If you're on the hunt for a dessert that embodies the essence of summer, look no further than this homemade cherry pie recipe. This delightful treat is not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're planning a family gathering, a picnic, or simply want to indulge in something sweet, a cherry pie made from scratch is sure to impress.

### The Allure of Cherry Pie

Cherry pie has long been a staple in American cuisine, celebrated for its vibrant color and sweet-tart flavor. The deep red hue of the cherries, combined with a flaky, buttery crust, creates a visual masterpiece that is hard to resist. But what truly sets this homemade cherry pie recipe apart is the use of fresh, ripe cherries. When in season, they offer a taste that is simply unmatched by store-bought alternatives.

### Ingredients You'll Need

To create this delectable dessert, gather the following ingredients:

- **For the Pie Crust:**

- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 tablespoon sugar

- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced

- 6-8 tablespoons ice water

- **For the Cherry Filling:**

- 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted

- 1 cup granulated sugar

- ¼ cup cornstarch

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

- 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

- 1 tablespoon butter, to dot

### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Prepare the Pie Crust:**

Start by mixing the flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Add the diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least one hour.

2. **Make the Cherry Filling:**

In a large bowl, combine the pitted cherries, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and almond extract. Toss gently to combine and let it sit for about 15 minutes. This allows the cherries to release their juices, creating a delicious filling.

3. **Assemble the Pie:**

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish. Carefully place the rolled dough into the dish, trimming any excess. Pour the cherry filling into the crust and dot with small pieces of butter. Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Seal the edges and cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

4. **Bake the Pie:**

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil.

5. **Cool and Serve:**

Allow the pie to cool for at least two hours before slicing. This cooling time helps the filling set, making it easier to serve. Enjoy your homemade cherry pie on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.

### Conclusion

This homemade cherry pie recipe is not just a dessert; it's an experience that brings comfort and joy to any occasion. The combination of fresh cherries and a flaky crust creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves and embrace the art of pie-making—you won’t regret it! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is simple enough to follow yet impressive enough to wow your guests. Enjoy every bite of your homemade cherry pie!