Tart Cherry Pie Filling Recipe

Making your own tart cherry pie filling is a delightful culinary experience. This recipe allows you to create a sweet and tangy filling that is perfect for pies, desserts, or any other sweet treats. Using fresh or frozen sour cherries, you can easily whip up a homemade filling that surpasses store-bought canned versions in taste and quality. So, let’s dive into this easy tart cherry pie filling recipe and satisfy our taste buds!

Key Takeaways:

• Creating homemade tart cherry pie filling lets you customize flavors and control ingredients.
• Montmorency and Morello cherries are popular choices for tart cherry pie filling.
• Investing in a cherry pitter can make the task of pitting cherries easier and quicker.
• Adding tart cherry juice, almond extract, and butter enhances the flavor of the filling.
• Homemade tart cherry pie filling can be used in various desserts, from pies to cakes to ice cream toppings.

Why Make Your Own Cherry Pie Filling?

There are many reasons why making your own cherry pie filling is worth the effort. Not only does it allow you to control the ingredients, but it also gives you the freedom to customize the flavors according to your taste preferences. Whether you prefer the convenience of using canned tart cherry pie filling or the freshness of tart cherry pie filling with fresh cherries, making it from scratch is a simple and rewarding process.

If you’re looking for a simple tart cherry pie filling recipe, you’ll be delighted to know that it only requires a handful of ingredients. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious tart cherry pie filling that is far superior in taste and quality to anything you can buy at the store.

By using fresh or frozen cherries, you have the flexibility to make tart cherry pie filling with whichever cherries are available to you. Whether you have an abundance of fresh cherries in season or prefer the convenience of using frozen cherries all year round, you can enjoy the delightful flavors of homemade tart cherry pie filling anytime.

Homemade tart cherry pie filling is not only delicious but also versatile. It can be used in a variety of desserts, such as pies, tarts, cakes, and even as a topping for ice cream. The options are endless, and you can let your creativity shine by incorporating this delicious filling into your favorite recipes.

“Making your own cherry pie filling allows you to be in full control of the flavors and ingredients, resulting in a taste that is far superior to store-bought options.”

In addition to its superior taste, making your own tart cherry pie filling is a fun and rewarding experience. It allows you to connect with the process of creating a homemade dessert from start to finish, and the satisfaction of enjoying a delicious treat made with your own hands is unmatched.

Benefits of Making Your Own Cherry Pie Filling

• You have control over the ingredients
• Customize the flavors to your liking
• Use fresh or frozen cherries
• Create a superior taste compared to canned options
• Versatile in a variety of desserts

So why settle for a canned tart cherry pie filling when you can easily make your own? Discover the joy of homemade tart cherry pie filling and enhance your pies and desserts with its delicious flavors!

Choosing the Cherries

When making tart cherry pie filling, it’s important to choose the right cherries. This recipe calls for sour cherries, which have a tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the filling. Some common varieties of sour cherries that work well for pie filling are Montmorency and Morello. You can use fresh or frozen cherries, depending on what is available to you. If using frozen cherries, be sure to let them thaw and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.

Pit Those Cherries

Pitting cherries can be a tedious task, but it’s worth it to have perfectly sweet and tart cherry pie filling. If you don’t enjoy pitting cherries by hand, consider investing in a cherry pitter. This affordable tool makes the job much easier and faster, saving you time and frustration. It’s a worthwhile investment if you plan on making cherry pies and fillings regularly.

Using a cherry pitter is simple. Just place the cherry into the pitter and squeeze the handle to remove the pit. The cherries will remain intact, and you won’t have to worry about accidentally squishing them in the process. It’s a quick and efficient way to pit a large quantity of cherries without getting your hands messy.

A cherry pitter is a versatile tool that can be used for various purposes beyond making pie filling. You can also use it to remove the pits from cherries when making cherry preserves, cherry jam, or even for snacking on fresh cherries. It’s a handy gadget to have in the kitchen, especially during cherry season when you want to make the most of these delicious fruits.

Benefits of Using a Cherry Pitter:

• Efficiency: Pitting cherries by hand can be time-consuming and frustrating. A cherry pitter speeds up the process, allowing you to pit multiple cherries in seconds.
• Precision: With a cherry pitter, you can remove the pits from cherries without damaging the fruit. It ensures that your cherry pie filling remains intact and looks visually appealing.
• Less Mess: Pitting cherries can get messy, especially if you’re doing it by hand. A cherry pitter helps contain the mess and prevents cherry juice from splattering all over your kitchen.
• Consistency: Using a cherry pitter ensures that each cherry in your pie filling is pitted consistently. This helps ensure that every bite of your cherry pie is free from unexpected pits.

If you’re passionate about baking with cherries and want to make the process easier and more enjoyable, a cherry pitter is a must-have tool in your kitchen. It’s a small investment that will save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on creating delicious desserts with perfectly pitted cherries.

The Simple Recipe

The recipe for tart cherry pie filling is simple yet flavorful. To make the filling, combine fresh or frozen sour cherries with sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Let the cherries macerate for about 15 minutes to dissolve the sugar. Then, cook the mixture on the stovetop until it thickens and bubbles. Some additional ingredients like tart cherry juice, almond extract, and butter are added for extra flavor and richness. The result is a luscious and sweet-tart filling that is perfect for pies and desserts.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen sour cherries
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 cup tart cherry juice
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Stir well to coat the cherries.
2. Let the cherries sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, allowing them to macerate and dissolve the sugar.
3. Transfer the cherry mixture to a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and bubbles. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the tart cherry juice, almond extract, and butter. Mix until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
5. Let the filling cool completely before using it in your favorite pie or dessert recipe.

With this simple recipe, you can create a delicious tart cherry pie filling that is sure to impress. Whether you use it in a classic cherry pie, a cherry crumble, or even as a topping for ice cream, this homemade filling will elevate your desserts to the next level. Enjoy!

What to Use the Filling For

Once you have your homemade tart cherry pie filling, the possibilities are endless for how you can use it. Of course, it’s perfect for traditional pies, but it can also be used in other baked goods like cherry crisp, cherry puff pastries, cherry galette, or as a cake filling. You can even serve it over waffles or pancakes, or enjoy it plain with a scoop of ice cream. Get creative and experiment with different desserts and treats using this delicious filling.

Tips for the Best Filling

To ensure the best flavor in your tart cherry pie filling, follow these tips:

1. Macerate the cherries: Before cooking, macerate the cherries for about 15 minutes. This process helps dissolve the sugar and enhances the sweetness of the filling. If using frozen cherries, let them sit for an additional 15 minutes to allow them to thaw properly.
2. Add tart cherry juice: For extra juice, flavor, and color, incorporate tart cherry juice into the filling mixture. The tartness of the juice will complement the cherries, elevating the overall taste profile.
3. Fold in butter and almond extract: At the end of the cooking process, add a touch of richness and depth of flavor to the filling by folding in some butter and almond extract. The butter adds a creamy texture, while the almond extract imparts a subtle nutty aroma.

By following these tips, you’ll achieve a tart cherry pie filling that is bursting with vibrant flavors and irresistible taste.

“The combination of macerated cherries, tart cherry juice, butter, and almond extract enhances the flavor and richness of the tart cherry pie filling.”

Baking with the Filling

While this recipe is primarily for cooked filling, you can also use it as a filling for a double-crust fruit pie. If you prefer to bake a cherry pie, I recommend using a separate recipe that is specifically designed for a double-crust pie. Baking a raw fruit filling for a long time can result in a soggy crust, so a different technique is preferred. You can find a cherry pie recipe that suits your needs and follow the instructions for using the homemade tart cherry pie filling.

Here’s an example of a delicious cherry pie recipe that pairs perfectly with the homemade tart cherry pie filling:

Cherry Pie Recipe

• Prepare the double crust pastry according to your preferred recipe or use store-bought pie crust for convenience.
• Roll out half of the pastry and line the bottom of a pie dish.
• Fill the pie with the homemade tart cherry pie filling, spreading it evenly.
• Roll out the remaining pastry and cover the pie, sealing the edges with your fingers or a fork.
• Make a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
• Bake the pie in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
• Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool before serving.

By using this cherry pie recipe and the homemade tart cherry pie filling, you’ll create a delectable dessert that showcases the sweet and tangy flavors of the cherries. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat.

Now you’re ready to enjoy the deliciousness of a homemade tart cherry pie. Whether you choose to make a classic cherry pie or explore other creative ways to use the filling, the result will be a dessert that delights your taste buds and impresses your friends and family.

Storing the Filling

Once you’ve made your delicious homemade tart cherry pie filling, you’ll want to know how to store it properly to enjoy its flavors for longer. Here are some tips for storing your filling:

Refrigerator Storage

The refrigerator is a convenient place to store your tart cherry pie filling, especially if you plan to use it within a week. The high sugar content in the filling helps to preserve its freshness. Simply transfer the filling to an airtight container or jar and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 7 days, allowing you to enjoy it whenever you crave a sweet treat.

Freezer Storage

If you have a large batch of tart cherry pie filling or want to save it for longer, freezing is the best option. Freezing the filling preserves its taste and texture, allowing you to enjoy it months later. Here’s how to freeze your tart cherry pie filling:

1. Allow the filling to cool completely before storing it in the freezer.
2. Transfer the filling to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
3. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
4. Place the container or bag in the freezer, ensuring it is flat and not overcrowded.

Your tart cherry pie filling can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. After 3 months, the flavor may start to diminish slightly, but it will still be safe to eat for up to 12 months. Freezing is a great option for long-term storage, allowing you to enjoy your homemade filling throughout the year.

Canning

“While canning is a common method of preserving various foods, it’s not recommended for homemade tart cherry pie filling. The safety of canning this particular filling has not been tested or approved. To ensure the highest quality and safety of your filling, it’s best to opt for refrigeration or freezing.”

By following these storage methods, you can enjoy your homemade tart cherry pie filling at its best for an extended period. Whether you choose to refrigerate or freeze it, you’ll always have a flavorful and versatile filling ready to elevate your favorite desserts.

Why Make Your Own Filling?

There are several advantages to making your own tart cherry pie filling. By customizing the flavors to your liking, you have the freedom to adjust the amount of sugar and tart cherry juice, creating a filling that perfectly suits your taste buds. Additionally, opting for homemade filling allows you to have complete control over the ingredients. You can choose high-quality, fresh cherries instead of relying on canned options that may contain preservatives or artificial additives. The result is a filling that is not only delicious but also free from unnecessary chemicals.

“Making your own tart cherry pie filling gives you the freedom to customize flavors and control ingredients.”

Furthermore, homemade filling offers a superior taste compared to store-bought versions. The use of fresh, flavorful cherries enhances the natural sweetness and tanginess of the filling. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of enjoying the rich and vibrant flavors of homemade tart cherry pie filling in your desserts.

So, why settle for generic, mass-produced fillings when you can create a truly exceptional and personalized cherry pie experience? Embrace the advantages of homemade tart cherry pie filling and elevate your baking to a whole new level.

Advantages of Homemade Tart Cherry Pie Filling:

• Customize flavors to your liking
• Control over ingredients, choose fresh cherries
• Superior taste compared to store-bought versions
• Free from preservatives and artificial additives

Recipe Summary

In summary, this homemade tart cherry pie filling recipe is easy to make and results in a sweet and tangy filling that is perfect for pies and desserts. You can use fresh or frozen sour cherries to create a delicious filling that will elevate your baked goods.

Follow the simple steps of:

1. Macerating the cherries
2. Cooking them with sugar and cornstarch
3. Adding extra flavorings like tart cherry juice, almond extract, and butter

With this recipe, you’ll have a homemade filling that is far superior to anything you can buy at the store.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making your own homemade tart cherry pie filling is a rewarding and delicious endeavor. By following this easy recipe, you can have a filling that is bursting with the natural flavors of fresh or frozen sour cherries. Whether you use it in pies, cakes, pastries, or as a topping, this filling will add a delicious touch to your desserts. Say goodbye to store-bought canned fillings and embrace the joy of baking with cherries. Happy baking!