The Best Sour Cherry Pie Recipe

The Best Sour Cherry Pie is a wonderfully tart and sweet dessert that’s packed with juicy cherries and enveloped in a flaky, buttery crust. It’s not heavy or overly sweet, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. I think it’s an ideal summertime dessert, and if you’re not a fan of sour cherries, feel free to substitute with sweet cherries or a mix of berries.

It will still be undeniably delicious! If you’re looking for a perfectly balanced dessert that’s both tart and sweet, you’ve come to the right place. When you make a luscious cherry filling and pair it with a golden, flaky crust, you get the perfect pie. The addition of a hint of almond extract just sends it over the top. I’ve really been in the mood for summer to arrive, and this delightful pie reminds me of sunny days and family picnics. Not a fan of sour cherries? Don’t worry, it’s still delicious with other fruits!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Pie dish (9-inch)
• Pastry brush
• Knife
• Oven
• Cooling rack

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water

For the Cherry Filling:

• 4 cups fresh or frozen sour cherries, pitted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon water

Directions

1. Prepare the Pie Crust:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
   • Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
   • Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Prepare the Cherry Filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, almond extract, and lemon juice. Mix well and set aside.
3. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Roll Out the Dough:
   • On a lightly floured surface, roll out one of the dough disks into a 12-inch circle. Transfer to a 9-inch pie dish and trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
   • Roll out the second dough disk into another 12-inch circle for the top crust.
5. Assemble the Pie:
   • Pour the cherry filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
   • Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.
   • Place the second dough circle over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal the top and bottom crusts together. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
6. Apply the Egg Wash:
   • In a small bowl, beat the egg with water. Brush the egg wash over the top crust.
7. Bake the Pie:
   • Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
8. Cool the Pie:
   • Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a cooling rack for at least 2 hours before serving.
9. Serve:
   • Slice and serve your Sour Cherry Pie. Enjoy!

This Sour Cherry Pie is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of summer. With its perfectly balanced tart and sweet filling and a flaky, buttery crust, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy!