Homemade Sour Cherry Pie Filling is one of my favorite treats to whip up during cherry season. The bright, tart flavor of sour cherries combined with a touch of sweetness creates a delightful filling that can elevate any dessert. I remember the first time I made this filling; it was a sunny afternoon, and the scent of cherries filled my kitchen. It brought back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where she would bake pies that made everyone feel at home.
Why Choose This Recipe?
Making your own sour cherry pie filling has its perks. First, you get to control the ingredients. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking and avoid any preservatives or artificial flavors that store-bought versions might contain. Plus, there’s something satisfying about creating a delicious filling from scratch.
Ingredients for Homemade Sour Cherry Pie Filling
To make this pie filling, you will need a few simple ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen sour cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
How to Make Homemade Sour Cherry Pie Filling
If you are using fresh cherries, the first step is to pit them. I remember spending hours with my family pitting cherries during the summer. It’s a fun activity, especially if you have kids to help out. You can use a cherry pitter or simply cut them in half and remove the pit with your fingers.
If you are using frozen cherries, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Just add them directly to the pot; they will release their juices as they cook.
Cooking the Filling
Once your cherries are ready, it’s time to cook the filling. Here’s how to do it:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sour cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, salt, and almond extract. If you like a hint of spice, add cinnamon.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently as it heats up. The sugar will begin to dissolve, and the cherries will start to release their juices.
- Once the mixture starts to bubble, reduce the heat to low. Continue to cook for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Tips
When making sour cherry pie filling, a few tips can help you achieve the best results:
- Taste as You Go: Always taste the filling as it cooks. If you find it too tart, add a little more sugar. If it’s too sweet, a splash of lemon juice can balance it out.
- Let It Cool: Allow the filling to cool completely before using it in your pie. This helps it set up nicely and prevents a soggy crust.
- Use Quality Cherries: Fresh, ripe sour cherries will give you the best flavor. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen cherries are a great alternative.
Storing
If you have leftover filling or want to make it ahead of time, storing it is easy. Here’s how:
- In the Refrigerator: Store the filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure it cools completely before sealing.
- In the Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the filling. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It will keep for up to a year.
Using Your Sour Cherry Pie Filling
Now that you have your delicious filling, it’s time to put it to use. Here are a few ideas:
- Classic Sour Cherry Pie: Use your filling to make a traditional pie. Top it with a flaky crust and bake until golden.
- Sour Cherry Crisp: Spread the filling in a baking dish and top it with a crumbly mixture of oats, butter, and brown sugar. Bake until bubbly.
- Sour Cherry Tarts: Fill tart shells with the cherry mixture for individual desserts.
- Sour Cherry Sauce: Use it as a sauce over ice cream or pancakes for a delightful treat.
Pairing Ideas
The tartness of sour cherries pairs well with various flavors. Here are some of my favorite combinations:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream balances the tartness perfectly.
- Almond Flavor: Almond extract in the filling enhances the cherry flavor and adds a lovely aroma.
- Chocolate: Dark chocolate and sour cherries are a match made in dessert heaven. Consider adding chocolate shavings on top of your pie.
Health Benefits
Sour cherries are not just delicious; they also offer several health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation. They also contain vitamins A and C, which are great for your immune system. Including sour cherries in your diet can be a tasty way to boost your health.
Enjoying Your Recipe
Making Homemade Sour Cherry Pie Filling is an enjoyable experience that brings back warm memories for me. The sweet and tart flavors combine to make a delicious treat that can be shared with family and friends. Whether you use it in a pie, a crisp, or as a topping, this filling is sure to impress. I hope you give this recipe a try. The next time cherry season rolls around, you’ll have a delicious way to enjoy those beautiful fruits.