Cherry Apple Pie

This Cherry Apple Pie is a delightful fusion of sweet and tart flavors, encased in a flaky, buttery crust. Perfect for any occasion—be it a family gathering or a cozy night in—this pie showcases the best of both cherries and apples. The juicy filling paired with the crispy crust makes it an irresistible dessert that will please everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cherries and apples creates a unique taste that is both sweet and tangy.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this pie is accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a casual dinner, this pie fits perfectly into any event.
• Showstopper Presentation: The vibrant colors of cherries and apples, along with a beautifully crafted crust, make for an eye-catching dessert.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or incorporate other fruits based on your personal preference.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your cherry apple pie, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Pie dish (9-inch)
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining your dry ingredients and mixing your filling without spilling.
• Rolling pin: A rolling pin helps you achieve that perfect thinness for your pie crust, ensuring it bakes evenly.
• Pie dish (9-inch): Using the right size ensures your pie has enough room for both the filling and crust without overflowing.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 340 g all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 230 g unsalted butter (cold & cubed)
• 140 g ice cold water

For the Filling

• 4 tart apples (about 700g after peeled, cored, and sliced)
• 300 g red cherries (pitted & halved)
• 50 g brown sugar
• 20 g cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For Topping

• 1 egg (beaten)
• 2 tablespoons sugar crystals or coarse sugar

How to Make Cherry Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
2. Add the cold butter cubes and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice cold water until dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In another bowl, mix sliced apples with pitted cherries.
2. Add brown sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you roll out the dough.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

1. On a floured surface, roll out half of the chilled dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter.
2. Carefully transfer it to your pie dish.

Step 5: Fill with Fruit Mixture

Pour the cherry apple filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 6: Top with Remaining Dough

Roll out the second half of the dough. You can create a lattice top or simply cover with another layer of dough. Seal edges well.

Step 7: Bake

Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar crystals. Bake for about 70 minutes until golden brown.

Enjoy your homemade cherry apple pie warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Cherry Apple Pie

Serving cherry apple pie can be a delightful experience. There are many ways to present this scrumptious dessert that will elevate its appeal and enhance the overall enjoyment.

A La Mode

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a creamy contrast to the fruity filling. The cold ice cream melts slightly, creating a delightful mix of flavors.

With Whipped Cream

• Top slices with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy addition. It adds sweetness and pairs beautifully with both cherries and apples.

Warmed Up

• Serve the pie warm for an inviting aroma that fills the room. Warming enhances the flavors and makes the pie even more comforting.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add drizzles of caramel sauce for extra sweetness. This rich topping complements the tartness of the cherries perfectly.

On a Festive Table

• Include cherry apple pie as part of a dessert spread during gatherings. Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing alongside other treats.

With Fresh Mint Leaves

• Garnish each slice with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness. This adds an aromatic element that uplifts the dish.

How to Perfect Cherry Apple Pie

Creating the perfect cherry apple pie takes some practice, but these tips can help you achieve delicious results every time.

• Choose ripe fruits: Select tart apples and fresh cherries. Ripe fruit ensures that your filling is bursting with flavor.

• Use cold ingredients: Keep your butter and water ice-cold when making the crust. This helps create a flaky texture in your pie crust.

• Don’t overfill: Fill your pie crust just enough to allow for bubbling during baking, preventing spills while maintaining an attractive look.

• Pre-bake the crust: Consider par-baking your crust before adding the filling. This helps keep it crisp and prevents sogginess.

• Seal edges well: Make sure to crimp or seal your crust edges properly. This not only looks nice but also keeps juices from leaking out.

• Let it cool: Allow your cherry apple pie to cool before slicing. This helps set the filling, making it easier to cut clean pieces.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Apple Pie

Pairing side dishes with cherry apple pie can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like cheddar or brie complements the sweetness of the pie wonderfully.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: Classic pairing; its creaminess balances out the tartness of cherries.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can refresh the palate between bites of rich pie.
4. Coffee or Tea: Serving warm beverages cuts through sweetness, adding warmth to dessert time.
5. Candied Nuts: Crunchy candied nuts provide texture contrast and an additional sweet note.
6. Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of chocolate sauce offers a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
7. Custard Sauce: A pourable custard brings richness, making every bite even more indulgent.
8. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt parfaits add brightness and tang, balancing dessert flavors nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a cherry apple pie can be straightforward, but certain errors can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using warm ingredients: Always use cold butter and ice water for the crust. This helps create a flaky texture that holds up well during baking.

• Overmixing the dough: Mix your pie crust ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough dough rather than a tender crust.

• Skipping the chilling step: After making your crust, chill it for at least 30 minutes. This helps relax the gluten and prevents shrinkage while baking.

• Not tasting the filling: Always taste your cherry and apple filling before baking. Adjust sweetness or spices as needed to enhance the flavor.

• Cutting vents too small: When creating vents in your pie, make sure they are large enough for steam to escape. This prevents a soggy bottom and ensures even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover cherry apple pie in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cherry Apple Pie

• Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Cherry Apple Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-60 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as it may make the crust chewy.

• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm slowly for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my cherry apple pie filling thicker?

To thicken your cherry apple pie filling, consider adding more cornstarch or using less fruit juice. Make sure to mix it well before pouring into the crust.

Can I use frozen cherries for cherry apple pie?

Yes! Frozen cherries work well in this recipe. Just ensure they are thawed and drained of excess liquid before adding them to your filling.

What type of apples are best for cherry apple pie?

Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp complement the sweetness of cherries perfectly, enhancing the overall flavor of your cherry apple pie.

How long does it take to bake a cherry apple pie?

Typically, you should bake your cherry apple pie for about 45-50 minutes at 425°F (220°C), or until the crust is golden brown and juices are bubbling.

Can I customize this cherry apple pie recipe?

Absolutely! You can add other fruits like blueberries or adjust spices such as nutmeg or ginger for added flavor depth.

Final Thoughts

This cherry apple pie is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfectly balancing tartness with sweetness, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize flavors and toppings according to your preferences—there’s no limit to how you can enjoy this delightful dessert!