This Cherry Apple Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of cherries with the sweetness of apples, all enveloped in a crispy and flaky pie crust. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just a cozy night at home, this pie showcases the best of both fruits. The juicy filling and buttery crust make it a standout dish that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create a delicious pie without stress.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of cherries and apples offers a unique taste that elevates the traditional apple pie.
- Versatile Dessert: Whether served warm with ice cream or chilled, this pie is suitable for any occasion.
- Impressive Presentation: Its vibrant colors and beautiful crust design make it a showstopper at any gathering.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting your cherry apple pie journey, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Pie dish
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spilling.
- Rolling pin: This tool helps in rolling out the dough evenly for a perfect pie crust.
Ingredients
For the Pie 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
Begin by combining the flour and salt in a mixing bowl. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough comes together. Divide it into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In another bowl, toss together the sliced apples, halved cherries, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until evenly coated. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough into an 8-inch circle. Transfer it to your pie dish gently. Pour in the cherry apple filling evenly.
Step 4: Top It Off
Roll out the second disc of dough. You can cut it into strips to create a lattice top or simply place it over the filling whole. Seal edges by crimping them together. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar for extra crunch.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled pie on a baking sheet and bake for about 70 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade Cherry Apple Pie!
How to Serve Cherry Apple Pie
Cherry apple pie is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it warm or cold enhances its flavors, making it a versatile treat for any occasion.
Classic with Ice Cream
- Serve a slice of warm cherry apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess complements the tartness of the filling beautifully.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Add a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream on top. This adds a light and airy texture that balances the pie’s richness.
Drizzle of Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of caramel sauce over the pie elevates its sweetness. This indulgent touch is perfect for those who love a sweeter dessert.
Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Top your serving with fresh cherries or apple slices for added freshness. The fruit garnish not only looks appealing but also enhances the flavor profile.
Pair with Coffee or Tea
- Serve your cherry apple pie alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage pairs nicely with the comforting flavors of the pie.
How to Perfect Cherry Apple Pie
Perfecting your cherry apple pie can take it from good to spectacular. Here are some tips to ensure your pie shines.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cherries and apples make all the difference in flavor. Choose ripe, seasonal fruits for the best taste.
- Chill Your Dough: Keep your pie crust chilled before baking. This helps make it flaky and crispy upon cooking.
- Balance Sweetness: Adjust the sugar based on your fruit’s tartness. Taste your filling before baking and modify as needed.
- Egg Wash for Shine: Brush the crust with beaten egg before baking. This gives it a beautiful golden color and extra shine.
- Let It Cool: Allow your pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps set the filling and prevents it from becoming mushy.
Best Side Dishes for Cherry Apple Pie
Pairing side dishes with cherry apple pie can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheeses complements the sweetness of the pie, creating a delightful contrast.
- Salad Greens: A light salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pie, providing a refreshing palate cleanser.
- Spiced Nuts: Offer spiced nuts as a crunchy side that contrasts nicely with the soft filling of the pie.
- Chocolate Fondue: For an extra indulgence, serve chocolate fondue on the side for dipping fruit or pieces of pie.
- Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote can add another layer of flavor while keeping it seasonally appropriate.
- Pecan Crumble Bars: These bars echo similar flavors found in cherry apple pie while providing different textures and tastes to enjoy together.
- Vanilla Custard: A smooth vanilla custard adds creaminess that pairs well with both apples and cherries, enhancing each bite.
- Biscotti Cookies: These crunchy cookies offer an excellent textural contrast and are perfect for dipping in coffee beside your slice of pie.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a cherry apple pie can be simple, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your pie turns out perfect.
- crust preparation: Failing to chill the butter and water can lead to a tough crust. Always use cold ingredients for a flaky texture.
- filling balance: Overloading the filling with cherries or apples can cause overflow during baking. Measure your ingredients carefully for a well-balanced pie.
- oven temperature: Baking at too low of a temperature can result in sogginess. Preheat your oven properly to maintain ideal baking conditions.
- cutting techniques: Not slicing the fruit evenly can affect cooking time. Aim for uniform slices for even cooking and consistent flavor.
- egg wash omission: Skipping the egg wash means missing out on that golden finish. Brush your crust with an egg wash before baking for color and shine.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cherry apple pie in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Cherry Apple Pie
- Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Cherry Apple Pie
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat slices on high for about 30 seconds, checking for warmth.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making cherry apple pie.
How do I make my cherry apple pie filling thicker?
To thicken your filling, consider adding more cornstarch or letting it cook longer before adding it to the crust.
Can I use frozen cherries for my Cherry Apple Pie?
Yes, frozen cherries work well! Just make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using them in the filling.
What is the best way to prevent a soggy bottom crust?
To avoid a soggy bottom, pre-bake the crust slightly before adding the filling or sprinkle some cornstarch on the bottom before pouring in the fruit mixture.
How long does it take to bake a Cherry Apple Pie?
Typically, it takes about 60-70 minutes at 375°F (190°C), but keep an eye on it as ovens vary.
Final Thoughts
This cherry apple pie brings together sweet cherries and tart apples, making it a delightful dessert option that’s perfect for any occasion. The recipe is versatile—feel free to adjust spices or add nuts—and it’s sure to satisfy anyone’s sweet cravings. Don’t hesitate; try making this comforting dessert today!
Cherry Apple Pie
Indulge in the comforting delight of Cherry Apple Pie, a perfect blend of tart cherries and sweet apples, all encased in a flaky, buttery crust. This dessert is ideal for any occasion—family gatherings, holidays, or a cozy night in. The juicy filling harmonizes beautifully with the crisp crust, making it a standout treat that everyone will adore. With straightforward steps and fresh ingredients, even novice bakers can create this mouthwatering pie with ease. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or chilled for a refreshing twist. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful homemade dessert!
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 340g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 230g unsalted butter (cold & cubed)
- 140g ice cold water
- 4 tart apples (about 700g after peeled, cored, and sliced)
- 300g red cherries (pitted & halved)
- 50g brown sugar
- 20g cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 beaten egg (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons sugar crystals or coarse sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the pie crust by mixing flour and salt in a bowl. Blend in cold butter until crumbly, then add ice water to form dough. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
- For the filling, toss sliced apples, cherries, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and vanilla in a bowl until coated.
- Roll out one dough disc into an 8-inch circle and fit it into your pie dish. Pour in the fruit filling.
- Roll out the second dough disc; create a lattice top or cover entirely. Seal edges and brush with egg wash.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 70 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Use fresh seasonal fruits for the best flavor. Chill the dough before baking for a flakier crust. Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of your fruits.
