There’s something utterly magical about the aroma of cherry crumb pie wafting through the kitchen. Imagine biting into a flaky crust, giving way to a tart cherry filling that sings with sweetness and a crumb topping that’s just the right amount of crunch. This dessert is not just a treat; it’s an experience that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.
Speaking of experiences, I remember the first time I attempted to bake this beauty. My kitchen looked like a flour bomb exploded, and let’s just say my dog was more interested in “cleaning up” than I was in baking! But every chaotic moment was worth it when I finally pulled that golden pie from the oven. It’s perfect for family gatherings, summer picnics, or simply when you need a slice of happiness on a Tuesday afternoon.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- With its easy-to-follow steps, this cherry crumb pie brings delightful flavors without much fuss
- The vibrant red cherries and buttery crumbs create an eye-catching dessert perfect for any occasion
- It’s versatile enough for summer barbecues or cozy winter nights by the fire
- Plus, who doesn’t love a dessert that can double as breakfast leftovers?
Ingredients for Cherry Crumb Pie
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Cherries: Use ripe, juicy cherries for the best flavor; they should feel firm and fragrant.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cherries; adjust based on your tartness preference.
Lemon Juice: A splash brightens up the filling and balances sweetness; fresh is always best.
Pie Crust: You can use store-bought or homemade; just make sure it’s rolled out evenly for even baking.
Butter: Adds richness to the crumb topping; make sure it’s cold and cubed before mixing.
Flour: All-purpose flour holds everything together in both crust and crumble topping.
Oats: Old-fashioned oats add texture to your crumb topping; they absorb moisture without losing crunch.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cherry Crumb Pie
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your pie crust into a pie pan and crimp those edges like an artist framing their masterpiece. If you’re using store-bought crust, give it a little love with a fork—poke some holes to let steam escape.
Step 2: Make the Cherry Filling
In a large bowl, combine fresh cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Gently toss them together until coated—a little cherry dance party! Allow this mixture to sit for about 10 minutes while you prepare your crumb topping.
Step 3: Create the Crumb Topping
In another bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, and cubed butter. Using your fingers (or a pastry cutter if you’re feeling fancy), blend everything until it resembles coarse crumbs—think beach sand but tastier.
Step 4: Assemble Your Pie
Pour that cherry mixture into your prepared crust evenly so every bite gets some fruity goodness. Then sprinkle your crumb topping generously over those cherries like you’re decorating a cake for royalty.
Step 5: Bake Away
Pop your assembled pie into the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling with sweet cherry goodness. Just keep an eye on it—no one likes burnt crumbs!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked to perfection, let your pie cool down for at least an hour. This helps all that delicious filling set up nicely! Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—or enjoy it solo if no one’s watching!
Now you have all the tools needed to create this delightful cherry crumb pie that will impress friends and family alike! So go ahead—bake away!
You Must Know
- This delightful Cherry Crumb Pie not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings a smile to your face
- The vibrant cherries and crumbly topping create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, perfect for any gathering or quiet night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the cherry filling while the crust chills. Once that’s done, roll out your dough and fit it into the pie dish. Next, layer on that luscious cherry filling before topping it with the crumb mixture. Bake until golden brown for the best results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cherries for mixed berries or even peaches if you’re feeling adventurous. You can add a splash of almond extract for an extra kick or sprinkle some cinnamon over the top for a cozy flavor twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Cherry Crumb Pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop slices in a microwave for about 20 seconds or warm them gently in an oven to retain that crispy crumb topping.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh cherries when possible for maximum flavor and sweetness
- Don’t skip chilling the dough; it helps achieve that perfect flaky texture
- Finally, let the pie cool completely before slicing; this ensures cleaner pieces and enhances presentation
Sometimes, I serve this pie at family gatherings and watch as everyone’s eyes light up with joy—it’s like they’ve just found their long-lost favorite dessert!
FAQs:
What is Cherry Crumb Pie?
Cherry Crumb Pie is a delightful dessert featuring a sweet and tangy cherry filling topped with a crumbly mixture of flour, butter, and sugar. This pie is baked until the cherries bubble and the topping turns golden brown. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or any time you crave a comforting dessert. The combination of tart cherries and a buttery crumble creates a wonderful contrast in flavors and textures that everyone enjoys.
How do I store leftover Cherry Crumb Pie?
To store leftover Cherry Crumb Pie, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing the pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat it gently in the oven for the best flavor and texture.
Can I use frozen cherries for Cherry Crumb Pie?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries for Cherry Crumb Pie! In fact, they can be just as delicious as fresh ones, especially when fresh cherries are out of season. Just remember to thaw the cherries first and drain any excess liquid before using them in your pie filling. This helps prevent a soggy crust while still achieving that delicious cherry flavor.
What variations can I make to my Cherry Crumb Pie?
You can personalize your Cherry Crumb Pie by adding different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance its flavor. Some people enjoy mixing in other fruits such as blueberries or raspberries for added complexity. Additionally, try using almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique twist! Experimenting with various crumb toppings, like oats or nuts, can also create exciting new textures and tastes.
Conclusion for Cherry Crumb Pie:
In conclusion, making Cherry Crumb Pie is a rewarding experience that yields a delicious dessert loved by many. This recipe is versatile enough to adapt with different fruits and spices based on your preferences. Whether you use fresh or frozen cherries, following these guidelines ensures that your pie will be bursting with flavor. Enjoy this sweet treat at family gatherings or as a comforting nightcap after dinner – it’s sure to please every palate!
Cherry Crumb Pie
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Description
Cherry Crumb Pie is a delightful dessert that showcases the vibrant flavor of fresh cherries, perfectly balanced by a crunchy crumb topping. Baked in a flaky crust, this pie is not only visually appealing but also bursting with sweet-tart goodness. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy evenings at home, it’s an indulgent treat that will surely evoke smiles and satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crust into a pie pan and crimp the edges.
- In a large bowl, combine fresh cherries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Let sit for about 10 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
- Pour the cherry mixture into the prepared crust and top with the crumb mixture.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
- Allow to cool for at least an hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
