Cherry Apple Pie

This Cherry Apple Pie is a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this pie stands out with its crispy and flaky crust paired with a juicy filling. With its unique twist on the classic apple pie, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This cherry apple pie recipe is straightforward, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of tart cherries and sweet apples creates a delicious balance that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion—from holidays to casual get-togethers—this pie is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Crispy Crust: Enjoy a flaky, buttery crust that complements the filling beautifully, adding texture to every bite.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or mix in other fruits according to your preference!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making this cherry apple pie, gather your essential tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pie dish
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie dish: A good quality pie dish ensures even baking for a perfectly cooked crust.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly, creating the perfect base for your pie.
• Mixing bowls: Helps keep your ingredients organized while preparing the filling.

Ingredients

For this delicious cherry apple pie, you will need the following 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 Garnish

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

How to Make Cherry Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by mixing the flour and salt in a large 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. Form it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In another bowl, combine sliced apples and cherries. Mix in brown sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out half of your chilled dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Place it in your pie dish and trim any excess hanging over the edges.

Step 4: Fill the Pie

Pour the cherry and apple filling into the prepared crust. Roll out the remaining dough for either lattice or solid top crust as desired. If using lattice, weave strips over each other; if solid, cut slits for steam to escape.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush the top crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar. Bake for about 70 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Allow cooling before serving.

Enjoy your homemade cherry apple pie!

How to Serve Cherry Apple Pie

Serving cherry apple pie can turn a simple dessert into a delightful experience. Whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your pie.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve slices of warm cherry apple pie topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination that enhances the flavors.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of rich caramel sauce adds a sweet, buttery flavor that complements the tartness of the cherries and apples.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream provides a fluffy contrast to the dense filling, making each bite even more enjoyable.

With a Side of Fresh Berries

• Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries add a pop of color and freshness that balances the sweetness of the pie.

Served in Individual Portions

• Cut the pie into smaller pieces and serve them in ramekins for an elegant presentation at dinner parties.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoying a slice of cherry apple pie with a cup of coffee or herbal tea creates a comforting afternoon treat.

How to Perfect Cherry Apple Pie

Making the perfect cherry apple pie requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are some essential pointers to ensure your pie comes out delicious every time.

• Chill Your Dough: Keeping your pie crust cold prevents it from becoming tough during baking. Refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, seasonal fruits will give your filling vibrant flavor and texture. Look for firm apples and ripe cherries for the best results.
• Balance Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar based on the tartness of your fruit. Taste your filling before baking and modify if necessary.
• Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: This ingredient helps thicken your filling, preventing it from being too runny. It ensures every slice holds together beautifully.
• Vent Your Pie: Creating slits in the top crust allows steam to escape, which helps prevent sogginess. This also gives your pie a beautiful rustic look.
• Bake Until Golden Brown: Keep an eye on your pie as it bakes. Aim for a golden-brown crust for optimal texture and flavor development.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Apple Pie

Pairing side dishes with cherry apple pie can enhance your meal or celebration. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture contrasts nicely with the warm fruit filling.
2. Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses adds savory notes that balance the sweetness.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light salad made with seasonal fruits provides a refreshing counterpoint.
4. Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts flavored with spices add crunch and complexity to each bite.
5. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate over slices can make this dessert even more indulgent.
6. Coffee Cake: A slice of coffee cake serves as a complementary sweet option alongside your pie.
7. Scones: Buttery scones offer another baked good that pairs well with dessert.
8. Creamy Custard: A rich custard adds an extra layer of creaminess that enhances each serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Cherry Apple Pie can be delightful, but several common mistakes can ruin your dessert. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring the crust temperature: Using warm butter or not chilling the dough can lead to a tough crust. Always use cold ingredients and chill your dough before rolling it out.
• Overfilling your pie: Adding too much filling can cause spills during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts of cherries and apples to ensure even cooking and prevent a messy oven.
• Not letting the pie cool: Cutting into a hot pie can make it mushy. Allow your Cherry Apple Pie to cool for at least an hour before slicing for clean pieces.
• Skipping the egg wash: Not applying an egg wash can result in a dull-looking crust. Brush your pie with a beaten egg for that golden, shiny finish.
• Using unripe fruit: Using underripe apples or cherries can lead to bland flavors. Choose ripe, tart fruit for the best taste balance in your pie.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Ideally, consume within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep refrigerated to maintain flavor and texture.

Freezing Cherry Apple Pie

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best enjoyed within 2–3 months for peak taste.

Reheating Cherry Apple Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover edges with foil and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Slice and place on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet on low heat. Cover with a lid and heat gently until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent my cherry apple pie from getting soggy?

To avoid a soggy bottom, pre-bake the crust slightly before adding the filling. This helps create a barrier against moisture.

Can I use frozen cherries for this cherry apple pie?

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

What is the best type of apples for cherry apple pie?

Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal as they complement the sweetness of cherries while holding their shape during baking.

Can I customize my cherry apple pie recipe?

Absolutely! You can add spices like nutmeg or ginger, swap brown sugar for white sugar, or include other fruits like blueberries for variety.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Apple Pie combines sweet cherries and tart apples, creating a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various fruits or spices based on your preferences. Try making this pie today and impress your family and friends!