Best Easy Oregon Red Tart Cherry Pie Recipe
Oregon Red Tart Cherries are known for their vibrant color and tart flavor, making them the perfect ingredient for a delicious cherry pie. With their natural sweetness and tanginess, these cherries create a delightful balance of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Here is a simple and easy recipe for the best Oregon Red Tart Cherry Pie.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups Oregon Red Tart Cherries (pitted)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 pre-made pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon butter (cut into small pieces)
– 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
– 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pitted Oregon Red Tart Cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, almond extract, and lemon juice. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Roll out one of the pie crusts and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Press the crust against the edges of the dish, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
4. Pour the cherry filling into the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
5. Dot the top of the cherry filling with small pieces of butter.
6. Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the cherry filling. Trim the excess crust from the edges and crimp them together to seal the pie.
7. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle sugar over it for a golden and crispy finish.
8. Make a few slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
9. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drippings and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
10. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 2 hours before serving. This will allow the filling to set.
11. Slice and serve the Oregon Red Tart Cherry Pie on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Questions and Answers:
1. Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen Oregon Red Tart Cherries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using in the recipe.
2. Can I use a different type of cherry for this pie?
While the recipe is specifically designed for Oregon Red Tart Cherries, you can experiment with other varieties. However, the flavor and texture may vary.
3. Can I make my own pie crust?
Absolutely! You can use your favorite homemade pie crust recipe or follow a store-bought option for convenience.
4. Can I use a lattice crust instead of a full top crust?
Yes, you can create a lattice crust by weaving strips of pie dough over the cherry filling. It adds a decorative touch to the pie.
5. How long should I cool the pie before serving?
It is recommended to cool the pie for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set and prevent it from being too runny.
6. Can I make the pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the pie a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
7. Can I freeze the pie?
Yes, you can freeze the baked pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
8. How long does the pie stay fresh?
The pie will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
9. Can I substitute almond extract with vanilla extract?
Yes, if you prefer the flavor of vanilla, you can replace the almond extract with an equal amount of vanilla extract.
Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors with this easy Oregon Red Tart Cherry Pie recipe. It’s a perfect dessert to showcase the deliciousness of these cherries.