Name: Baked Fresh Cherry Pie Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 cups fresh sweet cherries (pitted); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (cut into small pieces); 1 double pie crust (homemade or store-bought); 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash); 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for topping)

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If you’re looking for the ultimate summer dessert, look no further than this Baked Fresh Cherry Pie. Every bite is a celebration of juicy, ripe cherries thickened to perfection inside a golden, flaky crust. Whether you’re gathering friends for a backyard get-together or just want a nostalgic weekend treat, this pie captures the pure, sweet essence of cherry season. It’s incredibly satisfying to make from scratch and even more rewarding to share—gather around the table and enjoy the kind of pie that draws everyone back for seconds.

Baked Fresh Cherry Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of a classic Baked Fresh Cherry Pie is that each ingredient truly earns its place—no fillers, no shortcuts. Every piece, from the cherries themselves to the hint of almond, works together to create a pie that’s bursting with color, aroma, and homemade comfort.

Fresh sweet cherries (5 cups, pitted): The star of the show! Freshly pitted cherries provide a naturally juicy sweetness you just can’t get from canned or frozen.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Just the right amount to enhance the cherries and balance any tart notes.
Cornstarch (1/4 cup): This is the secret to a luscious, sliceable filling that holds together perfectly.
Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Adds brightness and subtly boosts the fruit flavors for an irresistible pie.
Almond extract (1/2 teaspoon): Just a dash—enough to add amazing depth that complements the cherries without overpowering them.
Ground cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon): A gentle background warmth that boosts the pie’s cozy, home-baked aroma.
Salt (1/8 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and elevates all the flavors in the filling.
Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon, cut in small pieces): Adds richness and helps create a silky, glossy filling.
Double pie crust (homemade or store-bought): Flaky, golden, and crucial for that satisfying contrast with the juicy filling.
Egg (1, beaten for egg wash): Brushing the crust gives it an alluring golden sheen.
Coarse sugar (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds a sparkly, sweet crunch on top—pure pie magic.

How to Make Baked Fresh Cherry Pie

Step 1: Prep the Cherry Filling

Start by combining your pitted cherries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, almond extract, ground cinnamon, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Gently stir everything together until the cherries are beautifully coated and glossy. Let this mixture sit for a few minutes—this not only gives the cherries time to release some of their natural juices, but also lets the cornstarch start working its thickening magic.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

Roll out your bottom pie crust and carefully fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Gently press the crust into the corners and up the sides, trying not to stretch it. A good crust makes every bite of this Baked Fresh Cherry Pie truly memorable, so take your time and aim for those lovely, even edges.

Step 3: Fill and Dot with Butter

Spoon the cherry filling into the pie crust, taking care to arrange the fruit evenly so each bite is bursting with cherries. Dot the top of the filling with small pieces of unsalted butter. This little touch ensures the filling bakes up rich and glossy, with just the right texture.

Step 4: Top the Pie

Roll out the top crust and place it gently over the filling, or cut it into strips for a traditional lattice design. Not only does a lattice look beautiful, but it also lets steam escape and offers inviting glimpses of the bubbling cherry goodness underneath. Trim any excess dough, and crimp the edges together to seal in all that juicy filling.

Step 5: Add Egg Wash and Sugar

Brush the top crust with your beaten egg to create that perfect golden finish as the pie bakes. If you’re feeling a little fancy, sprinkle coarse sugar over the top for extra sparkle and crunch—this small step adds a real bakery-style touch to your Baked Fresh Cherry Pie.

Step 6: Bake

Place your pie on a baking sheet (trust me, it’ll catch any drips!) and bake at 400°F for 45 to 50 minutes. You’re aiming for a deeply golden crust and a filling that’s vigorously bubbling. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, loosely cover them with foil halfway through baking so the whole pie bakes up evenly.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Resist the urge to dive straight in—let your freshly baked pie cool for at least two hours. This patience pays off by letting the filling set, ensuring clean, beautiful slices when you finally dig in.

How to Serve Baked Fresh Cherry Pie

Garnishes

There’s nothing quite like a slice of Baked Fresh Cherry Pie adorned with a billow of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting gently on top. For a little extra color and flair, try a shower of shaved chocolate, a fresh cherry or two on the side, or a sprig of mint to finish.

Side Dishes

If you’re serving pie at a gathering, pair slices with classic accompaniments like fresh lemonade, coffee, or a fruity dessert wine. For something lighter, offer a bowl of mixed berries or a citrusy salad to balance the pie’s lush sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress guests by cutting the pie into dainty wedges and stacking slices on a rustic wooden board, or serve mini pie rounds baked in muffin tins for a playful twist. A drizzle of cherry or berry coulis on each dessert plate elevates the look and lets you channel your inner pastry chef.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover leftover Baked Fresh Cherry Pie with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making for an even more irresistible treat! Pie stays fresh for up to four days chilled.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap cooled pie slices tightly and freeze for up to three months. When the craving for homemade pie strikes, just thaw individual slices in the fridge overnight before gently reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm slices in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes until just heated through—this keeps the crust crisp and the filling luscious. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the crust soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries for this pie?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries if fresh aren’t available. Let them thaw and drain well, then proceed with the recipe—just know the filling may be a bit juicier, so consider adding an extra tablespoon of cornstarch.

What’s the best way to pit cherries quickly?

A cherry pitter is the quickest tool for the job, but if you don’t have one, try pushing a straw or chopstick through the center to pop out the pits. It’s a bit messy, but totally worth the effort for that fresh cherry flavor!

Can I make the pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the pie a day in advance and keep it covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator. This often helps the filling set, making for cleaner slices the next day.

Do I have to use almond extract?

While almond extract adds wonderful depth, you can leave it out or swap it for vanilla extract if you prefer a more straightforward cherry flavor. Both options are delicious in a Baked Fresh Cherry Pie.

Can I use a store-bought crust?

Definitely! Store-bought crust works beautifully if you’re short on time. Just focus on a great filling—no one will mind, and everyone will enjoy your Baked Fresh Cherry Pie all the same.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend trying this Baked Fresh Cherry Pie enough—it’s the kind of nostalgic, crowd-pleasing dessert that transforms even an average day into a small celebration. Gather up those fresh cherries and treat yourself and your loved ones to a recipe that’s easy, vibrant, and made to share. Here’s to luscious, homemade slices and happy memories around your table!

Baked Fresh Cherry Pie Recipe

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4.8 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of summer with this Baked Fresh Cherry Pie. A classic dessert made with juicy sweet cherries and a flaky crust that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling:

5 cups fresh sweet cherries (pitted)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)

Crust:

1 double pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix the pitted cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, almond extract, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
Assemble the Pie: Roll out the bottom crust and place in a pie plate. Fill with cherry mixture, dot with butter, add the top crust, and seal the edges.
Finish and Bake: Brush the top crust with egg wash, sprinkle with sugar, and bake for 45–50 minutes until golden. Cool before serving.