Are you ready to bake up a storm with a cherry pie filling that's bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to make? Forget those store-bought versions – this homemade cherry pie lucky leaf filling recipe will transport you straight to pie heaven. It's the perfect blend of sweet and tart, with a touch of magic thanks to the lucky leaf shape we'll create. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Let's get started on this delicious journey into homemade cooking!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries (if using frozen, do not thaw)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a large saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir well to ensure the cornstarch is fully incorporated. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, delicious filling.
Cook the filling:
-
Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. This prevents sticking and burning. Continue to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the filling has thickened considerably. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
-
Stir in the butter (if using) during the last minute of cooking. This adds richness and a lovely shine to the filling.
Create the lucky leaf shape:
- Once the filling is cooked, let it cool slightly. To create the "lucky leaf" effect, you can use a piping bag or a spoon to carefully shape dollops of the filling onto your pie crust before covering with the top crust. Alternatively, you can simply spoon the filling into the pie crust and bake as usual, enjoying the delicious filling without the leaf design.
Bake the pie:
-
Pour the cooled filling into your prepared pie crust (homemade or store-bought). Top with your favorite pie crust, crimping the edges to seal. Cut a few vents in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
-
Bake according to your pie crust instructions – usually around 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil.
Cool and serve:
- Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set properly.
Tips for the Best Cherry Pie Filling:
- Fresh vs. Frozen: Both fresh and frozen cherries work well in this recipe. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand – just add them directly to the saucepan.
- Adjust Sweetness: The amount of sugar can be adjusted based on your preference and the sweetness of your cherries. Start with less sugar and add more to taste if needed.
- Thickening: If the filling isn't thickening enough, you can add a little more cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water. Stir it in gradually until you achieve the desired consistency.
- Spice it up: Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as allspice or cardamom, to add a unique twist to your cherry pie filling.
Variations:
- Add Almond Extract: A teaspoon of almond extract adds a delightful nutty flavor.
- Chocolate Cherry Pie: Add 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the filling for a decadent twist.
- Cherry Crumble Topping: For a delightful crunchy topping, use a crumble mixture made from oats, flour, brown sugar, and butter.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 (depending on crust and serving size)
This recipe provides a delicious and relatively healthy dessert option with fruits and some fiber from the cherries and crust. However, keep in mind the sugar content.
Enjoy your homemade cherry pie! This easy recipes is perfect for sharing with friends and family, making it a heartwarming addition to any occasion. From simple weeknight dinners to holiday gatherings, this lucky leaf cherry pie is sure to become a family favorite. It’s a testament to the joy of homemade cooking and the magic of delicious dishes.