Are you craving the sweet, tart burst of cherry pie but watching your sugar intake? This sugar-free cherry pie filling recipe is the perfect solution! It’s surprisingly easy to make, bursting with fresh cherry flavor, and completely guilt-free. Perfect for pies, cobblers, crisps, or even just spooned over yogurt, this recipe is a delicious addition to your healthy meal repertoire. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this simple, yet satisfying, recipe.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries (if using frozen, thaw and drain well)
- 1/2 cup sugar substitute (erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit are all good options – adjust to your preferred sweetness)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
If using fresh cherries, pit them carefully. If using frozen cherries, thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid. This step is crucial for achieving the right consistency in your pie filling.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar substitute, water, lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
Step 3: Simmer the Filling
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once it begins to simmer, reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the filling has thickened to your desired consistency. The cornstarch will help thicken the mixture beautifully, creating a perfect texture for your pie.
Step 4: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cherry filling cool completely before using. This allows the filling to thicken further and prevents a soggy bottom in your pie. You can now use this delicious filling to create your favorite pie, cobbler, or crisp.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Sugar-Free Cherry Pie Filling:
- Adjust Sweetness: The amount of sugar substitute is adjustable based on your preference and the sweetness of your cherries. Taste as you go and add more if needed.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooking can result in a mushy filling. Keep a close eye on it and remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches the desired thickness.
- Fresh vs. Frozen: Both fresh and frozen cherries work well. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid from the frozen cherries before using them.
- Thickening Agent: If you prefer a thicker filling, you can slightly increase the amount of cornstarch.
Variations:
- Spiced Cherry Filling: Add a pinch of allspice or cloves for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of orange zest for a bright, citrusy note.
- Almond Cherry Filling: Stir in 1/4 cup of almond extract for a delightful almond flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific sugar substitute used.
- Calories: Approximately 50-70 calories
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Sugar: Very low (depending on sugar substitute)
This sugar-free cherry pie filling recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dessert without the guilt. It’s a healthy alternative that’s perfect for those watching their sugar intake but still want to indulge in delicious homemade treats. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!