Cherry pie filling is a sweet and tangy delight that brings the taste of summer into your kitchen. It’s perfect for making pies, cobblers, and other desserts. Whether you use fresh or frozen cherries, this recipe ensures a deliciously rich filling that can be enjoyed all year long.
Why Make This Recipe
Making your own cherry pie filling is not only easy, but it also allows you to control the ingredients. By using fresh or frozen cherries, you can create a filling that is free from preservatives and artificial flavors. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of making something from scratch. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves cherries, desserts, or simply wants a homemade touch to their treats.
How to Make Delicious Cherry Pie Filling
Ingredients:
- 4 pint jars
- 4 cups fresh or frozen sour cherries (pitted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Red food coloring (optional)
Directions:
- Prepare the Jars: Start by sterilizing your jars in boiling water and then placing them in a warm oven set to 215°F. Keep them warm while you make the filling, for at least 15 minutes.
- Cook the Mixture: In a medium saucepan, add the pitted cherries, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium-low heat. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens.
- Add Flavor: Once the mixture is thick, remove it from the heat. Stir in the almond extract, lemon juice, and butter. If you want a bright red color, add red food coloring until you reach your desired shade.
- Fill the Jars: Carefully fill the warm jars with the hot pie filling, ensuring you only fill them to the bottom rung of the jar’s mouth. Avoid overfilling to prevent any spills or explosions!
- Seal and Process: Screw the lids on tightly. Process the jars in a hot water bath for 20 minutes. After the time is up, remove them from the water and let them cool completely.
How to Serve Delicious Cherry Pie Filling
Cherry pie filling can be served in a variety of ways. Use it as an easy filling for classic cherry pies or as a topping on cheesecakes and pancakes. It can also be layered in trifles or spooned over vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
How to Store Delicious Cherry Pie Filling
Store your cherry pie filling in a cool, dark place if processed correctly. Unsealed jars can be kept in the refrigerator and used within a week or two. For longer storage, ensure jars are sealed tightly and can last for a year in the pantry.
Tips to Make Delicious Cherry Pie Filling
- Choice of Cherries: Sour cherries are ideal for this recipe as they provide a nice tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the sugar.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar based on your personal taste and the sweetness of the cherries.
- Thickening: If the filling is too thin, you can add a bit more cornstarch dissolved in water while cooking.
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe by adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. If you prefer a different fruit combination, mix in blueberries or raspberries for added flavor and color.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, frozen cherries work just as well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using.
2. How long does homemade cherry pie filling last?
If processed properly, it can last up to a year in your pantry, and about a week in the refrigerator once opened.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Sure! Just ensure that you have enough jars prepared and allow enough time for processing. It’s a great way to use up more cherries if you have them!
Cherry Pie Filling
Ingredients
For the filling
- 4 cups fresh or frozen sour cherries (pitted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar Adjust based on sweetness preference
- 1/4 cup cornstarch Use for thickening
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Add for richness
- Red food coloring (optional) For color enhancement
For Jars
- 4 pint jars pint jars Sterilize and keep warm
Instructions
Preparation
- Sterilize your jars in boiling water and then place them in a warm oven set to 215°F for at least 15 minutes.
Cooking
- In a medium saucepan, add the pitted cherries, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens.
- Once thick, remove from heat. Stir in almond extract, lemon juice, and butter. Add red food coloring if desired.
Filling Jars
- Carefully fill the warm jars with the hot pie filling, leaving space to prevent spills.
- Screw the lids on tightly and process in a hot water bath for 20 minutes.
- Remove jars from the water and let them cool completely.
