Cherry Pie Filling is the kind of treat that sends your taste buds on a joyride. Imagine plump, juicy cherries bursting with sweetness, enveloped in a thick, syrupy goodness that dances on your tongue. Whether it's slathered over pancakes or nestled between flaky pastry crusts, this delightful concoction has the power to turn any ordinary day into a grand celebration. For more inspiration, check out this Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars recipe.

I still remember the first time I attempted to make Cherry Pie Filling. I was knee-deep in flour and sugar, channeling my inner pastry chef while my cat watched with skepticism. The aroma wafting through the kitchen was so intoxicating that even my curious neighbor knocked on the door to see if I was baking something magical. Trust me; this recipe will bring you as much joy and nostalgia as it did for me. For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Baked Apples recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This Cherry Pie Filling is a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for last-minute desserts.
- Bursting with sweet-tart cherry flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
- Its vibrant red color adds a stunning visual appeal to your dishes, impressing family and friends alike.
- Plus, you can use it in various ways—on top of ice cream, in yogurt, or straight out of the jar!
Ingredients for Cherry Pie Filling
Here's what you'll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cherries: Use ripe, sweet cherries for the best flavor. You can choose between Bing or Rainier cherries based on your preference.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar will balance the tartness of the cherries wonderfully; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
- Cornstarch: This thickening agent gives the filling its luscious texture while ensuring it doesn’t turn soupy.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice enhances the flavors and provides a zesty contrast to the sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of vanilla extract adds depth and warmth to your filling.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cherry Pie Filling
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Cherries
Start by washing about four cups of fresh cherries thoroughly. Remove the stems and pits—yes, it’s tedious but worth every second when you savor that sweet filling.
Step 2: Mix Sugar and Cornstarch
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine three-quarters cup of granulated sugar with two tablespoons of cornstarch. Stir them together until they form a uniform mixture—this will help thicken that glorious cherry goodness.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large saucepan over medium heat, add your prepared cherries along with the sugar-cornstarch mix. Pour in two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir gently while bringing everything to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Cook Until Thickened
Continue cooking while stirring occasionally for about five to seven minutes until the mixture becomes thick and bubbly—your kitchen will smell like cherry heaven!
Step 5: Cool Down
Remove from heat and let your Cherry Pie Filling cool down slightly before using it or transferring it into jars for later use.
Serving suggestion: Pour over warm biscuits or use as a decadent topping for cheesecake—you won’t regret it!
You Must Know
- This delightful cherry pie filling is not just a sweet treat; it’s a versatile companion for pancakes, yogurt, or even straight from the jar.
- Its vibrant color and rich flavor will jazz up any dessert table and wow your guests.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the perfect cherry pie filling, start by simmering the cherries with sugar and lemon juice until they release their juices. Then, combine cornstarch with a little water and stir it in to thicken. Finally, let it bubble away until you reach that luscious consistency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your cherry pie filling! Swap fresh cherries for frozen ones, add a splash of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor, or mix in some spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for that warm, comforting touch.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cherry pie filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat or pop it in the microwave for quick enjoyment while stirring occasionally.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For that perfect cherry pie filling, always taste before serving to adjust sweetness.
- If using frozen cherries, thaw them completely to avoid excess moisture.
- When thickening with cornstarch, ensure it's fully dissolved to prevent lumps.
Sometimes I catch my friends sneaking spoonfuls of this cherry pie filling when they think I’m not watching. delicious bomboloni donuts It’s become a running joke at our get-togethers—who can resist such deliciousness?
FAQs :
What is Cherry Pie Filling made of?
Cherry pie filling typically consists of fresh or canned cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. The cherries provide the primary flavor and sweetness, while the sugar enhances their natural taste. Cornstarch acts as a thickener, ensuring the filling has a nice consistency when baked. savory sweet corn spoonbread Lemon juice adds a hint of acidity that balances the sweetness. You can also customize your cherry pie filling by adding spices like cinnamon or almond extract for additional depth.
How do I make Cherry Pie Filling from scratch?
To make cherry pie filling from scratch, begin by pitting fresh cherries and placing them in a saucepan. Add sugar and lemon juice to taste. Cook over medium heat until the mixture starts to bubble. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then stir it into the cherry mixture. Continue cooking until it thickens. Finally, let it cool before using it in your favorite pie recipe.
Can I use frozen cherries for Cherry Pie Filling?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries for making cherry pie filling. In fact, frozen cherries are often just as good as fresh ones since they are harvested at peak ripeness and quickly frozen. When using frozen cherries, allow them to thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking them down with sugar and cornstarch. This process ensures that your cherry pie filling remains thick and flavorful.
How long does Cherry Pie Filling last?
Cherry pie filling can last in the refrigerator for about 5 to 7 days when stored in an airtight container. If you want to extend its shelf life further, consider freezing it. Properly stored in the freezer, cherry pie filling can last up to 6 months without losing flavor or quality. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before using it in your baking recipes.
Conclusion for Cherry Pie Filling :
In summary, cherry pie filling is a delightful blend of sweet cherries combined with sugar and thickened to perfection with cornstarch. Making it from scratch allows you to control the flavors and sweetness levels entirely. Whether you choose fresh or frozen cherries, this versatile filling can elevate any dessert. delicious dulce de leche fondue Remember to store leftovers properly for future use or freeze them for long-lasting enjoyment. With these tips and insights into cherry pie filling, you’re now ready to create delicious desserts that everyone will love!

Cherry Pie Filling
Cherry Pie Filling is a delightful, sweet-tart concoction that elevates any dessert to a festive celebration. Imagine juicy cherries bursting with flavor, enveloped in a silky sauce that's perfect for drizzling over pancakes, ice cream, or nestled within a pie crust. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal effort, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. Create your homemade cherry pie filling and indulge in the rich taste that will surely impress family and friends.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh cherries (pitted)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Wash and pit the fresh cherries, placing them in a large saucepan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cornstarch; mix until well combined.
- Add the sugar-cornstarch mixture to the cherries along with lemon juice and vanilla extract.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring gently until the mixture reaches a simmer.
- Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes until thickened and bubbly.
- Allow to cool before using or storing in jars.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ cup (60g)
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: - For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding almond extract or spices like cinnamon. - If using frozen cherries, ensure they are fully thawed and drained to maintain the desired consistency.





