The BEST Cherry Pie Recipe: Flaky, Juicy, and Baked with Love
Hey there, pie lovers! Chef Jamie here, and today we’re diving into something timeless, beautiful, and downright irresistible: Cherry Pie. Not just any cherry pie, though. We’re talking about the BEST cherry pie recipe—with a buttery, flaky crust, a sweet-tart cherry filling that practically sparkles, and that perfect golden finish that makes your whole kitchen smell like summer.
Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a backyard BBQ, or just because you need a slice of happiness, this cherry pie delivers every time. It’s got the nostalgic vibes of grandma’s kitchen, but with a few pro tricks that take it to the next level. Ready to roll some dough and make pie magic? Let’s go!
🍒 Why This Cherry Pie Is the Best Ever
- Flaky Homemade Crust: No soggy bottoms here! We use chilled butter, a touch of vinegar, and a gentle hand.
- Vibrant Cherry Flavor: Sweet, tart, juicy, and never goopy.
- Easy to Customize: Works with fresh, frozen, or canned cherries.
- Impressively Beautiful: Lattice crust, golden edges, ruby-red filling? Hello, showstopper.
🧡 My Cherry Pie Love Story
When I was a kid, we had a sour cherry tree in our backyard. Every July, my siblings and I would climb up with buckets and purple-stained fingers, picking cherries by the handful. My mom would make pie after pie, and we always fought over the corner pieces—the ones where crust met caramelized cherry edges. That combo of flaky and jammy stuck with me.
Now as a grown-up chef, I’ve baked cherry pies from coast to coast. I’ve tweaked fillings, experimented with crusts, tried lattice vs. full tops, and this recipe? This one’s the keeper.
📝 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Homemade Pie Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 6–8 tbsp ice water
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (helps tenderize!)
For the Cherry Filling:
- 5 cups cherries (fresh or frozen, pitted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp almond extract (trust me)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp butter (to dot on top before baking)
For Finishing:
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp milk
- Coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional, but beautiful)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crust
In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until pea-sized crumbs form. Add vinegar and ice water, 1 tbsp at a time, until the dough just comes together. Split into two disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Make the Cherry Filling
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cherries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, salt, and almond extract. Stir frequently and cook 10–12 minutes, until it thickens and becomes glossy. Let cool to room temp.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out one dough disk to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Gently press it into the pan and trim excess edges.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Pour in the cooled cherry filling. Dot the top with butter. Roll out the second crust and cut into strips for a lattice top, or lay the whole sheet over the top and cut steam vents.
Step 5: Finish and Bake
Whisk the egg and milk together for the egg wash. Brush over the crust and sprinkle with coarse sugar. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake another 30–40 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let pie cool at least 2 hours before slicing (if you can wait!). Serve as-is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
💡 Tips for Pie Perfection
- Keep the Butter Cold: Cold fat = flaky crust. Always.
- Use a Glass or Metal Pie Plate: Avoid soggy bottoms.
- Shield the Crust Edges: Use a foil ring or pie shield halfway through baking to prevent burning.
- Chill Before Baking: A quick 10-minute chill before baking helps the crust hold its shape.
🍒 Cherry Pie Remix: 5 Fun Variations to Try
Cherry pie is already iconic, but just wait until you give it a creative twist! Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to switch things up from the classic, these fun variations take cherry pie from nostalgic to next-level. Each one is unique, delicious, and guaranteed to keep those forks diving in for more.
🥧 1. Crumble-Topped Cherry Pie (Dutch-Style)
Why You’ll Love It: This version swaps the top crust for a buttery cinnamon-oat crumble that’s crunchy, cozy, and crave-worthy.
How to Make It: Instead of a traditional top crust, mix ½ cup oats, ½ cup brown sugar, ½ cup flour, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 6 tbsp cold butter. Sprinkle over the cherry filling and bake as usual. The result? Sweet, golden streusel on top and juicy cherries underneath.
🍫 2. Chocolate Cherry Dream Pie
Why You’ll Love It: Chocolate and cherry are a match made in dessert heaven. This version adds a rich, decadent layer of flavor that makes each bite feel like a treat from a fancy bakery.
How to Make It: Fold in ½ cup mini chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks into the cherry filling before baking. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled pie for a dramatic finish.
🥃 3. Boozy Black Forest Cherry Pie
Why You’ll Love It: Inspired by the classic Black Forest cake, this pie adds a splash of spirit to deepen the cherry flavor.
How to Make It: Add 2–3 tablespoons of kirsch (cherry brandy), amaretto, or bourbon to the cherry filling as it simmers. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for a full Black Forest vibe.
🥥 4. Tropical Cherry-Coconut Pie
Why You’ll Love It: Give your cherry pie a sunny, beachy twist by pairing cherries with sweet coconut.
How to Make It: Stir ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut into the cherry filling. For bonus flair, top your crust with toasted coconut flakes after baking, or add a scoop of coconut ice cream on the side.
🧁 5. Mini Cherry Hand Pies
Why You’ll Love It: These adorable handheld pies are perfect for picnics, parties, or anytime snacking.
How to Make It: Roll out pie dough and cut into circles or rectangles. Spoon a bit of cherry filling onto one half, fold over, seal the edges with a fork, and bake until golden. Glaze with a simple icing drizzle made from powdered sugar and milk for a cute, portable treat.
🍒 Serving Suggestions for the BEST Cherry Pie
Let’s be real—cherry pie is already a showstopper all on its own. But when you pair it with the right finishing touches or accompaniments? You turn a delicious dessert into a memorable moment. Whether you’re keeping it classic or dressing it up for a special occasion, here are some fun, tasty, and easy ways to serve your cherry pie that’ll have everyone going back for seconds.
🍦 1. The Classic Combo: Vanilla Ice Cream
Why it works: The warm, tart-sweet cherries paired with cold, creamy vanilla ice cream? Perfection. This combo brings out the best in both components and makes every bite dreamy.
Pro tip: Choose a rich vanilla bean or even French vanilla for extra depth. Want to elevate it even more? Try a scoop of cherry vanilla swirl or white chocolate raspberry ice cream for a gourmet twist.
☁️ 2. Light & Fluffy: Whipped Cream Magic
Why it works: Homemade whipped cream is like a fluffy cloud of joy on top of your cherry pie. It balances the pie’s richness without overwhelming it.
Make it fun: Add a splash of almond extract or a pinch of cinnamon to your whipped cream for flavor depth. Or whip in mascarpone cheese for a lightly tangy, ultra-creamy topping.
🍷 3. Perfect Pairings: What to Sip With It
Coffee or Tea: Brew a pot of strong coffee or serve with a mug of earl grey or jasmine green tea for a comforting contrast. It’s the kind of pairing that begs for long conversations and second slices.
For a special toast: Cherry pie goes surprisingly well with:
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Sparkling rosé
-
Late harvest Riesling
-
Amaretto on the rocks
Bonus: Pour a little of that liqueur over your pie for extra indulgence.
🌿 4. Garnish with Style
Turn your pie slice into a plated dessert worthy of a bakery window with just a few simple garnishes:
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Dust with powdered sugar for a delicate finish
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Add a mint sprig for a pop of color
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Serve on a bed of vanilla custard sauce or cherry compote for restaurant vibes
It’s a small touch that makes a big difference when hosting guests.
🍽️ 5. Serve It Warm, Room Temp, or Cold
Warm: Great for cozy nights and fresh-from-the-oven vibes. Always pair with something chilled like ice cream.
Room temp: Perfect texture and flavor balance. Ideal for parties and potlucks.
Chilled: Great for summer—serve with whipped cream or fruit garnish for a refreshing twist.
❤️ Final Thoughts
Cherry pie isn’t just a dessert—it’s a memory, a comfort, and a slice of pure joy. This recipe combines all the things I love most about baking: rich flavor, hands-on fun, and a sweet reward that brings people together. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this cherry pie is a must-make. So roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and bake a little happiness.
Because at the end of the day, a great pie doesn’t just fill your belly—it fills your heart.
