Description
This Homemade Cherry Pie Filling is a simple and delicious way to prepare fresh or frozen cherries into a thick, sweetened filling perfect for pies and other desserts. Made on the stovetop, this recipe blends cherries with sugar, cornstarch, and a hint of lemon juice to create a luscious filling that can be used immediately or stored for later use. Optionally enhanced with almond extract, it balances tartness and sweetness beautifully.
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Filling Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir in the lemon juice and water thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.
- Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook the cherry mixture, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until it begins to bubble and thickens. This should take about 5 to 10 minutes, forming a glaze-like consistency.
- Add Almond Extract: If desired, stir in the almond extract once the mixture is thickened. This adds a subtle nutty aroma that complements the cherry flavor.
- Cool the Filling: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the cherry pie filling to cool completely. This thickens the filling further and prepares it for use in pies, tarts, or other desserts.
Notes
- Use fresh cherries in season or frozen cherries when fresh are unavailable. Make sure frozen cherries are thawed and drained.
- Adjust sugar quantity based on the sweetness of your cherries and personal preference.
- The pie filling can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week.
- For a stronger cherry flavor, add a splash of cherry liqueur after cooking, if desired.
- If you prefer a smoother filling, pulse the cooked mixture briefly in a blender before cooling.
