Cherry Apple Pie

This Cherry Apple Pie is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining the tartness of cherries and the sweetness of apples in a flaky crust. Perfect for any occasion, this pie is sure to impress at family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even a cozy night at home. Its juicy filling and crispy edges make it a must-try recipe for pie lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This cherry apple pie comes together with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of tart cherries and sweet apples creates a delicious contrast that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm with ice cream, or enjoy it cold as a refreshing treat—this pie fits any occasion.
• Stunning Presentation: With its beautiful crust and vibrant filling, this pie looks as good as it tastes, making it a showstopper for gatherings.
• Homemade Goodness: There’s nothing quite like a homemade pie, and this recipe allows you to create something special from scratch.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cherry apple pie successfully, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment can streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pie dish
• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie dish: A good pie dish ensures even baking and gives your pie the perfect shape.
• Mixing bowl: It’s essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Rolling pin: This tool helps you achieve an even crust thickness for that perfect flaky texture.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 340 g all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 230 g unsalted butter (cold & cubed)
• 140 g ice cold water

For the Filling:

• 4 tart apples (about 700g after peeled, cored, and sliced)
• 300 g red cherries (pitted & halved)
• 50 g brown sugar
• 20 g cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For Topping:

• 1 egg (beaten)
• 2 tablespoons sugar crystals or coarse sugar

How to Make Cherry Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
2. Add the cold cubed butter into the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Slowly pour in the ice-cold water while mixing until the dough comes together.
4. Divide the dough into two balls, flatten them into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. While the dough chills, peel, core, and slice the apples.
2. In another bowl, mix together sliced apples, pitted cherries, brown sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out one disk of dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.
3. Place rolled-out dough in the pie dish and fill with cherry and apple mixture.
4. Roll out the second disk; you can create a lattice topping or simply cover with whole crust.
5. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle sugar crystals on top.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake in preheated oven for about 70 minutes or until golden brown.
2. Allow cooling before slicing to let juices set.

Enjoy your delicious homemade cherry apple pie!

How to Serve Cherry Apple Pie

Serving Cherry Apple Pie is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your dessert.

A La Mode

• Serve the pie warm topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture complements the fruity filling perfectly.

Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for added richness. This classic pairing enhances the flavors beautifully.

Caramel Drizzle

• Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice for an indulgent touch. The sweetness of the caramel pairs nicely with the tart cherries and apples.

Fresh Mint

• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a refreshing taste. This adds visual appeal and a hint of herbal flavor.

How to Perfect Cherry Apple Pie

Perfecting Cherry Apple Pie involves attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips to ensure your pie turns out delicious every time.

• Use cold ingredients: Keeping your butter and water cold helps create a flaky crust that is tender and crispy.

• Don’t overfill: Ensure you don’t overload the pie with filling; it can cause overflow during baking. Balance is key for perfect slices.

• Let it cool: Allow the pie to cool before slicing. This helps the juices set, making it easier to cut neat pieces.

• Experiment with spices: Adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger can enhance the flavor profile of your cherry apple pie, giving it a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Apple Pie

Pairing Cherry Apple Pie with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic pairing, this creamy addition balances the tartness of the pie.

2. Cheddar Cheese
   Serve thin slices of sharp cheddar alongside for a savory contrast that many enjoy.

3. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad provides freshness and cuts through the richness of the pie.

4. Coffee or Tea
   A warm cup of coffee or tea pairs well, enhancing the flavors and providing comfort.

5. Pecan Topping
   Crushed pecans sprinkled on top add crunch and nuttiness, elevating every bite.

6. Chocolate Sauce
   A drizzle of chocolate sauce gives an unexpected twist that chocolate lovers will adore.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Cherry Apple Pie can be delightful, but common mistakes can mar your experience. Here are some tips to help you avoid these pitfalls.

• Boldly skip the chilling process – Not chilling your pie dough can lead to a tough crust. Make sure to chill it for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
• Ignoring the fruit prep – Failing to properly prepare your apples and cherries can result in a watery filling. Always peel, core, and slice the apples and pit the cherries before mixing.
• Overfilling the pie – Adding too much filling might cause overflow during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best results.
• Neglecting the egg wash – Skipping this step means missing out on a beautifully golden crust. Brush your pie with a beaten egg for that perfect finish.
• Not adjusting baking time – Each oven is different; not checking on your pie could lead to undercooking or burning. Set a timer but keep an eye on it as it bakes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Cherry Apple Pie in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cherry Apple Pie

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Cherry Apple Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Cherry Apple Pie.

Can I use frozen fruit for my Cherry Apple Pie?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries and apples. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding them to your filling.

What types of apples are best for Cherry Apple Pie?

Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well as they balance nicely with sweet cherries.

How do I prevent my Cherry Apple Pie from being soggy?

To avoid sogginess, ensure you cook off excess moisture from the fruit before placing it in the pie crust. You may also sprinkle cornstarch on the bottom of the crust before filling.

Can I make Cherry Apple Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Apple Pie is an outstanding twist on traditional desserts, combining sweet cherries and tart apples into every bite. Its versatility allows you to customize fillings based on seasonal fruits or personal preferences. Give this delightful recipe a try; it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!