Cherry Pie With Almond Extract

I've often found that cherry pie stands out in the world of desserts, but adding almond extract elevates it to a new level.

The interplay of sweet, tart cherries and a subtle nutty aroma creates a depth of flavor that's surprisingly delightful.

I'm curious how others have experimented with this combination; there seems to be so much potential in tweaking the recipe just a bit.

What are your thoughts on complementary ingredients that could further enhance this classic pie? The possibilities might just surprise us both.

Ingredients for Cherry Pie with Almond Extract

To whip up a delicious Cherry Pie with Almond Extract, you'll need a few essential ingredients.

For this old fashioned almond cherry pie, start with 2 pie crusts, either homemade or store-bought.

Next, grab 4½ cups of sweet cherries, pitted and halved.

You'll also need ¼ cup of granulated sugar to sweeten things up, and ⅓ cup of cornstarch to thicken the filling.

Don't forget ½ teaspoon of salt, 2 teaspoons of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon each of vanilla and almond extract to enhance those flavors.

Finally, an egg for the wash will give your pie a beautiful golden finish.

These ingredients make this easy almond cherry pie a delightful treat for any occasion!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating a delicious Cherry Pie with Almond Extract is a rewarding experience. I'll guide you through the steps to guarantee your pie turns out perfectly!

1. Prepare Cherries: Mix your pitted and halved cherries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl. Let it sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
2. Roll Crusts: Roll out your pie crusts, placing one in a pie pan. Pour the cherry mixture into the crust.
3. Add Topping: For the lattice top, roll out your second crust, cut it into strips, and weave a lovely pattern on top. Trim and crimp the edges to seal.

Now, you're ready to bake! Just brush with egg wash and sprinkle some coarse sugar on top for that extra touch.

Baking Tips and Tricks

While baking a Cherry Pie with Almond Extract might seem straightforward, a few tips and tricks can elevate your dessert to the next level.

Choose the Right Cherries:

• Use fresh, sweet cherries for the best flavor.
• Frozen ones can work too, but drain excess juice.

Perfect the Crust:

• Ascertain your butter is cold for a flaky crust.
• Don't overwork the dough.

Layering Flavors:

• Combine almond extract with vanilla for a unique twist.

Bake It Right:

• Start at 400°F to set the crust, then lower to 375°F to cook the filling evenly.

Cool Before Serving:

• Patience is key!
• Let the pie cool for at least an hour to set the filling properly.

These simple tips will help you create a cherry pie everyone will love!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you've mastered the art of baking a Cherry Pie with Almond Extract, it's time to think about how to serve this delightful dessert.

Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your pie experience:

1. Serve with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or almond ice cream on top adds a creamy touch that nicely contrasts the tart cherries.
2. Pair with Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream dolloped on the pie brings an airy element that complements the richness.
3. Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce: For a twist, drizzle warm chocolate sauce over each slice, giving your pie an indulgent flair.

These simple additions will surely impress your guests and make your Cherry Pie shine even brighter!

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your Cherry Pie with Almond Extract fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential. Here's how to do it:

Storage Tips:

1. Cool Completely: Let your pie cool to room temperature before storing.
2. Cover: Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to cover the pie. You can also use an airtight container.
3. Fridge or Counter: Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Reheating Tips:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent over-browning.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

Enjoy your delicious pie, even after a few days!

Conclusion

To sum up, baking a cherry pie with almond extract is a delicious adventure that combines sweet and nutty flavors in every bite.

Your friends and family will love this delightful dessert, especially when it's warm with ice cream or whipped cream.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't hesitate to try again if it doesn't turn out exactly as you hoped.

Enjoy the process, and most importantly, savor every slice of your homemade treat! Happy baking!