Description
This homemade cherry pie filling recipe is a simple and delicious way to create a classic dessert component using fresh or frozen cherries. Perfectly sweetened and thickened with cornstarch, it offers a luscious cherry filling ideal for pies, tarts, or other desserts.
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Filling
- 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, mixing everything well to ensure the cornstarch dissolves evenly.
- Cook Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until it begins to bubble and thickens, approximately 5 to 10 minutes.
- Add Flavoring: If desired, stir in the almond extract to enhance the cherry flavor and blend well.
- Cool Filling: Remove the thickened cherry filling from heat and allow it to cool completely before using it in pies, tarts, or other desserts.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh cherries when in season or high-quality frozen cherries.
- The almond extract is optional but adds a lovely complementary flavor to the cherry filling.
- Make sure to stir constantly while cooking to avoid lumps and prevent burning.
- This filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.
