There’s an enchanting moment when the sweet scent of cherries fills your kitchen, transporting you to warm summer days spent picking ripe fruit. That’s exactly how I felt when I first whipped up this Cherry Crumb Pie, which has quickly become a staple in my home. On days when life feels chaotic, this pie is my comforting escape, transforming simple ingredients into a slice of happiness that brings joy to any gathering.
Imagine the satisfying crunch of that buttery crumb topping contrasted with the luscious, juicy cherries bursting with flavor. It’s a dessert that not only elevates the everyday dinner table but also impresses guests without requiring a culinary degree. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make; in just over an hour, you can craft a stunning pie that looks as good as it tastes. So, whether you’re vying for dessert bragging rights at the next potluck or seeking a sweet treat for yourself, let me guide you through this delightful Cherry Crumb Pie recipe that promises to wow taste buds and lift spirits alike!
Why is Cherry Crumb Pie so special?
Delightful fusion of sweet and tart flavors: The juicy cherries paired with almond and vanilla extracts create a mesmerizing taste that layers nostalgia with freshness.
Easy preparation: This recipe employs simple techniques, ensuring success even for novice bakers.
Crowd pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or a cozy night in—everyone loves a slice!
Comforting dessert: The buttery crumb topping adds a delightful crunch, making each bite utterly satisfying.
Versatile: Use fresh or frozen cherries depending on the season, making this pie a year-round favorite.
Let this cherry-filled delight bring warmth and joy to your home; it’s a pie that beckons to be shared!
Cherry Crumb Pie Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
- 9-inch pie crust – A flaky base that cradles the luscious cherry filling perfectly.
For the Cherry Filling
- Pitted cherries – Fresh or frozen, these jewels bring sweetness and vibrant color to the pie.
- Vanilla extract – A splash enhances the cherry flavor, elevating the overall taste.
- Almond extract – Offers a fragrant nuttiness, complementing the cherries beautifully.
- White granulated sugar – Balances the tartness of the cherries, ensuring a harmonious sweetness.
- Corn starch – Acts as a thickening agent, helping to set the filling and prevent sogginess.
For the Crumb Topping
- All-purpose flour – The base for the crumble, giving it structure and texture.
- White granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the crumb, balancing the topping’s buttery richness.
- Light brown sugar – Provides a hint of caramel flavor that deepens the topping’s taste.
- Unsalted butter – This creates a rich, crumbly texture when combined with flour and sugars.
- Pinch of salt – A little salt offsets the sweetness and enhances all flavors, making the pie irresistible.
How to Make Cherry Crumb Pie
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Preheat the oven to 425°F. This is the first step to ensure your pie bakes evenly and gets that wonderful golden brown crust.
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Combine the cherry filling ingredients in a mixing bowl, stirring well. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes; this allows those beautiful cherries to release their juicy goodness!
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Mix the crumble topping by combining ⅔ cup flour, ¼ cup white sugar, and ⅓ cup brown sugar. Then, add 4 tablespoons of butter and use your hands to pinch the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs, about the texture of sand.
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Transfer the cherry mixture into the chilled pie crust using a slotted spoon. This keeps excess liquid in the bowl, ensuring a perfectly set filling. Then, sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the cherries.
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Bake the pie in the oven at 425°F for about 20 minutes. After that, lower the temperature to 375°F and continue baking for another 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cherries are bubbly and the top is a delightful golden brown!
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Cool the pie for at least 20-30 minutes after removing it from the oven. This waiting period allows the filling to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cherry Crumb Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with these delightful twists!
- Berry Medley: Swap out cherries for a mix of raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries for a vibrant, fruity pie.
- Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the crumb topping for extra texture and flavor.
- Spice It Up: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cherry filling for a warm, cozy essence.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in both the crust and crumble for a deliciously inclusive dessert option.
- Sugar-Free Option: Substitute sugar with your favorite sugar alternative to make a healthier version.
- Coconut Twist: Add ½ cup of shredded coconut to the crumble topping for a tropical flair that pairs beautifully with cherries.
- Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled pie for a decadent finish.
- Tart Cherry Lift: Mix in 1 cup of tart cherries along with the sweet ones to add a tangy contrast that keeps things interesting.
Expert Tips for Cherry Crumb Pie
Choose the right cherries: Use ripe, sweet cherries for the best flavor. If using frozen, ensure they’re fully thawed and drained to prevent excess liquid.
Avoid soggy crust: Pre-baking your pie crust for a few minutes before adding the filling can help maintain crispiness.
Adjust sweetness: Taste your cherry mixture before baking and add more sugar if needed, as sweetness varies between cherry types.
Perfect crumb texture: Don’t overmix the crumble topping—aim for pea-sized crumbs for that perfect crunch on your Cherry Crumb Pie.
Cool time is crucial: Allow the pie to cool completely before cutting to ensure the filling sets properly, preventing it from oozing out!
What to Serve with Cherry Crumb Pie?
When the aroma of baked cherries wafts through your home, it’s time to think beyond just dessert!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla complements the tart cherries perfectly, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds an elegant touch and enhances the pie’s fruity essence.
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Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee balance the sweetness of the pie, making for a cozy and satisfying after-dinner pairing.
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Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of mint doesn’t just brighten the plate; it also refreshes your palate between bites of the rich pie.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: For those who love an extra indulgence, a light spread of cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cherry filling.
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Almond Biscotti: These crunchy treats echo the almond extract used in the pie and provide a delightful texture contrast, perfect for a cozy afternoon snack with tea.
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Lemon Sorbet: The zesty notes of lemon sorbet offer a refreshing palate cleanser, contrasting nicely with the sweetness of the cherries.
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Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea adds a calming touch, making it an ideal companion to your slice of cherry crumb pie.
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Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A simple drizzle of chocolate sauce can elevate this classic dessert, adding a decadent layer to the sweet-tart flavor profile.
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Crumb Pie
Fridge: Store leftover Cherry Crumb Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep the pie fresh while preserving its delicious flavors.
Freezer: You can freeze the pie for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes for that freshly baked taste.
Slice and Share: If you’ve made a big batch or want to save pieces for later, slice the pie before freezing. It makes it easier to grab a slice of that delicious Cherry Crumb Pie whenever the craving hits!
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Crumb Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cherry filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the pitted cherries, vanilla and almond extracts, and sugar in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The crumb topping can also be prepped in advance; simply combine the dry ingredients and butter, then store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, assemble the pie by transferring the cherry filling into a chilled crust, topping with the crumble, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a freshly baked, delicious dessert with minimal effort on the day of serving!
Cherry Crumb Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe cherries for my Cherry Crumb Pie?
Absolutely! Choose cherries that are plump, firm, and vibrantly colored, avoiding any with dark spots or wrinkles. If you can, try to taste a few; a sweet, juicy cherry is ideal for the perfect filling.
What is the best way to store leftover Cherry Crumb Pie?
For best results, store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the filling fresh and the crust enjoyable. Just make sure it cools completely before covering it up.
Can I freeze my Cherry Crumb Pie?
Yes, you can! Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes for that freshly-baked goodness.
What if my pie is too runny after baking?
If you find the filling is runny, it might be due to excess liquid from the cherries. To prevent this next time, ensure your cherries are well-drained if using frozen ones, or add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch to help thicken the mixture.
Is this Cherry Crumb Pie suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! If you need an allergy-friendly version, simply omit the almond extract and stick with just vanilla. The pie will still be deliciously sweet and satisfying.
How do I achieve the perfect crumb topping texture?
To get that ideal texture, mix the dry ingredients and then use your fingers to pinch in the butter until you reach a sandy consistency with pea-sized crumbs. This ensures a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the juicy filling!
Irresistible Cherry Crumb Pie That Will Warm Your Heart
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Combine the cherry filling ingredients in a mixing bowl and let sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Mix the crumble topping ingredients until crumbly.
- Transfer the cherry mixture into the pie crust and sprinkle the crumb topping over it.
- Bake at 425°F for 20 minutes, then lower the temperature to 375°F and continue baking for 35-40 minutes.
- Cool the pie for at least 20-30 minutes before serving.
