Cherry Crumb Pie

Made with fresh or frozen cherries, a sweet creamy custard, and a buttery crumble, this Cherry Crumb Pie recipe comes together easily to create the best Cherry Pie! Perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or a cozy weekend dessert, this pie showcases the delightful flavors of cherries in every bite. Its unique combination of textures—from the tender filling to the crumbly topping—makes it a standout treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this pie without any hassle.
• Delicious Flavor: The balance of sweet cherries and creamy custard creates an irresistible taste that will have you coming back for more.
• Versatile Options: Whether you use fresh or frozen cherries, this recipe adapts to what’s available, making it perfect year-round.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it at parties, picnics, or as a comforting dessert at home; it fits any event beautifully.
• Make Ahead Friendly: This pie tastes even better after chilling in the fridge overnight, allowing you to prepare it in advance.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Cherry Crumb Pie, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch pie pan or tart pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Forks or pastry cutter
• Rolling pin (if making dough from scratch)
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie Pan: A sturdy pie pan ensures even baking and supports the structure of your pie.
• Mixing Bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to keep ingredients organized and separate during preparation.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for achieving a smooth custard mixture without lumps.
• Rolling Pin: If you’re making your own dough, a rolling pin helps create an even crust.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 (9-10 inch) frozen pie crust (or pie dough)
• 1 large egg (optional)
• 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash, omit if not using)

For the Filling

• 4 cups sweet cherries (pitted and sliced in half)
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Crumble Topping

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (cold and cubed)

How to Make Cherry Crumb Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Roll the pie dough into a 12-inch circle.
2. Place it into a 9-inch pie pan or tart pan.
3. Crimp edges or cut off excess pie crust to fit.
4. Place the pie crust into the freezer for at least 1 hour before assembling. Skip this step if using a frozen pie shell.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine ¾ cup sugar, 1 cup sour cream, 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, and ¼ teaspoon salt until well mixed.
2. Set aside while preparing other components.

Step 3: Prepare the Crumble Topping

1. In another bowl, mix together ¼ cup all-purpose flour, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter until crumbly. Use your fingers or two forks for mixing.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃) if using fresh cherries or 375℉ (190℃) for frozen cherries.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

1. Remove the chilled pie crust from the freezer.
2. If using an egg wash, whisk together 1 egg with 1 tablespoon of water.
3. Brush this mixture over the bottom and sides of the pie crust.
4. Spread the halved cherries evenly over the crust.
5. Pour the sour cream filling over the cherries evenly.
6. Tap gently on the counter to distribute the custard evenly.
7. Top with crumble mixture.

Step 6: Bake Your Pie

1. Place the assembled cherry pie onto a baking sheet.
2. Bake for 45–50 minutes if using FRESH cherries or 55–65 minutes if using FROZEN cherries.
3. The center should be set and no longer jiggle.

Step 7: Cool and Refrigerate

• Allow your Cherry Crumb Pie to cool to room temperature after baking.
• Once cooled, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for better slicing results after about 12–24 hours.

Enjoy every slice of this delicious Cherry Crumb Pie, whether it’s warm from the oven or chilled from refrigeration!

How to Serve Cherry Crumb Pie

Cherry Crumb Pie is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it classic or add a twist, here are some serving suggestions.

À la Mode

• Serve warm slices of Cherry Crumb Pie topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture of the ice cream complements the tartness of the cherries perfectly.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with freshly whipped cream for an airy addition that balances the richness of the custard filling.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of chocolate sauce over your pie slice adds a decadent touch. This combination enhances the flavors and makes it even more indulgent.

Accompanied by Fresh Berries

• Serve alongside a handful of fresh berries to add brightness and freshness to each bite. Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries work wonderfully here.

How to Perfect Cherry Crumb Pie

To ensure your Cherry Crumb Pie turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Cherries: Whenever possible, opt for fresh cherries as they offer superior flavor and texture compared to frozen ones.
• Chill Your Dough: If making your own crust, chilling the dough helps prevent shrinkage during baking and creates a flakier crust.
• Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: Brushing the crust with an egg wash gives it a beautiful golden-brown color and adds a nice sheen.
• Let It Cool: Allowing the pie to cool completely before slicing helps set the filling and makes for cleaner cuts.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Crumb Pie

Cherry Crumb Pie pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some suggestions that will elevate your dessert experience.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds smoothness and richness.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing option that brightens up the meal.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers a savory contrast to the sweet pie.
4. Coffee: A robust cup of coffee balances out the sweetness perfectly.
5. Chocolate Mousse: Rich and creamy, this dessert complements the pie’s flavors.
6. Custard Sauce: Pouring warm custard sauce over each slice enhances its custardy goodness.
7. Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a healthy side option that contrasts nicely with the pie’s sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Cherry Crumb Pie can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the chilling step – Not chilling the pie crust can lead to a soggy bottom. Always freeze your crust for at least an hour before baking.
• Overmixing the filling – Overmixing the custard can create air bubbles. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
• Ignoring cherry preparation – Using unpitted or poorly sliced cherries can ruin the pie’s quality. Always ensure your cherries are well-prepared and evenly sliced.
• Not checking doneness – Relying solely on time can lead to undercooked or overcooked pies. Always check that the center is set and no longer jiggles.
• Skipping refrigeration after baking – Serving immediately may result in a messy slice. Allow your pie to cool and refrigerate it for optimal slicing.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Cherry Crumb Pie

• Wrap the pie tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• The pie can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Cherry Crumb Pie

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cherry Crumb Pie?

Cherry Crumb Pie is a delightful dessert made with fresh or frozen cherries, creamy custard, and a buttery crumble topping. It’s perfect for any occasion!

Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen cherries in this Cherry Crumb Pie recipe. Just adjust the baking temperature and time as needed.

How do I know when my Cherry Crumb Pie is done?

The pie is done when the center is set and no longer jiggles. A golden-brown crumble topping is also a good sign!

Can I customize my Cherry Crumb Pie?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Crumb Pie is not only delicious but also versatile. Its combination of flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings or fillings to make it your own!