Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Resting Time: 20 minutes
Total Time Including Cooling: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
Wash and pit the cherries if using fresh fruit. If using frozen cherries, thaw them slightly and drain any excess liquid. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Thickener
In a medium bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, water, and salt until smooth and free of lumps.
Step 3: Cook the Filling
Place the cherries into a medium saucepan over medium heat. Pour the sugar mixture over the cherries and stir continuously.
Step 4: Simmer
Allow the mixture to simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently. As it heats, the cherries will release their juices and the sauce will become thick and glossy.
Step 5: Add Flavor
Stir in the lemon juice, vanilla extract, almond extract if using, and butter. Continue cooking for another 2–3 minutes until everything is well combined.
Step 6: Cool
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the filling to cool for about 20 minutes before using. The filling will continue to thicken as it cools.
Step 7: Use or Store
Use immediately in your favorite pie recipe or transfer the cooled filling to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to five days or freeze for up to three months.
Tips for Success
- Fresh cherries provide the best flavor during cherry season.
- Frozen cherries work beautifully and make this recipe available year-round.
- Stir constantly while cooking to prevent scorching.
- Add a little more water if the filling becomes too thick.
- Add extra cornstarch mixed with water if a thicker consistency is desired.
- A small amount of almond extract enhances the natural cherry flavor.
- Always allow the filling to cool before adding it to pie crusts.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry Pie Filling is delicious in many desserts, including:
- Classic cherry pie
- Cheesecake topping
- Ice cream topping
- Yogurt parfaits
- Pancakes and waffles
- French toast
- Danish pastries
- Thumbprint cookies
- Cake filling
- Crepes
Storage
Store leftover cherry pie filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 165
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 34g
- Vitamin C: 8mg
- Calcium: 15mg
- Iron: 0.4mg
- Potassium: 180mg