why make this recipe
Valentine’s Day Cherry Pies are a perfect treat for celebrating love. They are sweet, tart, and served warm, making them a delightful dessert for a romantic dinner or cozy evening. This recipe allows you to show your culinary skills while enjoying a delicious pie that can be made with fresh or canned cherries. The beautiful color and heartwarming flavor make it an ideal dessert for this special occasion.
how to make Valentine’s Day Cherry Pies
Ingredients:
- Pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- Fresh or canned cherries (or your favorite cherry pie filling)
- Granulated sugar
- Cornstarch
- Lemon juice
- Salt
- Butter
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your pie crust in a pie dish.
- In a bowl, mix cherries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until the filling is well combined.
- Pour the cherry mixture into the prepared crust and dot the top with small pieces of butter.
- Optionally, cover with a top crust or create a lattice pattern. Seal the edges and vent the top if using a full crust.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let cool before serving to allow the filling to set.
how to serve Valentine’s Day Cherry Pies
Serve the cherry pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. You can also garnish it with fresh cherries or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an extra special touch. It’s a lovely treat that pairs perfectly with a warm drink.
how to store Valentine’s Day Cherry Pies
To store leftover cherry pie, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer.
tips to make Valentine’s Day Cherry Pies
- Use fresh cherries if they are in season for the best flavor. If using canned cherries, choose a brand that has no added sugar to control the sweetness.
- Adjust the amount of sugar depending on how sweet or tart your cherries are.
- Make sure to vent your top crust if you are using one; this will help the steam escape and prevent sogginess.
- For a festive touch, use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes from the top crust.
variation
You can try adding almond extract for extra flavor, or mix in some chopped nuts for a delightful crunch. Experimenting with different pie crusts, such as a graham cracker or oatmeal-based crust, can also add a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cherries for this pie?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mixing them with the other filling ingredients.
2. How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the crust is golden brown, and you can see the cherry filling bubbling through the vents.
3. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the pie ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through before serving.