Homemade Cherry Pie

Name: Homemade Cherry Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: for the pie crust base; ½ teaspoon kosher salt: enhances the crust flavor; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: adds subtle sweetness to the crust; 1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed): ensures a flaky crust; 7 tablespoons ice water: helps bind the dough while keeping it cold; 5 cups sweet cherries (pitted): main ingredient of the filling; ⅔ cup granulated sugar: sweetens the cherry filling; ¼ cup cornstarch: thickens the filling; 1 tablespoon lemon juice: adds brightness and balances sweetness; 1 teaspoon lemon zest: enhances flavor with citrus aroma; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: adds warmth and depth to the filling; 1 egg (for egg wash): gives the crust a glossy finish; 1 tablespoon milk or cream: mixed with the egg for the wash; 1 tablespoon brown sugar: optional, for sprinkling over crust

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Nothing beats the comforting aroma of a Homemade Cherry Pie baking in the oven — its golden, flaky crust bubbling with sweet and tart cherries is the essence of a nostalgic, fruit-filled dessert. Whether you’re making this for a summer picnic, holiday gathering, or simply to enjoy a slice of tradition, this homemade cherry pie is foolproof, packed with flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Using fresh or frozen cherries, it balances sweetness and acidity perfectly, making each bite a celebration of fruit, crust, and cozy indulgence.

Why This Homemade Cherry Pie is a Must-Try

This cherry pie recipe combines simplicity and flavor for a dessert that’s both classic and unforgettable. It’s made from scratch with a buttery, flaky crust and a luscious cherry filling that strikes the perfect balance between tart and sweet. The result? A showstopping pie that’s:

Perfect for summer cherry season
Great for beginner bakers
Ideal for holiday tables and weekend baking
Easily customizable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets
Loved by both kids and adults

Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this homemade cherry pie is a timeless dessert that delivers comfort in every bite.

Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Cherry Pie

Creating the perfect homemade cherry pie starts with selecting quality ingredients that offer great taste and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crust:

All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and flakiness
Cold Butter: Ensures a tender, flaky texture
Granulated Sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to the crust
Kosher Salt: Balances flavor and enhances the buttery notes
Ice Water: Keeps the dough cold to maintain its flaky structure

For the Cherry Filling:

Sweet Cherries: The star ingredient – sweet and juicy with a natural balance of tartness
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and helps thicken the filling
Lemon Juice: Brightens and enhances the flavor
Lemon Zest: Adds depth and a fragrant citrusy note
Cornstarch or Flour: Thickens the filling to the perfect consistency
Vanilla Extract: Infuses warmth and complexity into the cherries

Ingredient Swaps and Dietary Adjustments

Whether you’re adjusting for allergies or simply out of an ingredient, here are some easy swaps that keep your homemade cherry pie delicious:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pie crust and substitute flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour for thickening
Dairy-Free: Replace butter with vegan butter (not margarine) to preserve flavor and texture
Frozen Cherries: Thaw and drain thoroughly before using if fresh cherries are unavailable
Sour Cherries: Great for a tangier pie—just increase the sugar slightly
Cornstarch vs. Flour: Both work to thicken the filling, though cornstarch provides a glossier finish

How to Make Homemade Cherry Pie – Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pie Dough
In a food processor, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold, cubed butter and pulse until a crumbly texture forms. Slowly add ice water until the dough begins to come together. Form into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Make the Cherry Filling
In a medium bowl, mix pitted cherries with sugar, cornstarch (or flour), lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Stir until evenly coated.
Roll and Assemble
Roll out one dough disc and place it into a pie dish. Use a fork to prick the bottom. Pour in the cherry filling evenly. Roll the second dough disc and cut into ½-inch strips for a lattice top.
Create Lattice Crust
Lay 5 strips over the pie, then weave perpendicular strips to form a lattice. Trim excess and crimp edges. Brush the top with egg wash (1 egg mixed with 1 tbsp milk) and sprinkle with brown sugar.
Chill and Bake
Freeze the pie for 20 minutes while preheating the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake for 20 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (180°C) and bake an additional 30 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Cool and Serve
Let the pie cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before slicing to allow the filling to set. Serve as-is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Smart Tips for a Foolproof Homemade Cherry Pie

Keep everything cold: Cold butter and ice water are crucial for a flaky crust
Use fresh cherries: They deliver unbeatable flavor and texture
Freeze before baking: This prevents over-browning and helps set the crust
Bake low in the oven: Positioning in the lower third helps cook the bottom crust evenly
Don’t skip egg wash: Adds shine and helps your crust crisp and brown beautifully

Pairings, Serving Ideas & Tasty Variations

Serving your homemade cherry pie is half the fun! Here’s how to elevate this classic treat:

Serve With: Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or crème fraîche
Add Flavor: Toss in blueberries or raspberries with the cherries for a mixed berry twist
Add Texture: Replace lattice crust with a crumble topping for a cherry crisp variation
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble and freeze the unbaked pie for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to total bake time
Holiday Tip: Add a touch of almond extract for a festive spin

Celebrate Cherry Season with This Classic Pie

Fresh cherry season is short, making homemade cherry pie a true seasonal delicacy. It showcases the natural sweetness and tang of ripe cherries and brings nostalgic summer vibes to any table. Whether you’re celebrating the Fourth of July or hosting a backyard BBQ, this dessert is always a hit.

Make the most of cherry season by baking this pie when fresh cherries are at their peak — you’ll taste the difference in every bite.

Conclusion

There’s something deeply satisfying about baking a Homemade Cherry Pie from scratch — from rolling out the buttery crust to layering in the rich, ruby-red filling. This timeless dessert captures the best of seasonal fruit and classic technique in a pie that looks as good as it tastes. With its flaky crust, perfectly sweet-tart cherries, and beautiful lattice top, it’s no wonder this pie remains a beloved favorite across generations.

Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pie maker, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers consistent results every time. Be sure to serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that perfect finishing touch. Once you’ve tried this version, it’ll become your go-to cherry pie recipe for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Cherry Pie

How do I keep the bottom crust from getting soggy?

To prevent a soggy bottom crust, make sure to:
Use a metal or glass pie dish, which conducts heat better.
Chill the assembled pie before baking to help the crust firm up.
Bake the pie in the lower third of the oven.
Preheat your oven well so the crust starts cooking immediately.
These tips help the crust stay crisp while the filling bubbles to perfection.

Can I use canned cherries for this homemade cherry pie?

Yes, you can use canned cherries, but make sure they are unsweetened or packed in water, not syrup. Drain them thoroughly and adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly. Canned cherries may be softer than fresh or frozen, so the filling texture will differ slightly, but the pie will still be delicious.

Why did my cherry filling turn runny after baking?

This is usually due to:
Not using enough thickener (cornstarch or flour)
Not letting the pie cool completely before slicing
Excess moisture from under-drained frozen or canned cherries
To avoid this, always measure your thickener accurately and allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours. This helps the juices set properly.

More Relevant Recipes

Spooky Good Berry Pie Recipe: A fun, fruity dessert similar in style to cherry pie, this berry-packed creation features a medley of fresh or frozen berries wrapped in a flaky pie crust. It’s perfect for those who love fruit-forward pies with a twist and vibrant colors that pop.
Homemade Fresh Pumpkin Pie Recipe: This creamy pumpkin pie is a seasonal classic, just like cherry pie. It features a silky-smooth pumpkin filling in a golden crust, offering warm spices and cozy autumn flavors that dessert lovers will appreciate.
Praline Pumpkin Pie Recipe: A delicious upgrade to the traditional pumpkin pie, this version includes a rich praline layer that adds crunch and depth. Its homemade crust and luscious filling make it a close cousin to cherry pie in texture and homemade charm.

Homemade Cherry Pie – Easy Recipe Guide

Table of Contents