Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 batch gluten free pie crust
Filling
- 5 cups pitted and halved fresh cherries (about 2 pounds)
- 1/3 cup white sugar
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 5 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional but recommended)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter
Topping
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons sanding sugar (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
- Prep Pie Crust: Roll out and prepare the gluten free pie crust. Place the bottom crust layer into a 9-inch pie dish and set aside.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s hot enough for the initial baking phase.
- Combine Cherry Filling: In a saucepan, combine the pitted and halved cherries, white sugar, brown sugar, and lemon juice.
- Simmer the Filling: Heat the mixture over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until the cherries release some of their juices. Be careful not to cook more than 5 minutes to keep the cherries intact.
- Separate Cherries and Sauce: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cherries to a bowl, leaving the cooking liquid (sauce) behind in the saucepan.
- Thicken the Sauce: Whisk cornstarch into the remaining sauce in the pan until it thickens, then stir in vanilla extract, almond extract, salt, and butter until combined and smooth.
- Combine Filling Components: Pour the thickened sauce over the cherries in the bowl and toss gently to coat all the fruit evenly.
- Assemble Pie: Pour the cherry filling into the prepared pie crust in the pie dish. Add the top crust or create a lattice top by cutting strips about 1 inch wide and weaving them over and under one another carefully.
- Apply Egg Wash and Sugar: Beat the egg lightly and brush it over the crust to give a glossy finish. Sprinkle sanding sugar over the top for added sparkle and sweetness.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie on a large baking sheet to catch drips. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F and continue baking for another 35 to 40 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly. Tent with foil if the crust browns too quickly.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the pie to cool for 2 to 3 hours so the filling sets properly. Serve with vanilla ice cream if desired and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh cherries for the best flavor and texture; frozen cherries tend to be too watery.
- The almond extract is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor complementary to cherries.
- Letting the pie cool thoroughly is crucial for a stable filling that isn’t runny.
- If you want a crispier bottom crust, consider baking the bottom crust for 8-10 minutes alone before adding the filling.
- Gluten free pie crusts can be delicate; handle gently during rolling and assembling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free