The Best Tart Cherry Pie You’ll Ever Eat

This irresistible tart cherry pie features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a sweet and tangy tart cherry filling, topped with a crunchy Dutch crumble. Perfect for holiday desserts, family gatherings, or any occasion, this pie combines frozen tart cherries, almond extract, and a touch of amaretto for added depth of flavor. Finished with a golden, crumbly topping made from oats, brown sugar, and butter, this pie is a must-try for cherry lovers. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. This easy-to-make recipe will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 recipe for butter pie crust (or store-bought crust or your favorite pie crust)

For the Filling:

• 6 cups frozen tart cherries (about 24 oz)
• 1 cup organic cane sugar (or granulated sugar)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon amaretto (optional)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• ¼ cup rolled oats
• 6 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pie Crust: Make your pie dough ahead of time and shape it in a pie pan. Store the pie crust covered in the fridge until ready to use. You can follow a homemade butter pie crust recipe, use your favorite recipe, or opt for a store-bought crust.
2. Make the Filling: In a large pot, combine frozen tart cherries, sugar, cornstarch, flour, and almond extract. Place the pot over medium heat. Stir frequently as the cherries thaw and break down, and the sugar melts. After about 5 minutes, add the butter and amaretto. Continue to stir and cook for another 5-10 minutes, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble. Once it starts sticking to the back of the spoon, remove from heat and set aside to cool.
3. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Prepare the Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and oats. Stir in the melted butter and mix until the mixture forms crumbles resembling wet sand. You may need to use your hands to create the crumbles. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 5 minutes until ready to use.
5. Assemble the Pie: Remove the pie crust from the fridge and place the pie pan on a large baking sheet to catch any potential spills as the pie bakes. Pour the cooled tart cherry filling into the crust, then top with the prepared Dutch crumble topping.
6. Bake the Pie: Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Check the pie after 30 minutes to ensure the crust isn’t burning. If it’s getting too dark, cover the edges with foil or a pie shield.
7. Cool the Pie: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into it. This step ensures the filling sets properly. It’s worth the wait! You can also make the pie ahead of time, as it keeps well for a few days.
8. Serve and Enjoy: This tart cherry pie is best served at room temperature or slightly warm. Top it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Tart and Sweet: The perfect balance of tart cherries and a sweet crumble topping makes every bite irresistible.
• Flaky, Buttery Crust: The buttery pie crust pairs wonderfully with the rich filling and crunchy topping.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for special occasions.

Tips

• Let the Pie Cool Completely: Allow the pie to cool fully before cutting to ensure the filling sets perfectly. If you cut it too soon, the filling may run.
• Check the Pie’s Progress: Keep an eye on the crust as it bakes. If it starts to get too dark, cover the edges with foil to prevent burning.
• Add a Touch of Spice: For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling.

Variations and Substitutions

• Amaretto Substitute: If you don’t have amaretto, you can replace it with vanilla extract or skip it entirely.
• Different Fruits: While this recipe uses tart cherries, you can easily swap them with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries for a different flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust and substitute the flour in the filling and topping with gluten-free flour.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tart cherries instead of frozen? Yes, you can use fresh cherries if they are in season. Just be sure to pit and slice them before using.

Can I make this pie ahead of time? Yes, this pie can be made a few days in advance. Store it in the fridge, and bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving.

How do I store leftovers? Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore some of the crispness.

Serving

This pie is perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or just a special treat. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to take it to the next level.

Suggestions

• Pair with a Drink: A warm cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine like late-harvest Riesling pairs beautifully with this tart cherry pie.
• Top with More Toppings: Add a sprinkle of crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.