Pie-making can feel daunting, but when you opt for a one crust cherry pie with canned filling, the process becomes a breeze! This delightful dessert brings the perfect balance of tangy cherries and a flaky crust—all with minimal effort. Whether new to baking or looking for a quick solution to satisfy your sweet tooth, this guide will walk you through everything you need.
This article covers all the essential tips and tricks, from selecting the best-canned cherry filling to achieving the perfect pie crust. You’ll find a simple, foolproof recipe and plenty of ideas to customize your one crust cherry pie with canned filling to match your taste.
Introduction to One Crust Cherry Pie with Canned Filling
Why Choose a One Crust Cherry Pie?
If you’ve been putting off baking a pie because of the time and effort involved, a one crust cherry pie with canned filling is your new best friend! The one crust method saves you time and creates a perfect, simple dessert that anyone can whip up—even if you’re not a seasoned baker. You avoid the often time-consuming process of making your own cherry filling from scratch by using canned cherry filling. This choice allows you to skip the pitting and cooking, saving you precious time.
The one crust approach also ensures the pie has a beautifully crisp and flaky bottom, making it easy and delicious. Plus, when you use canned filling, you don’t need to worry about overcooking or undercooking the fruit filling, as it’s pre-cooked and ready to go. This pie is a great option for those busy days when you need something quick but still want to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings for a homemade dessert.
Benefits of Using Canned Cherry Filling
Canned cherry filling is a huge time-saver and a convenient option for anyone who loves cherry pie but doesn’t want to fuss over making the filling from scratch. It offers consistent flavour, sweetness, and texture that is hard to achieve with fresh fruit, especially when cherries are out of season. Plus, it lets you focus on perfecting the crust and the baking process. To enhance the flavour, the canned filling is also easily customizable by a few extra ingredients, like lemon juice or vanilla extract.
By the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident in making your own one crust cherry pie with canned filling, and you’ll enjoy the process every time you bake!
Essential Ingredients for One Crust Cherry Pie with Canned Filling
Overview of Key Ingredients
You only need a few basic ingredients to make a mouth-watering one crust cherry pie with canned filling. The show’s star is, of course, the canned cherry filling. It’s convenient, delicious, and available year-round, making it the perfect choice for a quick cherry pie. However, you’ll need a few more ingredients to create a pie that stands out in both flavour and texture.
Choosing the Right Canned Cherry Filling
While any canned cherry filling will work, some brands offer a richer, more flavorful experience. When selecting your canned cherry filling, look for one that uses high-quality cherries, with a smooth, thick syrup that holds the fruit in place. If you prefer a more tart flavour, some brands offer fillings with less sugar or even sour cherry options.
Here’s a tip: Don’t be afraid to adjust the flavour of your canned filling to suit your taste. Add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavour or a teaspoon of almond extract for a subtle nutty tRemembermember that you’re using canned filling for convenience, so a little extra flavour boost goes a long way without requiring much effort.
The Importance of a Good Pie Crust
Of course, no cherry pie is complete without a good crust. When making a one crust cherry pie with canned filling, the crust is crucial—it should be flaky, golden, and sturdy enough to hold the filling without becoming soggy. You can use a store-bought crust to save time, but if you prefer to make it yourself, use cold butter or lard for that perfect texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making One Crust Cherry Pie with Canned Filling
Preparing the Pie Crust
First, you’ll need a good, reliable pie crust for your one crust cherry pie with canned filling. If you’re using a store-bought st, remove it from the package and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help avoid cracking when you roll it out. On the other hand, if you’re making your crust, start by mixing your flour and fat (cold butter or lard). Add cold water until the dough comes together, but don’t overwork it.
Once your dough is ready, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to fit your pie pan. Carefully transfer the dough into the pan and press it into the corners. Don’t worry about perfection—this pie is about simplicity, and a slightly rustic look adds charm!
How to Prepare and Use Canned Cherry Filling
Now that your pie crust is ready, let’s move on to the canned cherry filling. Open the can and give the filling a quick stir to ensure the cherries are evenly distributed in the syrup. You can enhance the flavour by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken the syrup and prevent the pie from being too runny.
Once you’re happy with the consistency, carefully pour the filling into your pie crust, spreading it evenly. Ensure not to overfill, as the pie can spill over while baking. If you have extra filling, you can use it for a smaller pie or simply enjoy it as a topping for other desserts!
Assembling and Baking the Pie
Once your filling is in place, it’s time to bake! There’s no need to add a second crust, so this one crust cherry pie with canned filling is wonderfully easy. Bake the pie at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. You can also add a light egg wash on top of the crust for a shiny finish. If you notice that the edges of the crust are browning too quickly, simply cover them with foil or a pie shield.
Once baked, allow the pie to cool before serving. This gives the filling time to set, so when you slice into it, the cherries stay in place, and you get that perfect slice!
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One Crust Cherry Pie with Canned Filling
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy, one crust cherry pie with canned filling is the perfect dessert for when you’re short on time but want something homemade and delicious. The canned cherry filling saves time, while the simple crust brings a golden, flaky base to this sweet and tart treat.
Ingredients
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (or more if preferred)
- 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra brightness)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken the filling)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added richness)
- 1 egg (optional, for egg wash to glaze the crust)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pie Crust:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– If using a store-bought pie crust, unroll it and place it into a 9-inch pie pan. Press gently into the pan, ensuring it fits well. If you’re making your own pie crust, roll it out to about 1/8 inch thickness and fit it into the pan.
2. Prepare the Filling:
– Open the canned cherry pie filling and pour it into a bowl. If you want to thicken it, stir in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. For added brightness, you can mix in a tablespoon of lemon juice.
– Optional: You can enhance the flavor of the filling by adding a dash of almond extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon, but it’s delicious on its own!
3. Assemble the Pie:
– Pour the cherry filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
– If you like a buttery finish, dot the top of the filling with small pieces of butter (about 1 tablespoon total).
4. Top the Pie:
– If you’d like a glossy finish, whisk the egg and lightly brush it over the top of the crust. Then, sprinkle a little sugar on top for a nice texture and sweetness.
– You can also create a few slits in the top of the crust or leave it as is for a simple, one-crust pie.
5. Bake the Pie:
– Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
– If the edges of the crust are browning too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie shield to prevent burning.
6. Cool and Serve:
– Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set and prevents it from running out when cut.
– Serve it with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or just as it is!
Notes
– For a thicker filling, add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the canned cherry filling and cook it for 2-3 minutes until it thickens. This helps prevent the filling from being too runny.
– For extra flavor, a splash of almond extract complements the cherry filling beautifully, making it even more fragrant.
– Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free pie crust, making this pie a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Pie
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Homemade
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of the pie)
- Calories: 250-280 kcal
- Sugar: 25-28g
- Sodium: 150-200mg
- Fat: 14-16g
- Saturated Fat: 3-4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10-12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 1-2g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Cholesterol: 25-35mg
Tips for Perfecting Your One Crust Cherry Pie with Canned Filling
How to Achieve the Perfect Crust Texture
Achieving the perfect crust for your one crust cherry pie with canned filling is all about technique. First, when making or rolling out your dough, use cold butter or lard. This ensures a flakier texture. For an extra crispy base, try “blind baking” the crust (baking it without the filling) for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) before adding the canned filling. You can place pie weights or dried beans over parchment paper to prevent the crust from puffing up during baking. This method helps create a sturdier, crisper bottom that won’t turn soggy after baking.
Another important tip is to avoid overworking the dough. Once you’ve mixed the ingredients, stop. Overmixing can lead to a tough crust, the last thing you want for your one crust cherry pie with canned filling.
Flavor Variations: Adding Almond Extract, Lemon, or Spices
Want to elevate your cherry pie with canned filling? You can easily add a few ingredients to the canned filling to give it your twist. For example, a teaspoon of almond extract can bring a nutty richness to your cherry filling, perfectly complementing the tartness of the cherries. Also, add a little lemon zest for a burst of freshness. If you like a hint of warmth, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can provide a cosy, spiced aroma that pairs wonderfully with the cherry flavour.
For more delicious recipes, explore other ideas on the website.
How to Serve One Crust Cherry Pie with Canned Filling
Best Ways to Serve Cherry Pie
Once your cherry pie with canned filling has cooled, it’s time to dig in! While delicious, you can always make it a little extra special with simple toppings. A dollop of freshly whipped cream is an easy and elegant choice, balancing out the tartness of the cherries with a creamy touch. Alternatively, serve the pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which melts beautifully over the warm pie, making for an indulgent dessert experience.
If you prefer something richer, top the pie with custard or drizzle it with a chocolate sauce for a decadent twist.
Pairing Cherry Pie with Drinks
Cherry pie pairs wonderfully with a variety of drinks. For a classic touch, serve it with a hot coffee or tea. The bitterness of the coffee contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the pie, while tea adds a delicate, floral note. If you’re looking for something more festive, pair the pie with a light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the cherry flavour beautifully, or even sparkling wine for a celebratory vibe.
Storing and Freezing One Crust Cherry Pie with Canned Filling
How to Store Leftover One Crust Cherry Pie
If you find yourself with leftover cherry pie with canned filling, storing it properly is key to preserving its freshness. After the pie has cooled completely, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. At room temperature, it will last for up to two days. However, it’s best to keep the pie in the refrigerator for longer storage, which will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Ensure the pie is fully cooled before storing it to prevent the crust from becoming foggy. This gives the filling time to set, preventing any liquid from seeping into the crust.
Can You Freeze One Crust Cherry Pie?
Yes! Freezing your one crust cherry pie with canned filling is a great way to enjoy it at a later date. After the pie has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic and aluminium foil. Then, place the pie in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, remove the pie from the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
For best results, reheat the pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to get the crust crispy again. This will bring back that freshly-baked taste!
FAQs About One Crust Cherry Pie with Canned Filling
Can I Use Fresh Cherries Instead of Canned Filling?
Absolutely! While canned cherry filling is convenient, you can use fresh cherries. To create your filling, you’ll need to cook the chs down with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. This may take a bit longer, but it offers a more homemade, personalized touch to your one crust cherry pie with canned filling. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness and consistency to your liking.
How Do I Make the Crust More Flaky?
If you’re aiming for a flakier crust for your one crust cherry pie with canned filling, make sure to use cold butter or lard when making the dough. You can also refrigerate the dough before rolling it out to prevent it from becoming too warm. Also, avoid overworking the dough, which can result in a tough texture. For extra crispiness, blind-bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
Can I Substitute the Canned Cherry Filling with Other Fruit?
Yes, you can! While this recipe is for cherry pie, you can easily substitute the canned cherry filling with other fruit fillings, such as blueberry, peach, or apple. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness and thickness of the filling if necessary, as different fruits have varying moisture content. You can also combine fruits for a unique twist!
Healthier Variations for One Crust Cherry Pie with Canned Filling
Using Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pie Crust
For a healthier cherry pie with canned filling, try using a whole wheat or gluten-free crust. Whole wheat flour adds fiber and a nutty flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, there are pre-made options available. You can also make your own gluten-free crust using a flour blend. Just keep in mind that gluten-free dough can be more delicate, so handle it carefully.
Reducing Sugar in Canned Cherry Filling
You can make your pie healthier by reducing the sugar in the canned filling. Many canned cherry fillings are sweet, so you can cut back on sugar without sacrificing flavor. If the pie turns out too tart, try using honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugar for a natural sweetness. Additionally, low-sugar or no-sugar-added canned cherry fillings are available. This helps you enjoy the cherry flavor without the extra sugar.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts on One Crust Cherry Pie with Canned Filling
Why You Should Try One Crust Cherry Pie with Canned Filling
In conclusion, the one crust cherry pie with canned filling is easy to make and delicious. Using canned filling saves time without compromising on flavor. This pie is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike. It’s also versatile—you can add flavor variations, adjust the sweetness, or try healthier crust options.
Final Tips for Perfecting Your Pie
To make the perfect one crust cherry pie with canned filling, ensure the crust stays flaky and crisp. Don’t hesitate to get creative with the filling! With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a tasty pie to share with loved ones. Happy baking!