Cherry Delight Pie Filling
This delightful pie filling captures the essence of summer with sweet, ripe dark cherries. Hailing from an old cookbook dating back to 1960, this recipe invites you to indulge in the rich flavors of sweet cherries and adds a sophisticated touch. Optionally, enhance the flavor by incorporating almond extract or a splash of Kirsch for a delightful twist. This recipe yields enough filling for two 9-inch pies, making it perfect for gatherings or family feasts. Feel free to halve the recipe for a smaller batch or to enjoy the cherry goodness in more pies throughout the season!
2
Servings
400
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Thawed frozen dark sweet cherries
6-6.5 cups (thawed)
Salt
1/8 teaspoon
Sugar
1/2-1 cup (adjust to taste (1/2 cup recommended for less sweetness))
Cornstarch
4-5 tablespoons
Lemon juice
2 tablespoons (fresh or bottled)
Kirsch or almond extract (optional)
1 tablespoon (for flavor enhancement)
Instructions
1
Thaw your frozen dark sweet cherries and reserve about 1/2 cup of the juice.
2
In a small bowl, mix the reserved juice with 4 to 5 tablespoons of cornstarch, adjusting depending on your desired thickness.
3
In a large saucepan, combine the thawed cherries, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat until the mixture begins to bubble, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
4
If using a microwave, heat the cherry mixture at 5-minute intervals, stirring in between each interval until bubbling.
5
Once bubbling, add the reserved juice and cornstarch mixture to the saucepan. Stir continuously to combine thoroughly.
6
Continue cooking for an additional 3 minutes or until the filling thickens to your liking.
7
Stir in the lemon juice and optional Kirsch or almond extract for added flavor.
8
Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool before using in your favorite pie crust.
Nutrition Information
2.5g
Fat
90g
Carbs
3g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cherry Delight Pie Filling?
It is a sweet and rich dessert filling made with dark sweet cherries, based on a classic 1960s recipe.
What kind of cherries should I use?
The recipe calls for thawed frozen dark sweet cherries.
What is the origin of this recipe?
This recipe comes from an old cookbook dating back to 1960.
How many pies does this recipe make?
This recipe yields enough filling for two 9-inch pies.
Can I make a smaller batch of this filling?
Yes, you can easily halve the recipe for a single pie or a smaller serving.
Do I need to thaw the cherries first?
Yes, you must thaw the frozen cherries and reserve a portion of the juice.
How much cherry juice should I reserve?
You should reserve about 1/2 cup of the juice from the thawed cherries.
How do I thicken the cherry filling?
The filling is thickened using a mixture of reserved cherry juice and cornstarch.
How much cornstarch is required?
Use 4 to 5 tablespoons of cornstarch depending on how thick you want the filling.
What are the initial ingredients to cook?
In a large saucepan, combine the thawed cherries, sugar, and salt.
What heat setting is used for the stove?
The mixture should be cooked over medium heat until it begins to bubble.
How do I prevent the mixture from sticking?
Stir the mixture constantly while it is cooking on the stove.
Is there a microwave instruction for this recipe?
Yes, you can heat the mixture at 5-minute intervals, stirring between each, until it bubbles.
When do I add the cornstarch mixture?
Add the juice and cornstarch mixture once the cherry base has started bubbling.
How long should I cook the filling after adding the thickener?
Cook for an additional 3 minutes or until the filling reaches your desired thickness.
When should I add the lemon juice?
Stir in the lemon juice after the filling has thickened and is removed from the heat.
What optional flavors can I add?
You can add a tablespoon of Kirsch or almond extract for a sophisticated twist.
How much sugar is recommended?
The recipe suggests 1/2 to 1 cup of sugar, with 1/2 cup recommended for less sweetness.
Does this recipe include salt?
Yes, it includes 1/8 teaspoon of salt.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Yes, you can use either fresh or bottled lemon juice.
What is the purpose of adding Kirsch?
Kirsch is used as an optional flavor enhancer to add a sophisticated touch to the cherries.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
The recipe is calculated for 2 large servings, which corresponds to two full pies.
What are the calories per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 400 calories.
How much fat is in this cherry filling?
There are 2.5 grams of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate content?
There are 90 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is in the filling?
Each serving contains 3 grams of protein.
Should I cool the filling before baking?
Yes, allow the filling to cool before using it in your favorite pie crust.
How many total ingredients are used?
There are 6 primary ingredients including the optional flavorings.
Is this recipe suitable for gatherings?
Yes, because it makes enough for two pies, it is perfect for family feasts or large gatherings.
Is this a sweet or tart pie filling?
This is a sweet filling featuring dark sweet cherries and adjustable sugar levels.