Classic Covered Cherry Pie: A Sweet Encounter with Tradition

Experience the delightful charm of a Classic Covered Cherry Pie, a recipe that marries the tartness of fresh cherries with the sweetness of a homemade crust for a truly timeless dessert. This pie features a tender, almond-flavored pastry filled with juicy cherries, enhanced by the zest of organic lemon and the warmth of vanilla. Topped with a lattice crust that’s golden and crisp, each slice is a testament to the joys of baking with seasonal fruits.

Why You’ll Love This:

This Covered Cherry Pie stands out for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The addition of ground almonds to the pastry dough lends a subtle nuttiness that complements the cherries’ natural tartness beautifully. The filling, rich with the brightness of lemon and the depth of vanilla, creates a filling that’s both refreshing and comforting. It’s a pie that promises to be a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both fruit pie aficionados and those who appreciate the art of baking.

Perfect Occasion:

Ideal for summer picnics, family gatherings, or simply as a weekend baking project, this cherry pie is a versatile choice that fits any occasion. It’s especially fitting for celebrating cherry season at its peak, making it a wonderful way to enjoy the bounty of summer. Serve it at your next gathering and watch it become the star of the table.

Decoration Tips:

For a beautifully presented pie, arrange the lattice crust with care and brush it with a mixture of egg yolk and cream for a glossy finish. Sprinkle the top with sugar before baking to add a touch of sparkle and crunch. Once baked and slightly cooled, garnish with fresh cherries and mint leaves for a splash of color. A final dusting of powdered sugar right before serving adds an elegant touch.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 220g flour
• 100g ground almonds
• 80g sugar
• 2 tablespoons vanilla sugar
• A pinch of salt
• 75g quark (a type of fresh cheese)
• 1 egg
• 140g butter, cut into pieces

For the Filling:

• 800g cherries, pitted
• 50g powdered sugar
• Zest of ½ organic lemon, finely grated
• 1 teaspoon ground vanilla
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons cream
• Sugar for sprinkling

Instructions:

1. Combine all dough ingredients in a bowl and mix until a firm dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
2. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a tart pan (approx. 24cm diameter).
3. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 5mm thickness. Cut out a circle larger than the pan and line the pan with it. Prick the bottom several times with a fork and bake for 10-15 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly.
4. Mix cherries with powdered sugar, lemon zest, vanilla, and cornstarch. Spread over the pre-baked crust.
5. Knead the dough remnants, roll out, and cut into 2cm wide strips. Arrange in a lattice pattern over the cherries. Mix egg yolk with cream and brush over the lattice. Sprinkle with sugar.
6. Bake for about 50 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly, then remove from the pan. Optionally garnish with fresh cherries and cherry leaves, and dust with powdered sugar.

Enjoy this Classic Covered Cherry Pie, where each slice brings a burst of summer flavor, wrapped in a tender, almond-scented crust. It’s a delightful way to celebrate cherry season and add a touch of sweetness to any occasion.