Delicious Cherry Crumb Pie Recipe

A delightful pairing of tart cherries and sweet filling crowned by a buttery, golden crunch.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach
Created on

Welcome to the World of Cherry Crumb Pie

Cherry crumb pie is a classic dessert that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of cherries with a crunchy streusel topping. This delightful pie is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a special holiday, or simply a cozy evening at home. In this article, we will delve into the world of cherry crumb pie, exploring its simple yet delectable recipe and the steps you need to follow to create this masterpiece.

Why Cherry Crumb Pie Stands Out

Cherry crumb pie stands out for its unique combination of flavors and textures. Unlike traditional pies with a complete top crust, cherry crumb pie features a crumbly streusel topping that adds a delightful crunch to each bite. This topping complements the juicy cherry filling perfectly, creating a dessert that is both visually appealing and delectably flavorful.

Ingredients for the Cherry Crumb Pie

To make this delicious pie, you will need the following ingredients:

  • Cherry Filling:
    • 6 cups frozen tart cherries (about 32 ounces)
    • 2/3 cup sugar
    • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
    • 1/4 cup cornstarch
    • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • Crumb Topping:
    • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
    • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
    • 6 tablespoons cold salted butter, diced
  • Pie Crust:
    • 1 Perfect Pie Crust round, thawed slightly

Instructions for Preparing the Cherry Crumb Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Filling

Begin by combining the cherries and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the juices are hot and bubbling, usually around 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and cook for an additional minute.

Step 2: Thicken the Cherry Filling

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and lemon juice until smooth. Add this mixture to the cherry mixture and stir until it is fully incorporated. Continue cooking for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until the filling becomes glossy and thickened. Remove from heat, let cool completely, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use or for up to a day.

Step 3: Make the Crumb Topping

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, and salt. Then, use your fingers to work in the cold butter until the mixture resembles small, pea-sized crumbs. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before using or store for up to a day.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Pie

Preheat the oven to 375°F. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pie dough into a 12-inch round. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie pan, gently pressing it against the sides. Tuck the overhanging dough under itself and crimp the edges. Pour the cooled cherry filling into the pie crust and top with the crumb topping. Place the pie on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for about 50 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and the crust is nicely browned. If necessary, cover the edges with foil to prevent overbrowning.

Once done, transfer the pie to a rack and let it cool for at least 2 hours before serving.

Other Variations and Tips

Besides the classic tart cherry version, you can also experiment with sweet cherries or other flavor combinations to create unique variations of the cherry crumb pie.

Using Sweet Cherries

Sweet cherries can be used to make a sweeter cherry crumb pie, but you may need to adjust the amount of sugar in the filling. Additionally, sweet cherries have a softer texture, so they might require slightly less cooking time.

Adding Spices and Extracts

Consider adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or a few drops of almond extract to the filling for an extra depth of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?

A: Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but ensure they are pitted and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Fresh cherries may require a bit more water to help the cornstarch dissolve.

Q: How long can I store the cherry filling and crumb topping?

A: The cherry filling can be refrigerated for up to a day, and the crumb topping can be refrigerated for up to a day or frozen for a month.

Q: Can I bake the pie at a different temperature?

A: While the recipe suggests baking at 375°F, you can also bake at 400°F for a crisper crust. However, be sure to monitor the pie closely to prevent overbrowning.

Conclusion

Cherry crumb pie is a delightful dessert that is both easy to make and incredibly delicious. With its sweet cherry filling and crunchy streusel topping, it is sure to become a favorite at any gathering. Whether you use tart or sweet cherries, this pie is a testament to the joy of baking and sharing love through food.

Sneha Tete
Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete