Description
Learn how to make a delicious homemade cherry pie filling that is perfect for pies, tarts, or as a topping. This sweet and tangy filling is easy to prepare and bursting with fresh cherry flavor.
Ingredients
Cherry Pie Filling:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup water (or cherry juice if using frozen cherries)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, cornstarch, salt, and water. Stir until smooth and no lumps remain.
- Add the cherries and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently. Reduce heat and simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and the cherries soften.
- Stir in lemon juice and almond extract if using. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Use immediately in pies, tarts, or as a topping, or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Notes
- If using frozen cherries, there’s no need to thaw them—just reduce the water slightly if they release a lot of juice.
- Adjust the sugar to taste based on the sweetness of the cherries.