Discover the secret to a flaky, buttery crust and a rich, fruity filling in this impossible cherry pie recipe. Get the detailed guide, pro tips, and realistic timing now!
What is an Impossible Cherry Pie?
The Impossible Cherry Pie is a beloved classic dessert that has been a staple in many American households for decades. This iconic pie is known for its flaky, buttery crust and rich, fruity filling, made with 240 g / 1 cup of fresh or frozen cherries.
The magic behind this dessert lies in its unique crust, which is made with a mixture of 120 g / 1/2 cup of biscuit or cake mix, 60 g / 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 60 ml / 1/4 cup of melted butter. This combination creates a crust that is both crispy and tender, without the need for traditional pie dough.
- Key ingredients: cherries, biscuit or cake mix, granulated sugar, melted butter
- Baking temperature: 190 °C / 375 °F
In the next sections, we’ll dive deeper into the history of the Impossible Cherry Pie and provide a step-by-step guide to making this delicious dessert at home.
Impossible Cherry Pie
This recipe is a game-changer! Get ready for a cherry pie that’s unbelievably easy to make, yet tastes like it came straight from grandma’s oven.
Quick Stats
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 8
This pie is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight desserts to impressive holiday gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the list! Most of these are pantry staples:
- 1 box (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts
- 1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
Get ready to bake up a masterpiece!
Gather Your Ingredients: The Essential List
Creating an impossible cherry pie requires precision, but the good news is that you can easily find all the necessary ingredients at your local grocery store or bakery. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
Pie Crust Essentials
The flaky crust is a crucial component of any pie. To achieve this flaky texture, you’ll need:
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp (5 g) salt
- 1 cup (225 g) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) ice-cold water
- 1 tsp (5 g) white vinegar
Cherry Pie Filling
The rich and fruity filling is what makes impossible cherry pie truly unforgettable. To achieve this, you’ll need:
- 1 cup (240 g) granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp (30 g) cornstarch
- 1 cup (240 g) fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp (5 g) almond extract (optional)
Optional Ingredients
Take your impossible cherry pie to the next level with these optional ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (120 g) chopped almonds or pecans for added texture
- 1 tsp (5 g) vanilla extract for extra flavor
- 1/4 cup (60 g) brown sugar for a deeper flavor profile
Remember to always check your pantry and fridge before heading to the store, and don’t forget to chill your ingredients before assembling the pie.
Making the Impossible Cherry Pie: A Step-by-Step Guide
To make the impossible cherry pie, it’s essential to follow a series of precise steps, from preparing the crust to assembling the pie, to ensure a delicious and visually appealing dessert.
The impossible cherry pie recipe requires attention to detail and a bit of patience, but with the right instructions, it can be a fun and rewarding baking experience.
Preparing the Crust and Filling
Before assembling the pie, prepare the crust and filling according to the recipe, which typically includes a mixture of 240 g / 1 cup of flour, 120 g / 1/2 cup of sugar, and 60 g / 1/4 cup of cold unsalted butter, chilled to 4°C / 39°F.
The cherry filling is made by combining 400 g / 2 cups of fresh or frozen cherries, 200 g / 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 30 ml / 2 tablespoons of cornstarch in a saucepan, cooking over medium heat at 180°C / 356°F for 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture thickens.
Assembling the Pie
- Preheat the oven to 190°C / 374°F and position the rack in the lower third of the oven to ensure even baking.
- Roll out the chilled crust to a thickness of about 3 mm / 1/8 inch and place it in a 23 cm / 9-inch pie dish, trimming the edges to fit.
- Pour the cooled cherry filling into the pie crust, leaving a 2.5 cm / 1-inch border around the edges to allow for expansion during baking.
- Roll out the remaining crust to a thickness of about 3 mm / 1/8 inch and use it to cover the pie, crimping the edges to seal the filling inside.
- Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking and brush the surface with a little bit of milk or beaten egg for a golden glaze.
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven at 190°C / 374°F for 40-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly and hot.
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing the filling to set and the crust to cool completely.
By following these step-by-step instructions and using the right ingredients and techniques, you can create a delicious and impressive impossible cherry pie that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Tips and Variations
- Use a variety of cherry types, such as sweet or sour cherries, to create a unique flavor profile.
- Add a splash of almond extract or vanilla to the filling for extra depth of flavor.
- Experiment with different crust recipes, such as a gluten-free or vegan crust, to accommodate dietary restrictions.
With these tips and variations, you can take your impossible cherry pie to the next level and make it a truly unforgettable dessert experience.
Pro Tips and Tricks: Elevate Your Impossible Cherry Pie
You’ve got the impossible cherry pie recipe down pat, but let’s take it up a notch! These pro tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and achieve a pie that’s truly show-stopping.
Crust Confidence: Say Goodbye to Soggy Bottoms
- Pre-bake your crust: Blind baking (baking the crust without filling) for 10-12 minutes at 190°C (375°F) creates a sturdy base that prevents sogginess. Prick the bottom with a fork and line it with parchment paper and pie weights to ensure even baking.
- Use a sturdy crust: A high-fat content in your dough (think butter or shortening) creates a more robust crust that can withstand the juicy filling.
Golden-Brown Perfection
A beautiful golden-brown crust is key to a picture-perfect pie. To achieve this:
- Egg wash: Brush the crust with a beaten egg before baking for a glossy finish and deeper color.
- Rotate the pie: Halfway through baking, rotate the pie for even browning.
Prevent Overly-Sweet Filling
Cherry pie filling can sometimes be overly sweet. To balance the flavors:
- Add a touch of tartness: A squeeze of lemon juice or a tablespoon of cherry juice concentrate can brighten the filling.
- Reduce the sugar: You can often reduce the sugar in the recipe by 1-2 tablespoons without sacrificing flavor.
Substitutions and Variations: Get Creative with Your Impossible Cherry Pie
Want to try something new with your impossible cherry pie? Experiment with different ingredients to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste buds.
Cherry Variations
- Sour cherries: Replace sweet cherries with 1 cup (120g) of sour cherries for a tangier filling.
- Cherry jam: Add 1/4 cup (60g) of cherry jam to the filling for a sweeter and more intense cherry flavor.
- Cherry preserves: Use 1/4 cup (60g) of cherry preserves for a slightly sweeter and more textured filling.
Nutty Delights
- Walnuts: Add 1/2 cup (60g) of chopped walnuts to the crust for added texture and flavor.
- Pecans: Use 1/2 cup (60g) of chopped pecans for a richer and nuttier flavor.
Spice It Up
- Cinnamon: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon powder to the filling for a warm and comforting flavor.
- Nutmeg: Use 1/8 teaspoon of nutmeg powder for a subtle and aromatic flavor.
Remember to adjust the amount of sugar according to the sweetness level of your chosen cherries and variations. Get creative and enjoy experimenting with different combinations!
Variations and Twists: Take Your Impossible Cherry Pie to New Heights
Elevate the classic impossible cherry pie with these creative variations, each offering a unique twist on the original recipe.
- Bourbon Cherry Pie: Add 60 ml / 1/4 cup of bourbon to the filling for a boozy kick, increasing the baking time by 10-12 minutes at 190°C / 375°F.
- Almond Cherry Pie: Mix in 120 g / 1 cup of sliced almonds and 1 teaspoon of almond extract, enhancing the flavor and texture with a nutty twist.
- Chocolate Cherry Pie: Introduce 60 g / 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips to the filling, creating a rich and decadent flavor combination that requires an additional 5-7 minutes of baking time at 180°C / 350°F.
- Cinnamon Cherry Pie: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the filling, warming the flavor profile without altering the baking time.
These variations offer a range of flavor and texture enhancements, from boozy and nutty to rich and spicy, ensuring that every impossible cherry pie is a unique creation.
Keep Your Impossible Cherry Pie Fresh
Your impossible cherry pie is a masterpiece, and you want it to stay that way! Here’s how to store and reheat it for maximum deliciousness:
Storage
Let the pie cool completely before storing. This usually takes about 2 hours at room temperature. Once cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Room Temperature: For short-term storage (up to 2 days), keep the pie at room temperature. This is best for enjoying the pie at its peak freshness.
- Refrigerator: For longer storage (up to 5 days), refrigerate the pie. The cold temperature will help preserve its texture and flavor.
- Freezer: To enjoy your pie later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat a refrigerated pie, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, bake it in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
A frozen pie will need to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheat as above.
Common Issues and Solutions for Your Impossible Cherry Pie
A well-made impossible cherry pie is a delight, but sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are some common issues and their easy fixes to ensure your pie turns out perfectly.
Soggy Crust
- Issue: Overworking the dough or using too much liquid.
- Solution: Mix the dough just until the ingredients come together, and avoid adding excess liquid. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
Overcooked Filling
- Issue: Cooking the filling for too long or at too high a temperature.
- Solution: Reduce the cooking time by 5-10 minutes and check the filling frequently to avoid overcooking. Use a thermometer to ensure the filling reaches 190°C (374°F) to 200°C (392°F).
Runny Filling
- Issue: Not cooking the filling long enough or using too much liquid.
- Solution: Increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes and make sure to use the right amount of liquid. You can also add a little cornstarch or flour to thicken the filling.
Crust Not Baking Evenly
- Issue: Not rotating the pie or using a non-stick baking sheet.
- Solution: Rotate the pie halfway through baking to ensure even cooking. Use a non-stick baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent the crust from sticking.
Nutrition Facts: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
A single serving of Impossible Cherry Pie (1 slice, approximately 120 g / 4.3 oz) contains around 320 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 40 g / 1.4 oz carbohydrates, 20 g / 0.7 oz fat, and 2 g / 0.07 oz protein.
- Calories per serving: 320
- Sugar content: 25 g / 0.88 oz per serving
This recipe is GF (gluten-free) and DF (dairy-free), but not Vegan due to the presence of eggs. Be mindful of the sugar content and overall calorie count when indulging in this Impossible Cherry Pie.
- What is the ideal cherry variety for this Impossible Cherry Pie Recipe? Tart cherries, such as Montmorency or Balaton, work best due to their natural acidity and sweetness balance.
- Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh cherries? Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but thaw and pat them dry with paper towels before using to prevent excess moisture in the filling.
- How do I prevent the crust from becoming too brown during baking? To minimize crust browning, cover the edges with foil or a pie shield for the first 30 minutes of baking, then remove for the remaining time.
- Can I make this Impossible Cherry Pie Recipe ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer? Yes, assemble the pie up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready. For freezing, assemble and freeze the pie, then thaw and bake when needed, following the original baking time.
Frequently Asked Questions: Your Impossible Cherry Pie Queries Answered
Making an impossible cherry pie can seem daunting, but we’re here to make it easy. We’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions about this delicious dessert.
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time or prefer a store-bought option, feel free to use a pre-made pie crust. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
How do I know when the filling is done?
The filling is ready when it thickens and bubbles around the edges. A good test is to gently lift the edges of the crust; if the filling underneath is set, it’s done.
My crust is browning too quickly. What should I do?
To prevent over-browning, loosely cover the edges of the crust with aluminum foil for the first 30 minutes of baking.
Can I freeze leftover pie?
Yes, leftover pie can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
Key Takeaways: The Essential Lessons from Our Impossible Cherry Pie Recipe
Our Impossible Cherry Pie Recipe is a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress. To ensure your pie turns out perfectly, remember these essential lessons:
- Blind Baking is Key: Pre-baking the crust before filling is crucial to prevent a soggy bottom. Don’t skip this step!
- Don’t Overmix the Filling: Gently fold the cherry mixture to avoid releasing their natural juices and creating a runny pie.
- Temperature Control is Everything: Ensure your oven is at the correct temperature (180°C / 350°F) for a perfectly baked crust and filling.
Pro Tips & Variations:
- For a Glazed Twist: Brush the pie crust with a mixture of powdered sugar and milk before baking.
- Substitute Almond Extract: Add a hint of almond flavor to your cherry filling for a unique twist.
- Try Dark Cherries: Use tart cherries for a deeper, richer flavor.
By following these key takeaways and pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a show-stopping Impossible Cherry Pie that’s sure to impress.
The Impossible Cherry Pie Recipe That Will Change Your Life
There you have it—the Impossible Cherry Pie recipe that’s surprisingly easy to master. We’ve walked you through crafting a buttery, flaky crust and a luscious cherry filling bursting with flavor.
Get ready to impress your friends and family with this show-stopping dessert. The combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible.
Ready to give it a try? Follow the steps carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with a pie that’s truly unforgettable.
Want to explore more incredible pie recipes? Check out our collection of mouthwatering pies—there’s something for everyone!
