Cherries For Pies Recipe

Recipe: Cherries for Pies

Introduction:
Cherries have been a beloved fruit for centuries and have become a staple ingredient in many dessert recipes around the world. One delightful way to preserve cherries and enjoy their sweet flavor year-round is by canning them for pies. This recipe not only provides a method for canning cherries but also includes a delicious syrup that enhances their natural taste. Let's explore the process of preparing cherries for pies and some interesting facts about this traditional recipe.

Fun Facts:
- Cherries have a long and fascinating history, dating back thousands of years. They were first cultivated in ancient Mesopotamia and were later introduced to the Mediterranean region by the Greeks and Romans.
- The ancient Romans were known to enjoy cherries and even spread them throughout their vast empire. They also believed that cherries had medicinal properties and used them to treat various ailments.
- The popularity of cherries continued to grow during the 19th century. In Europe, they became an essential ingredient in many desserts, including pies, tarts, and cakes.
- Canning cherries in syrup was a common practice in households before refrigeration became widely available. This method allowed families to enjoy the taste of cherries long after the harvest season had ended.

Ingredients:
- Fresh cherries
- Granulated sugar
- Water

Instructions:
1. Start by sterilizing the glass fruit jars to ensure the cherries stay fresh for an extended period. Wash the jars and lids with hot, soapy water, rinse them well, and place them in a large pot filled with boiling water for about 10 minutes. Remove and set them aside to dry.

2. Meanwhile, wash the cherries thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Gently remove the stems from the cherries, but avoid pitting them. The pits will add flavor to the syrup during the canning process.

3. Pack the stemmed cherries tightly into the sterilized glass fruit jars, leaving a little bit of headroom at the top to allow for expansion during processing.

4. In a separate pot, prepare the syrup by combining two tablespoons of granulated sugar for every quart of fruit. Add one-half cup of water for every quart of cherries. Stir the mixture well, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely.

5. Pour the syrup over the cherries in the jars, making sure they are fully covered. Leave about ½ inch of headspace to allow for proper sealing.

6. Place the lids on the jars and secure them tightly. In a large pot or canner, bring water to a boil. Carefully place the sealed jars into the boiling water, ensuring they are fully submerged.

7. Allow the jars to boil for about 15 minutes from the time they begin to boil. This process will ensure the cherries are properly sterilized and will prevent spoilage.

8. After the processing time, carefully remove the jars from the boiling water using tongs or a jar lifter, and place them on a clean towel to cool. As they cool, a vacuum seal will form, indicating that the jars are properly sealed.

9. Once the jars have cooled completely, label them with the date and store them in a cool, dark place. Canned cherries can be stored for up to a year, providing a delicious addition to pies anytime you desire.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
- Cherry Pie: Utilize the canned cherries to create a mouthwatering cherry pie. Combine the canned cherries with a sweet filling made from sugar, cornstarch, and a touch of lemon juice. Pour the mixture into a prepared pie crust and bake until golden brown.
- Cherry Crumble: For a twist on the classic pie, make a cherry crumble. Spread the canned cherries in a baking dish and top them with a crumbly mixture of flour, sugar, and butter. Bake until the topping is golden and the cherries are bubbling.
- Cherry Tart: Roll out a sheet of puff pastry and trim it into a rectangular shape. Spread a layer of canned cherries over the pastry, leaving a border around the edges. Bake until the pastry is golden and serve with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Conclusion:
Preserving cherries by canning them in syrup is a wonderful way to enjoy their sweetness throughout the year. Whether you use the canned cherries for a classic pie, a crumble, or a tart, you'll be savoring the flavors of this delightful fruit. So, grab some fresh cherries and try your hand at canning cherries for pies – it's a rewarding and delicious process!