Cherry Pie, No. 1 Recipe

Recipe for Cherry Pie, No. 1

History:
Cherry pie is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. The first recorded recipe for cherry pie can be traced back to ancient Rome. The Roman statesman and philosopher, Marcus Tullius Cicero, mentioned a cherry-filled pastry in his writings, showing that cherries have long been appreciated for their delicious flavor.

Fun Facts:
1. Cherries are believed to have originated in the region between the Black and Caspian Seas more than 2,000 years ago.
2. The United States is the largest producer of cherries in the world, with Michigan being known as the "Cherry Capital of the World."
3. Sour cherries are typically used for cherry pie because their tartness balances the sweetness of the filling.
4. Cherry pie is often associated with 4th of July celebrations in the United States, as cherries are in season during the summer months.

Now, let's dive into the recipe for Cherry Pie, No. 1:

Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen sour cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust according to the sweetness of the cherries)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 package store-bought or homemade pie crust

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a pie plate with one of the pie crusts, pressing it gently into the plate.

2. Sprinkle the cornstarch lightly over the bottom crust. This will help absorb excess moisture from the cherries while baking.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine the pitted cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and almond extract. Stir gently to coat the cherries evenly with the sugar mixture.

4. Pour the cherry filling into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly. Be sure to leave a small border around the edges for sealing the pie.

5. Roll out the second pie crust and cover the cherry filling. Press the edges of the crust together with the bottom crust to seal the pie. You can crimp the edges using a fork or your fingers to create a decorative pattern.

6. Cut slits or designs in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking. This will prevent the pie from becoming too soggy.

7. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

8. Once baked, remove the cherry pie from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely before serving. This will allow the filling to set.

9. Once cooled, you can enjoy the cherry pie as is, or serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
1. Apple Pie: Similar to cherry pie, apple pie is a beloved dessert classic made with a sweetened apple filling and a flaky pastry crust.
2. Blueberry Pie: Blueberry pie shares many similarities with cherry pie, as it is made with a fruit filling and a double crust. It is equally delicious and refreshing.
3. Peach Pie: Another popular fruit pie, peach pie features a juicy peach filling encased in a buttery crust. It is perfect for showcasing the natural sweetness of ripe peaches.
4. Blackberry Pie: For those who enjoy tangy and slightly tart flavors, blackberry pie is a great alternative. It offers a burst of juicy sweetness with a hint of tartness.

Remember, the joy of making cherry pie lies not just in the final result but also in the process itself. So, have fun experimenting with different crust designs and enjoy the sweet aroma that fills your kitchen while the pie bakes.