Sour Cherry Pie Recipe

Sour cherry pie is a classic summer dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. The combination of tart cherries and sweet pastry creates a perfect balance of flavors. This recipe dates back to the early 19th century and has remained a favorite among pie lovers ever since.

Fun fact: Sour cherries, also known as tart cherries, are different from sweet cherries. They are smaller, brighter, and have a more acidic taste. Sour cherry trees are native to regions of Europe and Asia, but they have been cultivated in various parts of the world, including the United States.

To make a delicious sour cherry pie, you will need the following ingredients:
- One quart of sour cherries
- 1/2 cup of flour for juicy sour cherries (scant measure of flour)
- 1-1/2 cups of sugar
- Pie crust (enough for a double-crust pie)

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Start by pitting the cherries, making sure to save the cherry juice. You can use a cherry pitter or remove the pits manually.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar and flour and give it a good mix. This mixture will help thicken the cherry juice when baked.

4. Take a pie-tin and line it with pastry, either homemade or store-bought. Press the pastry against the sides of the tin, ensuring it adheres well.

5. Sprinkle about one-third of the sugar and flour mixture onto the pastry-lined pie-tin. This will create a barrier between the cherries and the pastry, preventing it from getting soggy.

6. Now, it's time to fill the pie. Add the pitted cherries into the pie-tin, making sure to include any accumulated juice. Spread them evenly across the tin.

7. Sprinkle the remaining sugar and flour mixture over the cherries. This will help thicken the pie filling as it bakes.

8. Roll out the second pie crust and place it on top of the pie. You can create a lattice pattern, a vented top, or simply cover the pie completely. If you choose to cover the pie completely, don't forget to cut a few vents to allow steam to escape during baking.

9. Optional: For a golden and glossy finish, you can brush the top of the pie with beaten egg or milk.

10. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Keep an eye on the pie during the last few minutes of baking to prevent any over-browning.

11. Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least an hour before slicing and serving. This will allow the pie filling to set.

Sour cherry pie is best served warm or at room temperature. You can serve it on its own or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.

Similar recipes to sour cherry pie include cherry crumble, cherry cobbler, and cherry turnovers. These desserts also showcase the delicious flavor of cherries in different preparations. Whether you prefer a pie, crumble, or turnover, sour cherries are a versatile fruit that can be enjoyed in a variety of desserts. So, don't hesitate to try different recipes and find your favorite way to savor the delightful taste of sour cherries.

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