Introduction

Frozen sour cherry berry pie is a delightful dessert that celebrates the natural sweetness of berries and the tanginess of cherries. This pie is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a comforting treat during the colder months. With a crisp crust and a luscious filling, this dish will impress your family and friends alike.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 500g frozen sour cherries
– 200g mixed berries (such as blueberries and raspberries)
– 150g sugar
– 40g cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– A pinch of salt
– 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 egg (for egg wash)

Prep Time

The preparation time for this delicious frozen sour cherry berry pie is approximately 20 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients and preparing the filling to be poured into the crust.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time for the pie is around 45-50 minutes, depending on your oven. In total, the entire process from prep to baking will take about 1 hour and 10 minutes. This recipe yields one 9-inch pie, perfect for serving 8 people.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by measuring out your ingredients for the pie crust. In a large mixing bowl, combine your flour and a pinch of salt. Next, cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork it. Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Roll Out the Dough

After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit your pie dish. The thickness should be about ¼ inch. Gently place the rolled-out dough into the pie dish, pressing it into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges and refrigerate while you prepare the filling.

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the frozen sour cherries and any other berries you wish to include. Add sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Gently mix until the fruit is well coated and let it sit for a few minutes.

Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Remove the pie crust from the refrigerator and pour the berry filling into the crust, spreading it evenly. If you desire, cut strips of dough to create a lattice top or simply place a whole sheet over the filling, making slits for steam to escape. Brush the crust with an egg wash for a golden finish.

Bake the Pie

Bake the pie in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack. This cooling period helps the filling set properly. Serve the pie warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

Ingredient Quality

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh or well-frozen cherries and berries make a significant difference in taste.

Adjusting Sweetness

Depending on the sourness of the cherries and your personal preference, adjust the sugar amount in the filling accordingly.

Make Ahead

You can prepare the pie crust in advance and keep it refrigerated or frozen. The assembled pie can also be made and frozen before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the pie with vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream to complement the tartness of the cherries.

Cook techniques

Making a Pie Crust

To achieve a flaky and tender pie crust, use cold butter and handle the dough minimally. Chill the dough before rolling it out to maintain its structure.

Blind Baking

Blind baking involves pre-baking the crust to prevent sogginess. Use baking weights or dried beans to keep the crust from bubbling up.

Flavoring the Filling

Enhance the cherry filling by balancing the tartness with sugar and adding a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness.

Assembling the Pie

Layer the filling evenly in the pre-baked crust, and ensure the top crust is sealed properly to lock in moisture and flavor.

Baking the Pie

Bake until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. This typically requires a hot oven to create the perfect texture.

Cooling and Serving

Let the pie cool completely before slicing. This helps set the filling and makes for cleaner slices.

FAQ

Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but you may need to adjust the sugar depending on their sweetness.

How do I store leftover pie?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Can I make the pie crust ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pie crust in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it.

What can I substitute for sugar in the filling?

You can use honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener instead of granulated sugar.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is visibly bubbling.

Conclusion

Indulging in a frozen sour cherry berry pie is a delightful way to enjoy the rich flavors of seasonal fruits. The combination of tart cherries and sweet berries not only provides a refreshing treat but also highlights the versatility of these ingredients in creating desserts that are both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether served at a summer gathering or as a cozy family dessert, this pie is sure to impress.

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