Description
This cherry filling is perfect for pies and desserts, made with fresh or frozen cherries and simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups cherries, pitted (fresh or frozen)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- ¼ cup water (or cherry juice)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- PREP THE CHERRIES: Wash and pit the cherries if using fresh. If using frozen cherries, measure out 4 cups and set aside without thawing.
- MIX THE THICKENER: In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt to eliminate lumps before cooking.
- COOK THE FILLING: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine cherries, lemon juice, and water. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and continue stirring until evenly distributed.
- SIMMER UNTIL THICKENED: Cook the mixture, stirring often, until it begins to bubble. Continue simmering for 5–7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- ADD FINAL FLAVORS: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the almond extract. Let the filling cool slightly to allow it to thicken further.
- USE OR STORE: Use immediately for pies or other desserts, or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one week.
Notes
- This filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
- Great for both sweet and tart pies.
- Adjust the sweetness according to the tartness of the cherries used.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg