When it comes to desserts, few things can rival the timeless appeal of a freshly baked pie. The warm, flaky crust, filled with sweet, juicy fruits, is a treat for the senses. And if you've ever found yourself torn between the classic apple pie and the tart cherry pie, we have the perfect solution for you. This innovative fruit pie recipe combines the best of both worlds, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Let's start with the crust. A good pie crust is the foundation of any great pie. You can either make your own from scratch or use a pre - made crust for convenience. If you're making it from scratch, you'll need all - purpose flour, unsalted butter, salt, and ice water. Begin by cutting the cold butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Then, gradually add the ice water, stirring until the dough comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least an hour. This will make the dough easier to roll out and give it a flakier texture.
Now, let's move on to the filling. For the apples, choose a variety that holds its shape well when baked, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Place them in a large bowl. Next, pit and halve the cherries. You can use either fresh or frozen cherries, but make sure to thaw the frozen ones and drain any excess liquid. Add the cherries to the bowl with the apples.
To sweeten the filling, you'll need granulated sugar, brown sugar, and a touch of lemon juice. The lemon juice not only adds a bright, citrusy flavor but also helps prevent the apples from browning. Sprinkle the sugars and lemon juice over the fruits and toss gently to combine. Then, add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon, a half - teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a tablespoon of cornstarch. The spices will enhance the flavor of the fruits, while the cornstarch will help thicken the filling as it bakes.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the chilled pie dough on a lightly floured surface and place it in a 9 - inch pie plate. Pour the fruit filling into the crust, spreading it out evenly. If you have any extra dough, you can cut it into strips and create a lattice top for the pie. This not only looks beautiful but also allows steam to escape during baking.
Brush the top of the pie with an egg wash (a beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water) to give it a golden, shiny crust. Place the pie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to catch any drips. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 40 - 45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Once the pie is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least an hour. This will allow the filling to set and make the pie easier to slice. Serve the pie warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The combination of the warm, fruity pie and the cold, creamy ice cream is simply divine.
This apple - cherry pie is not only delicious but also a great way to use up seasonal fruits. Whether you're making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or just for yourself, it's sure to be a hit. So, the next time you're faced with the dilemma of choosing between apple pie and cherry pie, don't worry. Just make this amazing dual - fruit pie and enjoy the best of both flavors.
You can also experiment with different variations of this recipe. For example, you can add a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the filling for an extra crunch. Or, you can use different types of spices, like cloves or allspice, to give the pie a unique flavor. The possibilities are endless, and you're only limited by your imagination.
In conclusion, this apple - cherry pie is a must - try dessert for any pie lover. It combines the comforting flavors of apple and cherry in a single, mouth - watering package. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get baking. Your taste buds will thank you!
