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Thick and Juicy Homemade Cherry Pie Filling From Scratch

A spoonful of thick, glossy cherry pie filling being lifted from a plate of pie, showcasing the rich color of the cherry pie filling.
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Make the best homemade cherry pie filling using fresh or frozen cherries. This easy recipe creates a thick, juicy filling perfect for pies or as a versatile dessert topping.

Ingredients

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  • 4 cups fresh or frozen pitted sweet or tart cherries
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste based on cherry sweetness)
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup cold water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. If using frozen cherries, do not thaw them first. If using fresh cherries, pit them.
  2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch until combined.
  3. Stir in the cold water until the mixture is smooth and there are no lumps.
  4. Add the cherries, lemon juice, and salt to the saucepan.
  5. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly as the mixture heats up.
  6. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens significantly and begins to bubble. This usually takes 5 to 8 minutes.
  7. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly. The filling should coat the back of a spoon.
  8. Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the almond extract, if using.
  9. Allow the cherry pie filling to cool completely before using it in a pie or storing it. Cooling helps the filling set to its final thick consistency.

Notes

  • For a canning recipe, follow tested water bath canning procedures for high-acid foods.
  • If you prefer a slightly tarter flavor, use tart cherries and increase the sugar slightly.
  • This filling works well as a topping for cheesecake, ice cream, pancakes, or waffles.
  • If you use canned cherries, drain them first and reduce the added sugar by half a cup.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishcraze.com/cherry-pie-filling-from-scratch-recipe/