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There is something utterly magical about a homemade fruit pie, especially when it involves the perfect balance of sweet and tart. This Sour Cherry Pie with Flaky Lattice Crust Recipe nails that harmony with juicy, tangy sour cherries nestled inside a buttery, tender crust woven into a stunning lattice pattern. It’s a classic dessert that feels both nostalgic and special, ideal for sharing with loved ones any time of the year. From the first bite, you’ll taste the care and joy baked into every slice.

A white scalloped pie plate holds a partially sliced cherry pie with a golden brown lattice crust on top. The crust is thick with crimped edges, revealing a deep red cherry filling beneath with visible fruit pieces. The pie sits on a rustic wooden surface with a soft pink cloth on the upper left side. To the top right, a white bowl is full of fresh red cherries with stems. Below the bowl are two silver forks placed parallel on the white marbled surface. A white doily peeks in at the bottom right corner. The scene is lit softly to highlight the textures and colors of the pie and cherries. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful pie, and the simplicity of each component is what makes the magic happen. Every item plays a role in building the texture, flavor, and irresistible aroma that defines this northern sweet treat.

300 grams all-purpose flour: The foundation for your flaky crust, providing structure and tenderness.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavor without overpowering the cherry filling.
285 grams unsalted butter (chilled, cubed): The secret to that melt-in-your-mouth flakiness in the crust.
¼ to ½ cup ice water: Keeps the dough cold and works as a binder without activating too much gluten.
Egg wash (one egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water): Adds a gorgeous golden sheen and helps the sugar crystals stick to the crust.
1 kg sour cherries (pitted): The star of the show, providing tartness and juicy texture.
200 grams granulated sugar: Balances the cherry tartness, sweeten just right.
1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens the filling with fresh acidity.
25 grams cornstarch: Thickens the filling so it sets beautifully and isn’t runny.
¼ teaspoon almond extract: Delivers a subtle nutty depth that complements the cherries wonderfully.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the flavors.
14 grams unsalted butter (cubed): Dotted atop the filling for pockets of rich flavor.
1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Sprinkled on top for a crunchy, caramelized finish.

How to Make Sour Cherry Pie with Flaky Lattice Crust Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the flaky crust

Start by combining the flour, sugar, and salt in a food processor and pulse to mix. Add the cold butter cubes and pulse until the mixture looks like pea-sized crumbs. Slowly drizzle in the ice water, pulsing just enough to bring the dough together without overworking it. Transfer to a floured surface, form into a ball, divide into two disks, and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least an hour to let the dough rest and chill, which is key to achieving that perfect flakiness.

Step 2: Cook the cherry filling

Place your pitted sour cherries, sugar, and lemon juice into a saucepan over medium heat. Let the cherries simmer until they soften and start releasing their vibrant juices, infusing the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. Mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry, then stir it in to thicken the mixture. Once thickened, remove from heat and fold in the almond and vanilla extracts. Let this cooling process ensure the filling firms up just right before pie assembly.

Step 3: Roll out the dough and assemble

Preheat your oven to 425ºF. On a floured surface, roll one disk into a 12-inch circle and carefully press it into a 9-inch pie pan. Pour the cooled cherry filling evenly, dot with butter cubes for extra richness. Roll out the second dough disk, cut ten evenly sized strips, and weave a lattice over the pie. Trim the edges and crimp or flute to seal.

Step 4: Bake to golden perfection

Brush the lattice crust with egg wash and sprinkle sugar on top for crunch and shine. Bake at 425ºF for 15 minutes to set the crust, then reduce the temperature to 375ºF. Continue baking for 45-60 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling bubbles with joy. Protect the crust edges if they brown too fast with foil or a shield. Let it cool slightly to enjoy warm or fully cool for easier slicing.

How to Serve Sour Cherry Pie with Flaky Lattice Crust Recipe

A slice of cherry pie sits on a white plate with a detailed rim pattern. The pie has several layers: the bottom and sides are a golden-brown crust, filled with bright red cherry filling that looks juicy and slightly thick. The top crust is golden with thin strips showing the cherry filling underneath. On top of the slice, there is a dollop of white whipped cream and a bright red cherry with a green stem resting on the cream. In the background, a white bowl filled with dark cherries and a red pie dish with more pie can be seen, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top takes this pie from delicious to downright dreamy. A sprinkle of toasted almonds or a dusting of powdered sugar also adds a lovely finishing touch and a hint of texture and sweetness.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs beautifully with a simple cup of black coffee or a spicy chai tea to balance the sweet and tart notes. If you want to go all out, serve alongside a cheese platter with mild cheeses like Brie or goat cheese for an elegant contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, cut the pie into smaller squares for a grab-and-go dessert or plate slices with a drizzle of homemade cherry sauce or chocolate ganache. Arranged on a rustic wooden board with fresh cherries and mint sprigs makes an irresistible centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover pie slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator. The pie stays fresh and flavorful for up to four days, making it an excellent make-ahead treat for busy weeks or unexpected guests.

Freezing

You can freeze the whole assembled pie before baking or individual leftovers. Wrap well to prevent freezer burn and freeze for up to two months. To bake from frozen, thaw overnight and then bake as directed, adding a bit of extra time if needed to ensure the filling is bubbling.

Reheating

Warm pie slices gently in a 325ºF oven for 10-15 minutes to refresh the crust’s crispness and soften the chilled filling. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy, but in a pinch, short bursts on medium power work, just keep an eye on it.

FAQs

Can I use frozen sour cherries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen sour cherries work well and can simplify the prep. Just thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking to avoid a watery filling.

What if I don’t have a food processor for the crust?

No worries. Use two knives or a pastry cutter to cut the cold butter into the flour and sugar mixture until pea-sized crumbs form, then proceed with adding ice water by hand.

How do I prevent the lattice crust from burning?

Keep an eye on the crust mid-bake, and if it starts browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil or a pie shield to protect it while the filling finishes cooking.

Can I make this pie gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, but you might need to adjust water content and handle the dough gently as gluten-free doughs are more fragile.

How can I make the filling less sweet?

Simply reduce the added sugar by about 25% if you prefer a tarter pie. Since sour cherries are quite tangy, this adjustment helps balance the flavors to your liking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re longing for a dessert that feels both timeless and lovingly crafted, you’re going to adore this Sour Cherry Pie with Flaky Lattice Crust Recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser with its perfect blend of tart fruit and buttery, flaky crust, plus the fun of weaving your own lattice top. Treat yourself and your friends to a homemade slice of happiness—you won’t regret it!

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