Uncover Grandma’s Secret: The Irresistible Cherry Pie Filling You Must Try

Simple Recipe Box

Welcome back to the Simple Recipe Box podcast, where we unravel the magic of home cooking. I'm your host, Ben Harper, and today, we're diving into a family treasure—Grandma’s Secret Cherry Pie Filling. This recipe isn’t just about cherries; it's about creating moments that last a lifetime.

Let’s start with what you’ll need. Grab 2 cups of fresh or frozen cherries—yes, both work beautifully! You’ll also need 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, a tablespoon of lemon juice, a quarter teaspoon of salt, a quarter cup of water, and a tablespoon of butter. These simple ingredients blend to create something spectacular.

Now, onto the tools. You’ll need a medium saucepan, a wooden spoon or spatula, and some basic measuring cups and spoons. That’s it! Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious.

Here’s how you make it: Begin by combining the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt in your saucepan. Let this sit for about 15 minutes; this is key as it allows the cherries to release their natural juices, enhancing the overall flavor. Next, add your water and stir everything together.

Now, heat your saucepan over medium heat. Keep stirring until the mixture boils—this activates the cornstarch which thickens your filling. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes. You want to stir occasionally until the mixture thickens and the cherries soften.

The final touch? Remove from the heat and stir in that tablespoon of butter until it’s completely melted. This not only enriches the flavor but also gives your filling a gorgeous, glossy finish.

Allow the filling to cool to room temperature before using it in your pie. This is crucial as it helps set the filling, making your pie easier to slice and serve.

But what if you want to spice things up? Here’s where you can get creative. Add a dash of almond extract or a splash of cherry liqueur for a delightful twist. Or, stir in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy note that complements the cherries perfectly.

And there you have it, folks—Grandma’s secret cherry pie filling, ready to steal the show at any gathering. Whether you spoon it into a flaky pie crust or dollop it over vanilla ice cream, this filling is sure to bring smiles all around.

Remember, the beauty of cooking lies in the simplicity and love you pour into it. So, take this recipe, make it your own, and continue sharing the joy of delicious, homemade treats.

Thanks for tuning in to the Simple Recipe Box podcast. Join me next time for more recipes, tips, and food stories. Until then, happy baking and keep savoring the good moments.

For the full recipe, check out Grandma’s Secret Cherry Pie Filling.