Cherry pie is a classic dessert that combines a flaky, buttery crust with a sweet-tart cherry filling. Ina Garten’s version takes this beloved dish to a whole new level by focusing on simplicity and using high-quality ingredients. Perfect for any occasion, this pie is sure to impress.

What is Ina Garten Cherry Pie?

Ina Garten’s Cherry Pie is a traditional double-crust pie filled with juicy cherries, sugar, and a hint of lemon for brightness. The golden, flaky crust perfectly complements the sweet-tart filling, making it a timeless dessert that’s both elegant and comforting.

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Reasons to Try Ina Garten Cherry Pie

Rich, fruity flavor: The cherries provide a perfectly balanced filling.
Flaky homemade crust: A buttery crust that melts in your mouth.
Elegant and simple: Great for special occasions or casual gatherings.
Seasonal versatility: Perfect for fresh summer cherries or frozen ones year-round.
Make-ahead friendly: This can be baked in advance for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Cherry Pie

For the crust:

All-purpose flour: 2 1/2 cups.
Sugar: 1 tablespoon.
Salt: 1 teaspoon.
Unsalted butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), cold and cubed.
Ice water: 6–8 tablespoons.

For the filling:

Cherries: 5 cups, pitted (fresh or frozen, thawed).
Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup.
Cornstarch: 3 tablespoons.
Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon.
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon.
Salt: A pinch.

For assembly:

Egg wash: 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water.
Sugar: For sprinkling (optional).

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Cherry Pie

Step 1: Make the crust

In a food processor, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Pulse to mix.
Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough just comes together.
Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare the filling

In a large bowl, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well and let sit for 15–20 minutes to allow the juices to develop.

Step 3: Roll out the dough

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place the dough into the dish and trim the edges, leaving a slight overhang.
Roll out the second disc of dough for the top crust.

Step 4: Assemble the pie

Pour the cherry filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
Place the second crust over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Cut small slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
Brush the top crust with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar, if desired.

Step 5: Bake the pie

Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to allow the filling to set.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Cherry Pie

Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing that enhances the flavors.
Whipped cream: Adds a light, creamy contrast to the tart filling.
Coffee or tea: Complements the pie’s sweetness perfectly.
Fresh berries: Serve alongside for a vibrant presentation.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Cherry Pie

Use fresh cherries if possible: They provide the best flavor and texture. Frozen cherries are a great alternative when fresh aren’t available.
Chill the crust: Cold dough ensures a flaky and tender crust.
Adjust sugar: Taste the cherries before adding sugar to account for their natural sweetness.
Prevent soggy crusts: Bake the pie on the lower oven rack to ensure the bottom crust is fully cooked.
Cool before slicing: Letting the pie cool completely prevents the filling from running.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Cherry Pie

Almond twist: Add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract to the filling for a subtle nutty flavor.
Crumble topping: Replace the top crust with a streusel for a different texture.
Mini pies: Use the dough and filling to make individual hand pies or tarts.
Chocolate addition: Drizzle melted chocolate over the pie for an indulgent twist.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Cherry Pie

Room temperature: Store the pie covered for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days. Let the pie come to room temperature before serving.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries for cherry pie?

Yes, frozen cherries work well for cherry pie. Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using them to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.

How do you keep cherry pie crust from getting soggy?

To prevent a soggy crust, preheat the oven and bake the pie on the lower rack. You can also brush the bottom crust with egg wash before adding the filling to create a barrier.

What is the best thickener for cherry pie filling?

Cornstarch is the best thickener for cherry pie filling as it creates a smooth, glossy texture. You can also use tapioca starch or flour as alternatives.

How long should cherry pie cool before slicing?

Let cherry pie cool for at least 2–3 hours after baking. This allows the filling to be set properly and makes slicing easier without the filling spilling out.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Cherry Pie is a timeless dessert that captures the essence of sweet and tart flavors in a buttery, flaky crust. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this pie is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and savor the delicious simplicity of this classic recipe!