Cherry Pie with Pine Nuts: A Step-by-Step Recipe for a Rustic and Nutty Dessert

Cherry Pie with Pine Nuts: A Step-by-Step Recipe for a Rustic and Nutty Dessert

Introduction

Cherry pie with pine nuts is a unique twist on the traditional cherry pie, combining the tartness of juicy cherries with the rich, buttery flavor of pine nuts. This pie is perfect for summer gatherings, holiday dinners, or any occasion that calls for a cozy, homemade dessert. The pine nuts add a delightful crunch and an earthy flavor that complements the cherries beautifully, creating a satisfying balance in each bite. Follow this detailed recipe to make a cherry pie with a warm, golden crust and a burst of flavors that will delight any dessert lover.

Ingredients

To make cherry pie with pine nuts, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup ice-cold water
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Cherry Filling:

• 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted (or frozen cherries, thawed)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness of cherries)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted

For the Pie Assembly:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon raw sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

Ingredient Breakdown and Benefits

1. All-Purpose Flour and Butter (Crust): The flour and cold butter create a flaky, buttery crust that serves as the base for the pie. Keeping the butter cold helps create pockets of air in the dough, resulting in a tender texture.

2. Fresh Cherries: Cherries are naturally sweet and slightly tart, making them perfect for pie fillings. They provide a juicy texture and vibrant color.

3. Pine Nuts: Pine nuts add a nutty, buttery flavor that complements the tart cherries. They also provide a unique texture contrast to the soft filling.

4. Cornstarch: Cornstarch thickens the cherry filling, ensuring it isn’t too runny and holds together when sliced.

5. Egg Wash and Raw Sugar: Brushing the crust with egg wash gives it a golden color, while raw sugar adds a subtle crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pie Crust:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and mix with a pastry cutter or fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add ice-cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to come together. Form the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Cherry Filling:

   • In a large bowl, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Gently toss to coat the cherries evenly. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

3. Roll Out the Dough:

   • Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Roll out one disc of chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Carefully transfer the dough to the pie pan, pressing it into the edges and trimming any excess.

4. Assemble the Pie:

   • Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the bottom of the crust. Pour the cherry filling over the pine nuts, spreading it evenly. Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal.
   • Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape, or create a lattice pattern if desired.

5. Add the Finishing Touches:

   • Brush the top crust with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with raw sugar for a golden, slightly crunchy finish.

6. Bake the Pie:

   • Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly. If the crust begins to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil.

7. Cool and Serve:

   • Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours to set the filling. Serve warm or at room temperature, with or without a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips for Making the Best Cherry Pie with Pine Nuts

1. Use Fresh, Firm Cherries:

   • Fresh cherries hold up better in baking and provide a natural sweetness. If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture.

2. Toast the Pine Nuts:

   • Lightly toast the pine nuts before adding them to the pie to enhance their flavor and give them a satisfying crunch.

3. Chill the Dough:

   • Keeping the dough cold helps maintain a flaky texture. If the dough becomes too soft, refrigerate it again before rolling out.

4. Adjust Sweetness:

   • Adjust the amount of sugar in the filling based on the sweetness of the cherries. Some varieties may need a bit more or less sugar.

Variations of Cherry Pie with Pine Nuts

1. Almond Cherry Pie:

   • Substitute pine nuts with sliced almonds for a nutty, slightly sweet twist.

2. Chocolate Cherry Pie:

   • Add a sprinkle of chocolate chips to the filling for a rich, chocolatey note that complements the cherries.

3. Crumble Topping:

   • Instead of a top crust, use a crumble topping made of flour, butter, sugar, and oats for a rustic touch.

4. Cherry Berry Pie:

   • Combine cherries with blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry filling that’s both colorful and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions for Cherry Pie with Pine Nuts

1. With Ice Cream:

   • Serve warm slices of pie with a scoop of vanilla or almond ice cream for a classic pairing.

2. Garnished with Fresh Mint:

   • Add a small sprig of mint on each slice for a fresh, vibrant garnish.

3. Drizzled with Honey:

   • For extra sweetness, drizzle a little honey over each slice just before serving.

4. With Whipped Cream:

   • Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the tartness of the cherries.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned cherries?

   • Fresh or frozen cherries are ideal, but canned cherries can be used if thoroughly drained and adjusted for sweetness.

2. How long will the pie keep?

   • Store the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

3. Can I make the crust ahead of time?

   • Yes, the dough can be prepared and refrigerated up to 2 days in advance or frozen for up to a month.

4. What if I don’t have pine nuts?

   • Substitute with chopped walnuts, pecans, or sliced almonds for a similar nutty flavor.

5. How do I prevent a soggy crust?

   • Blind-bake the bottom crust for 5-7 minutes before adding the filling, or sprinkle a thin layer of ground nuts on the crust before filling.

Final Thoughts

Cherry pie with pine nuts offers a refreshing take on a beloved classic. With the combination of juicy cherries and buttery pine nuts, this pie is sure to be a hit with its balance of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors. Whether you serve it warm or at room temperature, this pie is perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply as a treat for yourself. Enjoy experimenting with variations and serving options to make this pie your own, and savor every slice of this delightful dessert!