If you love sweet, tart flavors, you’ll adore this Cherry Almond Crumble Pie. This simple and delicious recipe combines fresh cherries and a nutty almond flavor, all topped with a crispy crumble. Your friends and family will be asking for seconds! I’ll guide you through every step, from ingredients to baking and storing. Let’s get started on this delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet cherries perfectly complement the nutty almond flavor, creating a delightful balance in every bite.
- Easy to Make: This pie comes together quickly, making it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced bakers looking for a delicious dessert.
- Customizable Ingredients: You can easily substitute different fruits or nuts, allowing for seasonal variations and personal touches.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it's a summer picnic or a cozy winter gathering, this pie is sure to impress guests and family alike.
Ingredients
Fresh Ingredients for Filling
You need fresh cherries to make this pie special. Use 2 cups of pitted and halved cherries. The cherries give the pie a sweet and tangy flavor. You will also add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and the zest of one lemon. This adds brightness to the filling and enhances the cherry taste.
Dry Ingredients for Crust
For the crust, gather the dry ingredients. Combine 1 cup of almond flour and 1 cup of all-purpose flour. You will also need 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1/4 cup of brown sugar for sweetness. Add 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for flavor. The flour mix gives the crust a perfect texture.
Essential Flavor Enhancers
Flavor counts! You will add 1 teaspoon of almond extract and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the crust. These extracts give the pie its rich taste. Don’t forget 1/2 cup of rolled oats for the crumble topping. The oats add crunch and make it even more delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Cherry Filling
Start by washing and pitting the cherries. You need two cups of fresh cherries. Slice them in half. In a bowl, mix the cherries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, and cinnamon. Toss them gently. This step helps the cherries soak up the flavors. Let this sit for a few minutes. The cherries will release their juices, making the filling nice and sweet.
Making the Crust
Grab another bowl for the crust. Combine almond flour, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix them well. Then, take softened butter and cut it into the flour mixture. You can use a pastry cutter or your fingers. Keep mixing until it looks like coarse crumbs. Next, stir in almond extract and vanilla extract. This adds great flavor to the crust.
Assembling and Baking the Pie
Now, it’s time to build your pie. Take half of the crust mixture and press it into a greased pie dish. Make this layer even. Pour the cherry filling over this base. Then, for the crumble topping, add rolled oats to the remaining crust mixture. Mix it well and sprinkle it over the cherries.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pie for 35-40 minutes. Look for a golden brown crumble and bubbly cherries. When done, take the pie out and let it cool for 15 minutes. This step makes cutting easier. Enjoy your cherry almond crumble pie!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Crumble Texture
To get the best crumble, focus on the butter. Use softened, but not melted, butter. Cut it into the dry mix until you see small lumps. This helps create a nice crunchy topping. You want it to look like coarse crumbs. If you want it crunchier, add a bit more rolled oats. They give a great texture and chewiness.
Enhancing Flavor with Extracts
Almond extract and vanilla extract are key to this pie. They boost the overall taste. I recommend using pure extracts for the best flavor. Just one teaspoon of each can make a big difference. If you want a bolder taste, add a bit more almond extract. The almond flavor pairs perfectly with the sweet cherries.
Baking Time and Temperature Adjustments
Baking at 350°F (175°C) works well, but watch your pie closely. If your oven runs hot, check it a bit earlier. The crumble should be golden brown. If the filling bubbles too much, it’s ready. Cover the pie with foil if the top browns too quickly. This keeps the crust from burning while the filling cooks.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Cherries: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh, ripe cherries. They enhance the overall taste of the pie.
- Chill the Butter: Ensure your butter is chilled before incorporating it into the crust mixture. This helps achieve a flakier texture.
- Experiment with Nuts: For added crunch, consider mixing in chopped almonds or walnuts into the crumble topping.
- Let it Cool: Allow the pie to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes serving easier.
Variations
Substituting Cherries with Other Fruits
You can swap cherries for many fruits. Try blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. Each fruit brings a new flavor. Blueberries add a sweet burst. Raspberries give a slight tartness. Peaches add a lovely softness. Keep the same sugar and cornstarch amounts in the filling. This way, you keep the texture right.
Different Toppings Options
You can get creative with toppings. Instead of just oats, try nuts. Chopped walnuts or pecans add crunch. You can also add shredded coconut for a tropical twist. For a sweeter topping, sprinkle brown sugar on top. A dash of cinnamon enhances the flavor too. Mix and match to suit your taste.
Gluten-Free Alternatives
To make this pie gluten-free, use only almond flour. You can replace all-purpose flour with more almond flour. This keeps the pie tasty and gluten-free. Also, check your oats. Make sure they are labeled gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy your Cherry Almond Crumble Pie!
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Leftovers
To keep your Cherry Almond Crumble Pie fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container or cover the pie with plastic wrap. This helps keep the pie moist. It will last for about three days in the fridge. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing. If you don’t have an airtight container, use aluminum foil to cover it.
Freezing Tips for Cherry Almond Crumble Pie
You can freeze the pie for longer storage. Wrap individual slices or the whole pie in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. This keeps the flavors fresh and tasty.
Reheating Instructions
To enjoy your Cherry Almond Crumble Pie again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie or slices on a baking sheet. Warm it in the oven for about 15 to 20 minutes. This gives it a nice, warm texture. You can also use a microwave if you want a quicker option. Heat each slice for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Just be careful not to overheat it!
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw them first. Drain any extra juice so the pie doesn’t get soggy. Frozen cherries work well and taste great, too. They still have that sweet, tart flavor you want in a pie.
How can I make the pie crust ahead of time?
You can make the pie crust a day before. Mix the dry ingredients and cut in the butter. Then, store it in the fridge. When you're ready, just shape it in the pie dish. It saves time on baking day and keeps it fresh.
What can I serve with Cherry Almond Crumble Pie?
This pie pairs well with vanilla ice cream. The creaminess complements the tart cherries. You can also serve it with whipped cream for added sweetness. For a crunchy touch, sprinkle some chopped almonds on top. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature!
You learned about making a tasty cherry almond crumble pie. We covered fresh and dry ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You now have ideas for variations, storage, and answers to FAQs.
With these insights, you can create a pie that impresses everyone. Enjoy baking and sharing your sweet creation!
