If you’re searching for a dessert that perfectly blends tart cherries with a silky, smooth custard nestled in a buttery crust, look no further than this German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe. It’s a delightful combination that offers a luscious, creamy filling with bursts of fruity brightness, making it an irresistible treat for any season. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or simply indulging yourself, this pie promises to become a treasured favorite, with every bite showcasing the wonderful harmony of textures and flavors that only a true German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe can deliver.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating a truly memorable German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe. Each component is thoughtfully selected to bring balance in flavor, texture, and color, making this pie both delicious and visually inviting.
- Fresh or frozen cherries (1 1/2 cups): Pitted cherries provide that signature tartness and juicy burst that the custard lovingly embraces.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the cherries, enhancing their natural flavor and cutting through the richness of the custard.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Helps thicken the cherry filling, ensuring the pie slices beautifully without becoming runny.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the custard, balancing the tart cherries perfectly.
- Heavy cream (1 1/2 cups): Creates a luxuriously creamy texture for the custard base.
- Large eggs (2): Provide structure and richness to the custard, helping it set smoothly.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, comforting note that elevates the flavors all around.
- Pre-made or homemade pie crust (1): Offers that buttery, crisp foundation every pie needs for contrast and crunch.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Used to grease the pie pan, it also adds a subtle richness to the crust edges.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the sweetness and balances the custard’s flavor.
How to Make German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Oven and Pie Crust
Begin by heating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). While it warms, prepare your pie crust by gently placing it in your pie pan and greasing the edges with butter—this simple step ensures a wonderfully golden and non-sticky crust that’s ready to cradle all that delightful filling.
Step 2: Mixing the Cherries
In a medium bowl, lovingly toss the pitted cherries with fresh lemon juice and cornstarch. This trio not only keeps the cherries vibrant but also thickens any juices, so your pie stays perfectly composed after baking.
Step 3: Assembling the Cherry Layer
Spread those luscious cherries evenly across the prepared pie crust, ensuring every slice will offer a generous fruity bite. This layer is the heart of your German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe.
Step 4: Preparing the Custard Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until silky smooth. This custard mixture is what turns the pie into the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth dream it’s destined to be.
Step 5: Combining Custard and Cherries
Gently pour the custard mixture over the cherries in the crust, making sure the fruit is completely submerged. This helps the custard bake evenly around the cherries, resulting in that beautiful custard texture characteristic of this German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe.
Step 6: Baking the Pie
Place the pie in the oven and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes. Look for a lightly golden top and a custard that feels set but still tender in the center – the true sign your pie is perfectly baked and ready to delight.
Step 7: Cooling and Setting
Patience is a virtue, especially here. Let the pie cool completely before slicing, allowing the custard to firm up to the ideal texture—this finishing touch guarantees every piece will hold beautifully on the plate.
How to Serve German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple or elevate it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A sprinkle of toasted almonds adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor contrast, turning each bite into a little celebration.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce to enhance the creamy custard’s richness. Fresh berries on the side can add an extra fruity freshness, making your dessert plate look as good as it tastes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual slices with a fresh sprig of mint or edible flowers for an elegant touch. For gatherings, consider slicing into mini tart-sized portions to let guests savor the German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe in perfect, shareable bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pie covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep delicious and fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this comforting treat later without losing any of its wonderful custardy charm.
Freezing
While this pie can be frozen, it’s best to do so before baking. Wrap the assembled pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake it directly from frozen, adding extra baking time to ensure the custard sets perfectly.
Reheating
To warm slices, gently reheat in a low-temperature oven around 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes. Avoid the microwave, which can make the custard rubbery and less enjoyable. Slow, gentle heating preserves that delightful creamy texture you love from the German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use canned cherries instead of fresh or frozen?
While fresh or frozen cherries offer the best texture and flavor, canned cherries can work in a pinch. Be sure to drain them well and reduce added sugar to prevent the pie from becoming too sweet.
Is it necessary to use a pre-made pie crust?
Not at all! Making your own crust can add a lovely homemade touch, but a quality pre-made crust is a convenient and tasty shortcut that still yields amazing results.
Can this pie be made dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer, and use a dairy-free pie crust and butter alternative. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
How do I know when the custard is fully baked?
The custard is done when the top is lightly golden, and the center feels slightly firm to the touch but still has a slight jiggle—similar to a perfectly baked flan.
Can I make this pie in advance for a party?
Absolutely! This pie can be assembled and baked a day ahead, then chilled overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe that makes it a standout dessert, whether for everyday moments or special occasions. Its comforting custard paired with juicy cherries and a flaky crust is sure to win hearts and become a cherished tradition in your kitchen. Give it a try and savor the delightful harmony of flavors and textures that only this pie can offer!
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German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Description
This German Cherry Cake, also known as Cherry Custard Pie, is a delightful dessert combining fresh or frozen cherries with a rich, creamy custard baked in a buttery pie crust. With a subtle balance of tartness from the cherries and sweetness from the custard, this pie is perfect for any occasion and easy to prepare in under an hour.
Ingredients
Fruit Filling
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Custard
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Crust and Finishing
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for even baking.
- Prepare the pie crust: Place the pre-made pie crust into a pie pan. Lightly grease the edges with butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Prepare the cherry filling: In a medium bowl, mix the pitted cherries with lemon juice and cornstarch to coat them evenly, which helps thicken the filling during baking. Spread this cherry mixture uniformly over the pie crust.
- Make the custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the custard mixture over the cherries in the crust, making sure the cherries are fully submerged under the custard.
- Bake the pie: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Bake until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden. The center should feel slightly firm but not hard to the touch.
- Cool before serving: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling helps the custard set fully for easier slicing and better texture.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh cherries in season; frozen cherries work well but should be thawed and drained.
- The cornstarch helps to thicken the cherry juices, preventing the pie from becoming soggy.
- You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon or almond extract for added flavor variations.
- If you prefer a homemade crust, blind bake it slightly to avoid a soggy bottom.
- Allowing the pie to cool fully before slicing improves the custard’s firmness and slicing ease.
