Description
This Old Fashioned Cherry Pie Filling recipe offers a luscious and slightly tart compote made from fresh sour cherries, perfectly thickened with cornstarch and sweetened with sugar. Ideal for topping pies, cakes, or enjoying as a dessert on its own, this filling is simple to make on the stovetop in under 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Pie Filling Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups fresh sour cherries, pitted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 3 tbsp water
Instructions
- Prepare the Slurry: In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and water, stirring thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. This slurry will help thicken the cherry filling.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the cornstarch slurry into a medium-sized pot. Add the pitted sour cherries, granulated sugar, and fresh lemon juice, mixing all ingredients together.
- Cook the Filling: Cover the pot and cook over medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking. The filling is ready once the juices have thickened into a slightly translucent, syrupy consistency.
Notes
- Make sure to pit the cherries to avoid hard bits in the filling.
- Adjust the sugar quantity depending on the tartness of your cherries and your preferred sweetness level.
- This filling can be used immediately or cooled and stored in the refrigerator for several days.
- For a smoother filling, mash some cherries gently after cooking.
