Crispy pies with cherries and sour cherries

Crispy Cherry and Sour Cherry Pies: A Tradition-Covered Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35-55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Servings: 2 medium pies

Who doesn't love a fruit pie? This recipe for crispy cherry and sour cherry pies is not just a treat but also a new way to celebrate summer. Using seasonal fruits, these pies are perfect for a dessert, a snack, or even for a party. Each bite is an explosion of flavor, and the crispy crust perfectly frames the juicy filling.

The history of pies is long and fascinating. These delicacies have been made throughout the centuries in many cultures, each with its unique variation. Fruit pies have been an ingenious way to preserve the harvest, and the combination of cherries and sour cherries is a perfect example of harmony between sweet and tart.

Ingredients

For the cherry pie:
- 500 g fresh pitted cherries
- 2-3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon cherry liqueur (for extra flavor)

For the sour cherry pie:
- 500 g fresh pitted sour cherries
- 2-3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon cherry liqueur

For the dough:
- 400 g flour
- 200 g cold butter or margarine (Rama), cut into cubes
- 50 g powdered sugar
- 2 egg yolks + 1 egg yolk for brushing
- 2-3 tablespoons coarse sugar (for decoration)

Procedure

Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by preparing the filling for the pies. In a bowl, mix the pitted cherries and sour cherries with sugar and cherry liqueur. This mixture will release delicious juices during baking, so don’t hesitate to embrace this flavor!

Step 2: Prepare the Dough
1. In a large bowl, sift the flour to aerate its texture. Add the cold butter or margarine cubes and mix with the flour using your fingers or a pastry cutter until you get a crumbly mixture.
2. Next, add the powdered sugar and egg yolks. Mix everything until you get a smooth dough. If necessary, add a tablespoon of cold water to help the dough come together.
3. Once the dough is well combined, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 20 minutes to cool. This step is essential for achieving a crispy crust.

Step 3: Bake the Pies
1. Preheat the oven to 190°C. This will ensure even baking and a perfectly golden crust.
2. Once the dough has cooled, divide it into four equal parts. Roll out each part on a well-floured surface so that it is large enough to cover your pie dishes.
3. Place two of the larger pieces of dough in the bottom of the dishes, letting the edges hang over slightly.
4. Fill each pie with the cherry and sour cherry mixture, being careful not to overfill to avoid spills.
5. Cover each pie with the other two pieces of dough, pressing the edges to seal the filling. Make a few decorative cuts on top to allow steam to escape during baking.
6. Brush the pies with the egg yolk for a golden and shiny crust. Sprinkle the coarse sugar on top for added texture and sweetness.
7. Bake the pies in the preheated oven for 35-55 minutes or until the crust becomes crispy and golden.

Step 4: Serving
Once the pies are ready, let them rest for 10 minutes before cutting. This time will allow them to set and make it easier to slice each piece. These pies are delicious served warm but also cold, alongside vanilla ice cream or a vanilla sauce to add a creamy touch.

Tips and Variations
- Alternative Fruits: If you don’t have fresh cherries or sour cherries, you can experiment with other seasonal fruits like peaches or plums. Be sure to adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the chosen fruits.
- Flavor Additions: You can add spices like cinnamon or vanilla to the filling mixture to enhance the flavors.
- Gluten-Free Dough: For a gluten-free version, you can use almond flour or a combination of gluten-free flour, adjusting the liquid amount as needed.

Nutritional Benefits
Cherries and sour cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making them excellent for heart health and reducing inflammation. These fruits are also a good source of fiber, contributing to healthy digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen fruits?
Yes, frozen fruits can be used, but you will need to let them thaw and drain well to remove excess water.

2. How can I store the pies?
The pies can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days, covered in an airtight container. They can be frozen for longer storage.

3. Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! The dough can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or frozen for later use.

Conclusion
These crispy cherry and sour cherry pies are an excellent choice to celebrate the sweetness of summer. With each bite, you will enjoy a perfect combination of flavors and textures, and the crispy crust will make each slice a true delight. Don’t forget to enjoy the cooking process and share these delicious pies with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: Quantity: 2 medium pies For cherry pie 500 g fresh cherries, pitted 2-3 tablespoons sugar 1 tablespoon cherry liqueur For sour cherry pie 500 g fresh sour cherries, pitted 2-3 tablespoons sugar 1 tablespoon cherry liqueur For the dough 400 g flour 200 g cold butter or Rama margarine, cut into cubes 50 g powdered sugar 2 egg yolks + 1 yolk for brushing 2-3 tablespoons coarse sugar