Cherry Almond Crumble Pie with Oat Topping
Summer brings a wealth of flavors and moods that inspire us to gather around the table, especially when it comes to dessert. One delightful creation is a Cherry Almond Crumble Pie, blending sweet cherries with a hint of almond flavor and topped with a delicious Oat Topping. This pie recipe stands out as a perfect celebration of seasonal produce, highlighting the beloved cherry at its peak ripeness.
Summer desserts play a crucial role in family gatherings and picnics. Warm evenings call for refreshing treats that can balance warmth and sweetness. Preparing homemade pies creates memorable experiences. The aroma of baking fills the air, promising a delicious bite of joy. In a world where store-bought options are plentiful, nothing beats the satisfaction of crafting your fruit pie from scratch. Making it yourself allows you to tailor the flavors, control the sweetness, and connect with the cooking process.
There’s something special about fruit pies. They bring together vibrant colors, enticing scents, and assorted textures. A cherry pie, for example, showcases deep red fruit nestled in a flaky crust. Meanwhile, the addition of almond enhances its richness, making each slice even more satisfying. Topped with a crumble that combines oats, butter, and sugar, this dessert not only tastes great but also offers a wonderful crunch. It is an easy pie recipe that anyone can master, making it a favorite for bakers of all skill levels.
Cherry Almond Crumble Pie: An Overview
This delicious dessert combines the sweet-tart flavor of cherries with a hint of almond flavor, creating a delightful balance. The crumble topping adds texture, making each bite satisfying. You can expect a warm, comforting experience with every slice of this homemade pie.
Key Ingredients
Cherries play a central role in this pie recipe. They bring a burst of flavor that many people adore. Almond flavor enhances the overall taste, providing a lovely nutty backdrop. Oats are crucial for the crumble topping, adding a chewiness that blends beautifully with the fruit filling.
Variations and Substitutes
There are numerous variations you can explore. For instance, using different fruits can create a unique flavor profile. Consider swapping cherries for blueberries or peaches for a different twist. Almond extract can also be adjusted based on personal taste; less can be used for a subtler flavor.
If you are in need of gluten-free options, oats can be replaced with almond flour or a blend of gluten-free flours. This easy pie recipe is adaptable to various dietary preferences. Bringing in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg might heighten the pie’s flavor. Each change allows for creativity while still offering that comforting essence of a traditional fruit pie.
Ingredients and Quantities
Making a Cherry Almond Crumble Pie with Oat Topping requires a variety of ingredients. Start by gathering the following items, which will help create this delightful dessert. It offers a balance of flavors and textures. Here’s a detailed list for your easy pie recipe:
For the Pie Crust
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 4 to 6 tablespoons ice water
For the Cherry Filling
- 4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
For the Almond Crumble Topping
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sliced almonds
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
This list makes for a fantastic cherry pie, rich in flavor with hints of almond flavor. Gather these ingredients before starting your baking adventure. Preparing your homemade pie can be a fun summer activity. With these quantities, you can create a fruit pie that stands out at any gathering.
Baking Method
Step-by-step instructions for preparing the pie
Making the pie crust
Start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need flour, butter, sugar, and water. In a large bowl, mix the flour and sugar together. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together. Avoid overmixing. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help the crust become flaky.
After chilling, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface. Aim for a circle larger than your pie dish. Gently transfer the rolled dough into the dish. Trim any excess and crimp the edges for a nice look. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
Preparing the cherry filling
Rinse fresh cherries and remove the pits. This can take some time, but it’s essential for a good pie. Measure out about four cups of pitted cherries into a bowl. Sprinkle sugar over the cherries; this helps bring out their natural sweetness. Add cornstarch and almond flavor for that delightful twist. Mix everything well to coat the cherries evenly. Let the filling sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Creating the almond oat crumble topping
Gather rolled oats, brown sugar, flour, and sliced almonds in a separate bowl. Mix them together to combine. Cut in cold butter until the mixture appears crumbly. You can use your fingers or a pastry cutter for this part. This topping adds texture and complements the cherry filling. Make sure the butter is cold to achieve a nice crumble.
Baking instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the cherry filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Then, sprinkle the almond oat crumble topping generously over the filling. Make sure to cover it well so that all those delicious cherries will be hidden under a crunchy layer.
Bake for about 45-50 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Check it around the 30-minute mark. If the topping is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning. Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving. This summer dessert is best enjoyed warm, but can also be served chilled. Enjoy your homemade pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
When it’s time to serve your Cherry Almond Crumble Pie, consider adding a few simple touches that will elevate the experience. Slice the pie into generous wedges. Serve it warm for a delightful contrast to the cold toppings.
Ideas for Serving Cherry Almond Crumble Pie
Consider placing each slice on a vibrant plate to make it visually appealing. A light dusting of powdered sugar can enhance the look while adding just a hint of sweetness. Another idea is to top each wedge with a sprinkle of sliced almonds for a crunchy texture that complements the crumble topping.
Recommended Ice Cream and Whipped Cream Pairings
Ice cream is a classic match for any fruit pie. Vanilla bean ice cream pairs particularly well, bringing a rich creaminess that balances the tartness of the cherry filling. For those who enjoy a twist of flavor, almond-flavored ice cream can accentuate the almond flavor in the pie recipe. Whipped cream is also an excellent addition. A dollop of fresh whipped cream can create a light and airy feel against the baked fruit.
Best Occasions for This Summer Dessert
This dessert shines at summer gatherings. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a picnic in the park, homemade pie brings joy to any occasion. Birthdays and family reunions are also perfect moments for serving this easy pie recipe. The vibrant colors of the cherries and the golden crumble topping will invite everyone to have a slice. Late-night chat sessions around a fire can become even sweeter with a few slices of this fruit pie.
Wrapping Up the Cherry Almond Experience
Making this delightful dessert is an enjoyable journey. Many people fear baking, thinking it will be complicated. Yet, this pie recipe proves that pie-making can be simple and incredibly satisfying. You will find that each step, from preparing the filling to creating the oat topping, is easy to follow. The best part? The aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is pure bliss.
Everyone should take a moment to try this homemade delight. Baking brings a special kind of joy, especially when you share it with others. Imagine surprising your loved ones with a warm slice of pie, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Sounds tempting, right? It’s an experience worth every minute spent in the kitchen.
Sharing food creates lasting memories. Whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet evening with friends, this cherry almond crumble pie is a perfect addition. Conversations flow easier, laughter becomes louder, and the moment feels more special when you’re enjoying a delicious treat together. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to make a pie that everyone will love.
