Evans Sour Cherry Pie Filling

This Evans Sour Cherry Pie Filling recipe is a delightful way to capture the taste of fresh cherries in a jar. Perfect for pies, tarts, or even as a topping for your favorite desserts, this homemade filling is both delicious and simple to prepare. By making it yourself, you control the ingredients and can enjoy a truly authentic cherry flavor. It’s ideal for special occasions or everyday treats, enhancing everything from classic pies to breakfast pancakes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Homemade Goodness: Experience the satisfaction of creating your own pie filling, free from preservatives.
• Versatile Use: Use this filling not just for pies but also in pastries, ice cream sundaes, or as a topping for yogurt.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of sour cherries with almond and vanilla extracts creates an unforgettable taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and quick to make.
• Long-lasting: Store your pie filling in the freezer for months, ensuring you always have a tasty treat on hand.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools and equipment to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Sieve
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Canning jar

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium saucepan: Ideal for heating mixtures evenly while allowing you to control consistency.
• Sieve: Essential for separating juice from cherries and preventing lumps in your filling.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring that cornstarch dissolves properly.

Ingredients

This is the cherry pie filling recipe you have been looking for. The one exactly like the pie filling you buy in the can, but better, because you know what is in it, and made it yourself.

Ingredients:
– 4 cups pitted sour cherries fresh and pitted (then frozen and drained)
– 2 cups cherry juice (I got more than 2 cups when my frozen cherries thawed)
– 1/3 cup cornstarch
– 1/3 cup brown sugar
– 1/3 cup white sugar
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 2 teaspoons vanilla

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Evans Sour Cherry Pie Filling

Step 1: Thaw Cherries

Thaw your frozen cherries completely. Once thawed, place them in a sieve over a bowl for a couple of hours. This allows excess juice to separate from the cherries.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

Blend cornstarch with both sugars in a mixing bowl. In a medium saucepan, pour in the cherry juice. Gradually whisk in the dry ingredients as you sprinkle them over the juice using a sieve.

Step 3: Cook Until Thickened

Over medium-low heat, stir the mixture continuously until it thickens and becomes clear. Expect it to reach a very thick consistency.

Step 4: Add Cherries

Once thickened, gently fold in the strained cherries. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes until you see small bubbles forming; this means it’s ready.

Step 5: Remove from Heat

Immediately take the mixture off the heat to prevent overcooking the tender cherries.

Step 6: Add Flavorings

Stir in almond extract and vanilla until well combined.

Step 7: Jar It Up

Pour your filling into a canning jar while it’s still warm.

Step 8: Cool and Store

Let it cool to room temperature before sealing tightly. You can freeze your pie filling or store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 weeks.

Now you’re ready to create mouthwatering desserts with your homemade Evans Sour Cherry Pie Filling! Enjoy!

How to Serve Evans Sour Cherry Pie Filling

Evans Sour Cherry Pie Filling is a versatile treat that can elevate many dishes. Whether you want to enjoy it as a dessert or use it as a topping, there are numerous ways to savor this delightful filling.

On Top of Ice Cream

• Classic Cherry Sundae: Spoon the filling over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert.
• Cherry Float: Mix the filling with soda water for a fizzy cherry float experience.

In Pies and Tarts

• Traditional Sour Cherry Pie: Use the filling in your favorite pie crust to create a traditional cherry pie.
• Mini Tarts: Fill pre-made tart shells with Evans Sour Cherry Pie Filling for individual desserts.

With Breakfast Dishes

• Pancakes or Waffles: Drizzle the filling over pancakes or waffles for a sweet breakfast twist.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer the filling with yogurt and granola for a quick and healthy parfait.

As a Sauce

• Savory Glaze: Use the filling as a glaze over roasted meats like pork or chicken for a unique flavor profile.
• Cheese Board Addition: Serve it alongside creamy cheeses as part of an elegant cheese board.

How to Perfect Evans Sour Cherry Pie Filling

Creating the perfect Evans Sour Cherry Pie Filling takes attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pie filling turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Cherries: For the best flavor, opt for fresh sour cherries when they are in season.
• Strain Thoroughly: Make sure to strain your cherries well to avoid excess juice that can make the filling too runny.
• Control Sweetness: Adjust the sugar levels based on your preference; taste before adding all of it.
• Thicken Properly: Cook until thickened, stirring constantly, to achieve the ideal consistency without overcooking the cherries.
• Add Flavor Enhancers: Include spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for additional depth of flavor if desired.
• Cool Completely Before Storing: Allow cooling at room temperature before transferring to jars; this prevents condensation.

Best Side Dishes for Evans Sour Cherry Pie Filling

Serving Evans Sour Cherry Pie Filling can be complemented beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some great options that pair well with its tangy sweetness.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances the tartness of the cherry filling perfectly.
2. Cream Cheese Pound Cake: The richness of this cake enhances the flavors of the sour cherry pie filling.
3. Shortbread Cookies: Their buttery texture complements the tart cherries, making for an excellent dessert combination.
4. Almond Scones: These scones add a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with cherry.
5. Chocolate Mousse: The richness of chocolate contrasts nicely with the sweet-tart cherries for an indulgent treat.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can offer freshness alongside your cherry-filled dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Evans Sour Cherry Pie Filling can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch for.

• Using fresh cherries without pitting: Always ensure your sour cherries are pitted before starting the recipe. Removing the pits is essential for a smooth filling and enjoyable texture.

• Not draining excess juice: After thawing, it’s crucial to drain the cherries well. Excess juice can make the filling runny and affect its consistency when baked.

• Skipping the cornstarch mixture: Blending the cornstarch with sugars before adding it to the juice helps prevent clumping. Make sure to whisk them together thoroughly to ensure a smooth filling.

• Overcooking the cherries: When combining the cherries with the thickened mixture, stir gently and avoid overcooking. This keeps them tender and flavorful, enhancing your pie’s overall quality.

• Not storing properly: If you plan to freeze or refrigerate your Evans Sour Cherry Pie Filling, use airtight containers. This prevents freezer burn and keeps your filling fresh longer.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.
• Allow cooling completely before sealing.

Freezing Evans Sour Cherry Pie Filling

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Can be frozen for up to 6 months; just remember to thaw before use.

Reheating Evans Sour Cherry Pie Filling

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place filling in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.

• Microwave: Transfer filling to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring in between.

• Stovetop: Pour filling into a saucepan over low heat. Stir frequently until heated through, ensuring it doesn’t stick or burn.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I store Evans Sour Cherry Pie Filling?

You can store this pie filling in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks or freeze it for up to 6 months if stored properly in airtight containers.

Can I use other types of cherries?

While this recipe focuses on sour cherries, feel free to experiment with sweet cherries or even mixed berries for different flavor profiles.

What is the best way to use Evans Sour Cherry Pie Filling?

This versatile filling is perfect not only for pies but also as a topping for ice cream, pancakes, or yogurt. Its tartness adds something special!

Can I adjust the sweetness of the pie filling?

Absolutely! You can adjust both brown and white sugar according to your taste preferences. Just keep in mind that changing sugar levels may slightly affect consistency.

How do I know when my filling has thickened?

The filling should become clear and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon as you stir it on medium-low heat. It will have a glossy look once ready.

Final Thoughts

Evans Sour Cherry Pie Filling offers a delightful blend of tartness and sweetness that elevates any dessert. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also allows for customization based on personal taste preferences. Whether you’re making a classic pie or using it as a topping, we encourage you to try this homemade version—it’s simply better than store-bought!