German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe

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If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug wrapped in a delicate balance of fruity sweetness and creamy silkiness, this German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe is exactly what you need. Bringing together luscious cherries and a smooth custard baked inside a golden crust, this pie is a timeless treat that celebrates simple ingredients and classic flavors. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet moment alone, every bite delivers a comforting richness that’s hard to resist and will quickly become one of your favorite go-to indulgences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe relies on basic pantry staples and a handful of fresh or frozen cherries that combine to create a luscious, creamy, and fruity masterpiece. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in balancing flavors and textures from the crisp crust to the smooth custard and tart cherries.

• Fresh or frozen cherries (1 1/2 cups): Pitted cherries add that wonderful burst of juicy, tart flavor that cuts through the creamy custard perfectly.
• Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the cherries and keeps their color vibrant during baking.
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Thickens the cherry filling to prevent watery sogginess in the crust.
• Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the custard and balances the tartness of the cherries.
• Heavy cream (1 1/2 cups): Makes the custard luxuriously rich and silky smooth.
• Large eggs (2): Provide structure and creaminess to the custard as it bakes.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, inviting note that complements the cherries beautifully.
• Pre-made pie crust: Simple and flaky, creating a crisp base and edge to hold the custard and cherries.
• Butter (1 tablespoon): Used for greasing the pie pan, ensuring an easy release and enhancing crust flavor.
• Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors harmoniously.

How to Make German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) early so it reaches the perfect temperature for baking by the time you’ve assembled your pie. A stable oven heat is key to getting that dreamy custard set just right with a delicate golden top.

Step 2: Ready the Pie Crust

Place your pre-made pie crust in a pie pan and lightly grease the edges with butter. This simple step not only prevents sticking but also adds a subtle richness to the crust’s edge, making it even more irresistible.

Step 3: Prepare the Cherry Filling

In a medium bowl, toss your cherries with lemon juice and cornstarch. The lemon juice helps maintain that bright cherry color, while the cornstarch thickens the juices released during baking, preventing a soggy bottom—no one wants that!

Step 4: Spread Cherries in Pie Crust

Evenly distribute the coated cherries over the prepared crust. This creates the inviting fruity layer beneath the custard that will shine through once baked.

Step 5: Whisk Your Custard Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until silky smooth. This mixture will envelop the cherries and transform into the custardy heart of the pie during baking.

Step 6: Pour Custard Over Cherries

Gently pour the creamy custard mixture over the cherries, making sure they’re completely covered. This ensures every part of the pie has luscious custard and bursts of fruit.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pop your pie into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the custard is set but still slightly tender in the center and the top carries a light, golden glow. The aroma from your oven will be impossible to resist.

Step 8: Cool Before Enjoying

Let your pie cool completely at room temperature. This step is crucial because the custard firms up as it cools, making slicing neat and giving you that perfect forkful of creamy, fruity pie happiness.

How to Serve German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh cherries on top adds a pretty finishing touch. For a bit of extra indulgence, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm custard beautifully.

Side Dishes

If you’re serving this pie after a meal, consider light options like a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to keep the focus on the dessert. For an afternoon treat, a hot cup of coffee or tea pairs wonderfully with the richness of the pie.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving slices on individual plates with a drizzle of cherry coulis or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for added texture. For festive occasions, you can also layer this custard and cherry filling in mini tart shells as delightful finger foods.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. The custard stays creamy and the cherries will maintain their juicy goodness, making it perfect for next-day cravings.

Freezing

This pie freezes well if you want to prepare ahead. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. For best texture, consume within one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer your pie warm, reheat slices gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This warms the custard evenly without drying out the crust or curdling the filling.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries for this German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work just as well as fresh ones. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before tossing with lemon juice and cornstarch to avoid excess moisture.

What can I substitute for heavy cream if I want a lighter version?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that the custard will be less rich and creamy. Eggs will still help provide structure, but the texture won’t be quite as silky.

Is it better to use a homemade or store-bought pie crust?

Both work wonderfully. Store-bought crusts save time and are delicious when baked properly, while homemade crusts let you customize flavors and textures to your liking.

How do I know when the custard is fully set?

The custard should be lightly golden on top and slightly firm to the touch but still have a gentle wobble when you gently shake the pie pan. It will fully firm up while cooling.

Can I add almond extract or spices to enhance the flavor?

Definitely! A drop of almond extract pairs perfectly with cherries. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture for a subtle, warm spice note.

Final Thoughts

This German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe is a delightful way to bring a bit of old-world charm to your dessert table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. I encourage you to give it a try and watch how it effortlessly steals the show at any gathering or quiet night in. Once you taste that perfect dance of creamy custard and tart cherries in a flaky crust, you’ll have yet another treasured recipe to add to your baking repertoire!

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