A warm, homemade cherry pie is one of the most nostalgic desserts you can make for Christmas. Its vibrant ruby-red filling, buttery golden crust, and irresistible sweet-tart flavor make it a festive centerpiece for any holiday table. This Cherry Pie Recipe captures everything you love about the classic dessert while adding a subtle holiday twist with citrus and warm spices. Whether you're baking for a Christmas dinner, a holiday potluck, or simply craving a comforting seasonal treat, this recipe delivers a beautifully balanced, crowd-pleasing pie that feels like Christmas in every slice.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 55 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins
Servings: 8
Yield: 1 (9-inch) cherry pie
Ingredients
Filling:
- 4 cups tart cherries (fresh, frozen, or canned; if canned, drain well)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch (level, not heaping)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or 1 teaspoon orange zest
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional but recommended for Christmas flavor)
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon butter, diced
Crust:
- 2 (9-inch) pie crusts, store-bought or homemade
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for a sparkling holiday finish)
Tip: If using frozen cherries, thaw and pat dry to avoid a runny filling. If the mixture looks too thin, add an extra ½ tablespoon of cornstarch.
Directions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking sheet on the lower rack to catch drips and help the bottom crust brown evenly. - Prepare the Cherry Filling
In a large bowl, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, citrus (lemon juice or orange zest), cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Stir until cherries are well coated and the mixture looks glossy.
Holiday Tip: Orange zest enhances the festive flavor and adds brightness to the rich filling. - Assemble the Pie
Line a 9-inch pie dish with the bottom crust. Pour the cherry filling into the crust and dot the top with small cubes of butter.
Cover with the second crust, or create a lattice pattern for a classic holiday presentation. Trim and crimp edges to seal. - Add the Finishing Touches
Brush the top crust with beaten egg. Sprinkle coarse sugar if desired for extra sparkle.
Cut several small slits in the top crust if not using a lattice—this allows steam to escape. - Bake the Pie
Bake at 425°F for 20 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C).
Continue baking for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the vents. - Cool Before Serving
Let the pie cool at least 3 to 4 hours before slicing. This helps the filling fully set and prevents a runny interior.
Warning: Cutting too early will result in a loose, soupy filling—worth the wait for clean slices.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated Values
- Calories: 335
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 28mg
- Sodium: 210mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 55g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 32g
- Protein: 3g
Conclusion
This Cherry Pie Recipe brings festive charm, rich flavor, and classic holiday comfort to your Christmas table. With its sparkling golden crust and vibrant cherry filling, it’s a showstopping dessert that looks as beautiful as it tastes. Whether you're making it ahead for a big holiday feast or enjoying a cozy slice by the fire, this pie is sure to become a cherished Christmas tradition. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate holiday treat.
