Cherry Pie: Michigan's Classic Dessert
Description:
Delight in the tart and sweet flavors of Michigan's Cherry Pie. Made with tart cherries nestled in a flaky crust, this classic pie celebrates Michigan's rich cherry orchards. Discover the recipe here.
Historical Background: Michigan, renowned for its abundant cherry orchards, has been a major producer of tart cherries since the 19th century. The state's cool climate and fertile soil create ideal growing conditions for cherries, making Cherry Pie a beloved local dessert.
Key Ingredients:
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Tart cherries (fresh or frozen)
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Granulated sugar
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Cornstarch
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Lemon juice
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All-purpose flour
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Butter
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Pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Flavor Profile:
Cherry Pie offers a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors, with the juicy cherries providing a refreshing contrast to the buttery, flaky crust.
Culinary Insights:
Michigan's Cherry Pie is more than just a dessert; it's a celebration of the state's agricultural heritage. The tart cherries used in this pie are a testament to Michigan's commitment to producing high-quality, flavorful fruits enjoyed by generations.
Ingredients:
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4 cups tart cherries (fresh or frozen, pitted)
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1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
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1/4 cup cornstarch
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons butter (cut into small pieces)
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1 double pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
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Prepare Cherry Filling: In a large bowl, combine the tart cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Mix well until the cherries are evenly coated.
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Prepare Bottom Crust: Roll out one portion of the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Sprinkle the bottom with 1 tablespoon of flour to prevent the crust from getting soggy.
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Add Filling: Pour the cherry mixture into the prepared pie crust. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.
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Top Crust: Roll out the second portion of the pie crust and place it over the cherries. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
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Bake: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack before serving. This helps the filling to set and makes slicing easier.
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Enjoy: Serve your Michigan Cherry Pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.
