Cherry Crumb Pie

By:

Ava

December 17, 2025

Freshly baked Cherry Crumb Pie with a golden crumb topping and tart cherry filling.

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📑 Table of Contents ▶

Cherry Crumb Pie Fundamentals
Preparation/setup
Directions
Crafting Cherry Crumb Pie with Technique
Technique
Tips and Tricks
Perfecting Cherry Crumb Pie Results
Perfecting results
Troubleshooting and Variations
Serving and Storing Cherry Crumb Pie
Serving Presentation
Pairings and Storage
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Cherry Crumb Pie

The aroma of cherry crumb pie baking fills the kitchen with a sense of nostalgia. Memories flood back to afternoons spent plucking cherries from trees, the sweet and tart fruit often making its way into bowls and bellies before reaching a pie plate. This is the essence of cherry crumb pie—a dessert that embodies summer and home.

The vibrant cherries burst with flavor, and when paired with just the right balance of sweetness and a crumbly topping, they create a dessert that feels indulgent yet comforting. Each bite balances the juicy filling and the buttery crumbs, making it a go-to for gatherings or a simple night in. Baking a cherry crumb pie brings a sense of satisfaction, turning fresh ingredients into a dish that warms the heart.

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With a few essential ingredients, you can craft this delightful pie in your own kitchen. Follow along to learn how to make this incredible cherry crumb pie—a recipe designed to celebrate the simplicity of cooking while providing rich and rewarding flavors. You’ll want to keep this recipe close as summer rolls in, and cherry season arrives once more.

Cherry Crumb Pie Fundamentals

Preparation/setup

The beauty of cherry crumb pie lies in its straightforward approach. It starts with a reliable 9-inch pie crust, either store-bought or homemade, which forms the foundation of your pie. To ensure success, preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. This initial burst of heat creates a beautifully crisp crust.

While the oven warms up, work on the cherry filling. Take five cups of pitted cherries—whole or halved—and place them in a mixing bowl. Add one teaspoon of vanilla extract and one teaspoon of almond extract to bring depth to the flavor. Then, incorporate two-thirds cup of white granulated sugar and a quarter cup of corn starch. This mixture will not only sweeten the juice that will form but will also thicken it as it cooks. Allow this blending of flavors to sit for about five to ten minutes. The cherries will begin releasing their natural juices, creating a luscious filling.

Ingredients

To achieve a perfect cherry crumb pie, gather the following ingredients:

1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
5 cups pitted cherries, whole or cut in half
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
2/3 cup white granulated sugar
1/4 cup corn starch
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup white granulated sugar
1/3 cup light brown sugar
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
A pinch of salt

These simple ingredients work together to create the pie’s signature flavor. The combination of white granulated sugar and light brown sugar for the crumb topping elevates the sweetness while the butter adds richness.

Directions

Once your cherry mixture has had time to sit, mix together two-thirds cup of all-purpose flour, a quarter cup of white granulated sugar, and a third cup of light brown sugar in another bowl. This mixture serves as the base for your crumb topping.

Introduce four tablespoons of cold unsalted butter to this dry mixture. Using your hands, pinch the butter into the flour and sugar until you achieve a sandy texture. This creates that delightful crumble that contrasts with the juicy cherries.

Next, take a slotted spoon to transfer the cherry mixture into your chilled pie crust. Be careful to leave the excess liquid in the bowl, as too much juice can make the pie soggy. Spread the juicy cherries evenly throughout the crust, then sprinkle the crumble mixture generously over the top.

Place the pie in the preheated oven for 20 minutes at 425 degrees F. This initial high temperature sets your crust into motion. After that, lower the heat to 375 degrees F, allowing the pie to bake for an additional 35 to 40 minutes. Watch as the cherries bubble and the topping turns a comforting golden brown.

To protect the edges from over-browning, you can place a pie crust shield on or use a bit of aluminum foil.

After baking, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for about 20 to 30 minutes. This cooling phase allows the filling to set slightly, making for easier slicing when it’s time to serve.

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Cherry Crumb Pie

Crafting Cherry Crumb Pie with Technique

Technique

Mastering cherry crumb pie comes down to understanding a few essential techniques. Ensuring the cherries are pitted and cut evenly sets the stage for an even bake. Whenever working with fresh fruit in desserts, be mindful of the quality—fresh, ripe cherries yield the best flavor and texture.

When preparing the crumb topping, a sandy texture is ideal. To achieve this, ensure your butter remains cold while combining. Cold butter creates distinct pieces that, when baked, lead to that signature crumble.

Tips and Tricks

Chill your pie crust: If using a homemade crust, chilling it before filling helps maintain its shape during baking.
Use a mix of cherry varieties: If available, mixing sweet and tart cherries can create a more complex flavor profile.
Adjust sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of the cherries, you might find you need slightly less sugar in the filling.
Prevent sogginess: Pour off excess liquid from the cherry mixture before filling the crust. This step is crucial for a crisp pie.

Perfecting Cherry Crumb Pie Results

Perfecting results

To achieve the perfect cherry crumb pie, pay attention to baking times, as ovens may vary. A bubbly filling and a beautifully browned topping signal that your pie is ready to be enjoyed. If you notice that the pie is browning too quickly, the pie shield technique will be invaluable.

Troubleshooting and Variations

If your cherry filling turns out too runny, it’s likely due to excess liquid. Don’t hesitate to use less sugar or more cornstarch to balance this next time.

Alternatively, you can experiment with different fruits for the filling. Peaches, blueberries, or a combination can all introduce interesting flavors while maintaining that delightful crumb topping.

Serving and Storing Cherry Crumb Pie

Serving Presentation

Serve the cherry crumb pie warm or at room temperature for the best flavor. For an elegant touch, you may wish to accompany it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. These additions bring creaminess that complements the tart cherry filling beautifully.

Pairings and Storage

Cherry crumb pie pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a chilled glass of milk. To store leftovers, cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will remain delicious for up to three days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.

If you wish to freeze it, slice it beforehand. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and follow with aluminum foil. The pie will retain its quality for up to three months in the freezer. Simply thaw in the refrigerator when you’re ready to indulge again.

This cherry crumb pie encapsulates what makes baking feel special—simple ingredients creating something magical. With each bite, you get a rich flavor and a reminder of home.

Cherry crumb pie stands as a testament to the joy of baking and sharing delicious desserts with family and friends.

Cherry Crumb Pie

Author: emily
Total Time: 75 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful cherry crumb pie that combines sweet and tart flavors with a crumbly topping, perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
5 cups pitted cherries, whole or cut in half
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
2/3 cup white granulated sugar
1/4 cup corn starch
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup white granulated sugar (for crumb topping)
1/3 cup light brown sugar
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
A pinch of salt

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F.
Mix cherries with vanilla extract, almond extract, 2/3 cup granulated sugar, corn starch, and let sit for 5-10 minutes.
In another bowl, combine 2/3 cup flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/3 cup brown sugar for the crumble.
Add cold butter to crumb mixture and pinch together to create a sandy texture.
Transfer the cherry mixture to the pie crust, leaving excess liquid behind.
Spread cherries evenly and sprinkle crumb topping over.
Bake at 425°F for 20 minutes, then reduce heat to 375°F and bake for an additional 35-40 minutes.
Let cool for 20-30 minutes before serving.