If you are seeking a dessert that combines the lusciousness of cherries with the smooth richness of custard, this German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. With a tender crust, juicy cherries nestled in a velvety custard, and just the right touch of sweetness, this pie brings a comforting yet elegant finish to any meal. Whether you enjoy it as a weekend treat or as the highlight of a festive gathering, the harmony of flavors and textures makes this dessert truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste and texture for this German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe. From fresh or frozen cherries offering a burst of tangy sweetness to the creamy custard that binds it all together, every element is essential for that classic flavor and vibrant color.
- Cherries (1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen, pitted): The star fruit providing a natural tartness that complements the creamy custard.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Adds brightness and helps balance the sweetness while enhancing cherry flavor.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Acts as a thickener to prevent the cherry juices from making the crust soggy.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the custard and cherries for that perfect dessert-level sweetness.
- Heavy cream (1 1/2 cups): Gives the custard its rich, velvety texture and luscious mouthfeel.
- Eggs (2 large): Essential for setting the custard and adding a silky texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses warmth and depth to the custard flavor.
- Pie crust (1 pre-made or homemade): Provides the crisp, buttery base to hold all those delicious ingredients.
- Butter (1 tablespoon, for greasing): Ensures the pie crust edges cook up beautifully without sticking.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavors.
How to Make German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking. While the oven warms up, place your pie crust into a pie pan and lightly grease the edges with butter. This simple step ensures your crust will turn golden and flaky without sticking to the pan, creating the perfect base for the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Layer
In a medium bowl, toss your pitted cherries with lemon juice and cornstarch. This combination not only brightens the cherries but also thickens any juices released during baking, preventing a soggy crust. Spread these luscious cherries evenly over the prepared pie crust for a balanced berry layer that will shine through once baked.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Custard Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mixing these ingredients well is key for a smooth custard without lumps. This creamy mixture will gently set around the cherries as it bakes, creating a stunning contrast of silky custard and juicy fruit.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Carefully pour your custard mixture over the cherry-filled pie crust, ensuring the cherries are evenly covered. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the custard is set and the top turns a light golden shade, with the center feeling slightly firm to the touch. This baking step is where the magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into a beautiful dessert.
Step 5: Cool Thoroughly Before Serving
Once baked, allow your pie to cool completely. This cooling time is crucial as it lets the custard fully set, ensuring you get clean, perfect slices when it’s time to serve. The aroma filling your kitchen while it cools will be irresistible, making the wait absolutely worth it.
How to Serve German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of toasted almonds can elevate the visual appeal and add complementary textures to your German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe. These simple garnishes do wonders in enhancing both the look and flavor, making every bite a celebration.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce, offering an indulgent contrast to the tart cherries and creamy custard. Fresh fruit salad or a light herbal tea can also provide a refreshing accompaniment that balances the richness of the pie.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming touch, serve slices of the pie on vintage plates with edible flowers beside them. You can also present smaller, individual tartlets made with the same filling for intimate gatherings. Layering pieces of the pie with Greek yogurt and granola in dessert glasses makes for a visually stunning and delicious parfait variation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy that luscious custard and cherry goodness even after the initial feast.
Freezing
While this pie is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to one month by wrapping it carefully in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. To maintain the custard’s silky texture, be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual slices gently in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can toughen the custard. Enjoy the pie slightly warm or at room temperature for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work perfectly in this German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before mixing with lemon juice and cornstarch to avoid excess moisture.
Is it possible to make the pie crust from scratch?
Yes, making your own pie crust adds a wonderful homemade touch. Opt for a buttery, flaky crust recipe to complement the creamy filling, and remember to chill the dough well before rolling out for the best results.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with milk?
While you can use milk, heavy cream is recommended for its richness and ability to create that smooth, luxurious custard texture. Using milk may result in a thinner filling.
How do I know when the custard is fully baked?
The custard is done when it’s set but still has a slight jiggle in the center when you gently shake the pie. The top should be lightly golden. Overbaking can cause it to crack or become rubbery.
Can I add spices or other flavors to the custard?
Definitely! A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg works beautifully with cherries, adding warmth to the custard. Just be careful not to overpower the delicate cherry flavor that makes this pie special.
Final Thoughts
This German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe is one of those delightful desserts that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. Its perfect harmony of tart cherries and silky custard wrapped in a crisp crust makes it truly irresistible. I encourage you to bake this at home and share it with friends and family—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it becomes a beloved classic on your dessert menu.
Print
German Cherry Custard Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Description
German Cherry Cake, also known as Cherry Custard Pie, is a delightful dessert featuring a flaky pie crust filled with a sweet cherry mixture covered in a creamy custard. This pie is baked to perfection until the custard is set and lightly golden, offering a perfect balance of tart cherries and smooth, rich custard. Ideal for any dessert table, it’s simple to make yet impressively delicious.
Ingredients
For the Cherry Filling
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the Custard
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Other
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare it for baking the cherry custard pie.
- Prepare the pie crust: Place the pie crust into a pie pan and lightly grease the edges with butter to prevent sticking and to add flavor.
- Mix the cherry filling: In a medium bowl, combine the pitted cherries with lemon juice and cornstarch. Toss gently to coat the cherries evenly with the mixture.
- Spread the cherries: Evenly distribute the cherry mixture into the prepared pie crust, making sure it covers the bottom evenly.
- Make the custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour custard over cherries: Carefully pour the custard mixture over the cherries in the pie crust, ensuring the cherries are fully covered by the cream mixture.
- Bake the pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The pie is done when the custard is set, lightly golden on top, and the center is slightly firm to the touch.
- Cool before serving: Let the pie cool completely so the custard firms up properly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen cherries based on availability; if using frozen, do not thaw to avoid excess moisture.
- Ensure the custard is fully set before removing from oven to prevent a runny filling.
- A pre-made pie crust saves time, but homemade crust can enhance flavor and texture.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for best taste.
- To reduce sweetness, consider adjusting sugar quantities especially when using very sweet cherries.
