Cherry Meringue Pie

There’s something undeniably comforting about a homemade pie with a delicate meringue topping. The combination of a flaky crust, sweet cherries, and fluffy meringue creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is sure to impress your family and friends. This Cherry Meringue Pie recipe is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, adding a burst of fruity freshness to the mix. So gather your ingredients and let’s get baking!

Cherry Meringue Pie

Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust, pre-baked
– 4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, 1 cup of sugar, cornstarch, almond extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the cherries release their juices, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Pour the cherry filling into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly.

4. In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar with a hand mixer on high speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add in 1/2 cup of sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy.

5. Spread the meringue over the cherry filling, making sure to seal the edges of the pie crust to prevent any leaking.

6. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly golden brown.

7. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely before serving. This pie can be enjoyed warm or chilled, depending on your preference.

Piece by piece, this Cherry Meringue Pie is a delightful treat that captures the essence of a warm, cozy home. The sweet-tart cherries combined with the fluffy meringue will have your guests coming back for seconds. So take the time to savor each delicious bite and share the joy of homemade goodness with your loved ones.