Name: Heavenly Cherry and Blueberry Pie That'll Brighten Your Day
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 195 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cherries (pitted and halved) (fresh or frozen); 2 cups blueberries (fresh preferred, can use frozen); 3/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or tapioca flour); 2 tablespoons lemon juice (fresh); 1 batch pie crust (homemade or store-bought); 1/2 cup butter (unsalted)

The aroma of freshly baked goods can instantly whisk you away to cherished memories, and there’s nothing quite like the nostalgic scent of a Classic Cherry and Blueberry Pie wafting through the kitchen. This delightful dessert masterfully harmonizes the sweet and tart notes of vibrant cherries and blueberries, enveloped in a light, flaky crust that promises comfort with every slice. It’s a timeless treat that’s not only stunning to serve at gatherings but also incredibly simple to whip up. Whether you’re planning a summer picnic or just craving something special from your own oven, this recipe is a perfect way to bring a little joy to your day. Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into the wonderful world of homemade pie?

Why is this pie a must-try?

Irresistible Flavors: The sweet cherries and juicy blueberries create a delightful flavor combination, making every bite a fruity explosion.
Simple Preparation: You don’t need to be a pastry chef; this pie is perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a family dinner or a potluck, this pie is sure to impress guests and leave them asking for seconds.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with ice cream or chill it for a refreshing summer treat. Pair it with some Sweet Spicy Mango Dressing to elevate your dessert experience.
Nostalgic Comfort: Baking this Classic Cherry and Blueberry Pie fills your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia, reminding you of those cherished homemade moments.

Cherry and Blueberry Pie Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create your delectable Cherry and Blueberry Pie!

For the Filling
• Cherries – Sweet and tart flavors provide the primary base; fresh or frozen works beautifully.
• Blueberries – Adds sweetness, perfectly complementing the cherries; fresh is preferred, but frozen can help in a pinch.
• Sugar – Sweetens the fruit filling and balances tartness; adjust to taste for personal preference.
• Cornstarch – Thickens the filling for the ideal consistency; tapioca flour can substitute if necessary.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens up the flavors with its acidity; use fresh lemon juice for the best results.

For the Crust
• Pie Crust – Provides the essential structure and texture; opt for homemade or store-bought for convenience.
• Butter – Enhances the richness and flavor of the crust; use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry and Blueberry Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pitted and halved cherries with fresh blueberries. Sprinkle in the sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice, mixing gently until the fruits are well-coated. Let this mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the fruit to release its juices, enhancing the delicious filling for your Cherry and Blueberry Pie.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While the fruit is macerating, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), ensuring it’s ready for baking when your pie is assembled. This higher temperature will help create a beautifully flaky crust that forms the base of your Cherry and Blueberry Pie, giving it that perfect golden hue.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Prepare your pie crust on a lightly floured surface, rolling it out to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Once the bottom crust is laid in the dish, ensure it hangs over the edges slightly. Pour the macerated fruit filling into the crust, spreading it evenly to create a vibrant layer of cherries and blueberries that promise a burst of flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Top the Pie
Roll out the second portion of dough to create the top crust, positioning it over the fruit filling. Use a sharp knife to cut a few slits into the top crust, allowing steam to escape while baking. This will also create a beautiful design, showcasing the colorful fruit beneath, readying your Cherry and Blueberry Pie for baking.

Step 5: Bake the Pie
Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake it for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C). After this initial bake, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, looking for a bubbly filling and a beautifully golden brown crust as visual cues that your pie is perfectly cooked.

Step 6: Cool the Pie
Once baked, remove your Cherry and Blueberry Pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 2 hours on a wire rack. This cooling period ensures that the filling sets properly, preventing it from being too runny when you slice into it. Enjoy the enticing aroma as it fills your kitchen during this essential step.

What to Serve with Classic Cherry and Blueberry Pie

Nothing warms the heart and soul like a homemade dessert, especially when paired with delightful accompaniments to elevate your dining experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and sweetness of vanilla ice cream perfectly balance the tartness of the pie, creating a sublime taste experience. A scoop melting on warm pie is absolute bliss.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a luxurious touch, making each bite of pie feel indulgent. It’s an easy, yet elegant addition that enhances the pie’s flavor.
Fresh Mint Leaves: A garnish of fresh mint brings a pop of color and a refreshing flavor contrast. It complements the fruitiness while adding a touch of sophistication to your presentation.
Warm Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice for a decadent twist. The rich, buttery flavor perfectly pairs with the fruity filling, turning your dessert into an unforgettable treat.
Crisp Salad: A light, crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the sweetness of the pie. The freshness of greens offers a bright contrast to the rich dessert, making each bite refreshing.
Chilled Lemonade: Serve a glass of refreshing lemonade alongside the pie for a perfect summer pairing. The zesty citrus of the drink complements the fruits in the pie beautifully.
Coffee or Tea: Both coffee and tea can provide a warm contrast to the coolness of dessert. Choose a light brew that won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the Cherry and Blueberry Pie.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Classic Cherry and Blueberry Pie ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes during busy weeknights! You can make the fruit filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the cherries, blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. The pie crust can also be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, just roll out the crust, assemble your pie, and follow the baking instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy that heavenly pie with all its flavors intact and minimal effort on the day of serving!

Expert Tips for Cherry and Blueberry Pie

Use Fresh Fruit: Fresh cherries and blueberries deliver the brightest flavors. If using frozen, ensure they’re thoroughly thawed and drained to prevent sogginess.
Avoid Soggy Crust: Pre-bake the crust slightly or sprinkle a tablespoon of cornstarch on the bottom before adding the filling to absorb excess moisture.
Cool Before Slicing: Let your pie cool for at least 2 hours before cutting. This allows the filling to set properly, ensuring clean slices without runny filling.
Sweetness Adjustment: Taste your fruit mixture before baking. Depending on personal preference, you may want to adjust the sugar to achieve the perfect sweetness in your Cherry and Blueberry Pie.
Flaky Crust Tips: For a flakier crust, handle the dough as little as possible and incorporate cold bits of butter or shortening. This creates steam pockets, enhancing the texture.

Cherry and Blueberry Pie Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with these simple twists that will make your Cherry and Blueberry Pie uniquely yours!

Mixed Berries: Add raspberries or blackberries to the filling for an extra burst of flavor and color. This combination brightens the pie and adds diverse textures, giving each slice a delightful surprise.
Nutty Crust: Swap half of the all-purpose flour in your pie crust for finely ground nuts like almonds or walnuts to create a richer, nutty flavor. This variation brings a lovely crunch to each bite, complementing the fruity filling beautifully.
Spiced Twist: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the sugar mix to warm up the flavor profile of your pie. These spices evoke feelings of cozy fall evenings and add a surprising depth to the sweet-tart filling.
Graham Cracker Crust: For a different texture, use a graham cracker crust instead of traditional pie dough. The crispy crust pairs wonderfully with the fruit filling and adds a refreshing, light quality to the dessert. Check out the Gnocchi Spinach Feta for other creative ideas!
Lemon Zest: Zest the lemon peel into the filling for a bright, zesty kick that elevates your pie. This extra layer of flavor enhances the overall taste, making every bite even more refreshing and aromatic.
Savory Note: Add a sprinkle of sea salt or a dash of balsamic vinegar to the fruit filling for a sophisticated twist. This unique combination deepens the fruit’s sweetness and creates a complex flavor experience that will wow your guests.
Chilled Delight: Serve this pie cold for a refreshing summer treat. After baking, chill the pie for a few hours before serving to enjoy a creamy and cool texture, perfect for hot days. Consider pairing with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra indulgent experience.
Flavor Enhancer: Use almond extract in the filling to add a warm, nutty flavor that elevates your pie to gourmet levels. Just a splash will bring a cozy and unique character that keeps everyone coming back for more. Enjoy adding your personal touch!

How to Store and Freeze Cherry and Blueberry Pie

Fridge: Keep your Cherry and Blueberry Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its freshness and flavor.

Freezer: The pie can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and maintain its delicious taste.

Reheating: To enjoy, thaw the pie in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through.

Serving Tip: If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds before serving, enhancing the flavor and comforting aroma of this classic dessert.

Cherry and Blueberry Pie Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe cherries and blueberries?
It’s best to choose fresh cherries that are vibrant in color, firm, and shiny with a sweet fragrance. Look for blueberries that are plump and have a deep blue hue, avoiding any that have dark spots or wrinkles. If using frozen fruit, ensure they’re unsweetened and free from ice crystals, which can indicate freezer burn.

How should I store leftover Cherry and Blueberry Pie?
Keep any leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain its flavor and texture. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing it! Just wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to safeguard against freezer burn.

Can I freeze Cherry and Blueberry Pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze your pie for up to 2 months. To do this, ensure the pie is completely cooled first. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to indulge, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat it at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes to warm it through.

What if my pie filling is too runny?
If your filling turns out overly watery, it could be due to excess moisture from the fruit. To fix this, I recommend mixing in an additional tablespoon of cornstarch before baking to help thicken it. If you find yourself with a runny pie after baking, let it cool completely in the fridge. This cooling period allows the filling to set up more firmly.

Is Cherry and Blueberry Pie safe for pets?
Cherries and blueberries are generally safe for dogs in moderation, but avoid any pits from cherries, as they can be harmful. Always consult your vet regarding the introduction of new foods to your pet’s diet. For those with allergies, be cautious with any cross-contamination with allergens during preparation.

What other flavors can I incorporate into my Cherry and Blueberry Pie?
For a delightful twist, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract for depth or mix in some lemon zest for extra brightness. You might also experiment with other berries like raspberries or strawberries to create your own mixed berry pie sensation! The more—berry good options, the merrier!