Perfect Cherry - Berry Pie

Ingredients:

For Pie Crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Ice water (4-6 tablespoons)

For Cherry-Berry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water, for brushing)
• Sugar (for sprinkling on top)

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare Pie Crust

• In a food processor, pulse together flour, sugar, and salt. Add chilled and cubed butter. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough comes together.
• Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Preheat Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 3: Roll Out Crust

• Roll out one disc of the chilled pie crust on a floured surface. Line a pie dish with the rolled-out crust.

Step 4: Prepare Filling

• In a large bowl, combine pitted and halved cherries, mixed berries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract (if using). Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Fill Pie Crust

• Pour the prepared fruit filling into the lined pie dish.

Step 6: Roll Out Top Crust

• Roll out the second disc of chilled pie crust. You can either create a lattice pattern or place the whole crust over the filling, sealing the edges by crimping with a fork or your fingers.

Step 7: Brush with Egg Wash

• Brush the top crust with the egg wash for a golden finish.

Step 8: Ventilation Holes

• Cut slits or create small openings in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 9: Sprinkle with Sugar

• Sprinkle the top crust with sugar for added sweetness and a shiny appearance.

Step 10: Bake

• Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Step 11: Cool and Serve

• Allow the Cherry-Berry Pie to cool before slicing. Serve it warm or at room temperature.

Step 12: Enjoy!

• Enjoy a slice of this delightful Cherry-Berry Pie, either on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Savor the sweet and tart goodness of summer berries and cherries in each bite of this homemade Cherry-Berry Pie—a perfect treat for dessert or any special occasion.