Father's Day Cherry Pie

Since Father's Day is here, I decided to try my hand at making a cherry pie from scratch.  Both my dad and my brother-in-law LOVE cherry pies.  We went out and picked a bunch of cherries from a coworker's house (thanks!) on one of the hottest days so far!  Hopefully this will all be worth it!


I found my pie recipe from The Food Network and it was very simple!  This is just for the pie filling.  I will be posting another recipe for the pie crust that I used as well.

Ingredients:
4 cups fresh tart cherries (tart)
1 1/2 cups sugar
4 tablespoons cornstarch
1/8 teaspoon almond extract (optional)




Steps:
Place pitted cherries in a medium saucepan and place over medium heat.  Cover.  After the cherries have lost quite a bit of liquid (this could take a few minutes) remove from heat.  In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cornstarch.  Mix this in with the hot cherries and stir well.  Add the almond extract and mix.  Return to the stove and cook over low heat until thickened.  Stir frequently.  Remove from heat and let cool. 


If the filling is too thick, add a little water.  If it is too thin, add a little cornstarch.


Preheat oven to 375 degrees.


Once you've made your pie crust (store bought or my recipe here) divide it in half.  Roll out each piece large enough to fit your pie plate.  Pour the cooled cherry filling into the crust.  Dot with butter.  Moisten the edge of your bottom crust and place your top crust on.  Flute the edges.  Make a slit in the middle of the top crust to allow steam to escape.  Brush with milk and sprinkle with sugar. 


Bake for about 50 minutes or until top crust is lightly browned.  Place a covered cookie sheet on the rack below your pie.  It is a mess to clean cherry pie filling off the bottom of your oven.  Remove from the oven and place on a cooling rack.


Enjoy this delicious recipe!!  I know my family will
.  Happy baking!