Hey, pie lovers! Today, we're diving into a super easy and delicious recipe: Cherry Pie with Graham Cracker Crust. If you're like me and love a good shortcut without sacrificing flavor, this recipe is for you. We're skipping the traditional pie crust and going with a simple, sweet graham cracker crust that complements the tartness of the cherries perfectly. Trust me; this will be a hit at any gathering!

Why This Recipe Rocks

• Simplicity is Key: Let’s face it, not everyone has the time or patience to make a traditional pie crust from scratch. This recipe eliminates that hassle with a pre-made graham cracker crust or a quick homemade version.
• Delicious Flavor Combo: The buttery, slightly salty graham cracker crust pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tangy cherry filling. It’s a match made in dessert heaven.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a summer BBQ, a holiday dinner, or just a casual get-together, cherry pie is always a hit. And this version is so easy, you can whip it up anytime.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we get started, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cherry Filling:

• 2 (21 ounce) cans cherry pie filling
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but highly recommended)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (if your filling seems too runny)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create your own Easy Cherry Pie with Graham Cracker Crust.

1. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until well combined. The mixture should resemble wet sand. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate. You can use the bottom of a measuring cup to help press it firmly. If you want to bake the crust, pre-bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes. This helps it set and become more firm, but it's optional. Let it cool completely before adding the filling.

2. Make the Cherry Filling

In a large bowl, combine the cherry pie filling, almond extract (if using), and lemon juice. If the filling seems too runny, mix in the cornstarch to help thicken it up. Stir everything together until well combined.

3. Assemble and Bake

Pour the cherry filling into the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly. If you pre-baked the crust, you can reduce the baking time slightly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the crust is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent the crust from burning.

4. Cool and Serve

Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This is important because the filling will continue to set as it cools. Once cooled, you can slice and serve. For an extra treat, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Pie

• Use Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the pie. Opt for high-quality cherry pie filling and fresh butter for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can lead to a dry filling and a burnt crust. Keep a close eye on the pie while it’s in the oven.
• Let it Cool Completely: This is crucial for the filling to set properly. Patience is key!
• Customize Your Crust: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to your graham cracker crust for extra flavor.
• Add a Topping: Consider adding a streusel topping or a lattice crust for a more elaborate presentation.

Variations to Try

• Chocolate Graham Cracker Crust: Use chocolate graham crackers for a richer, more decadent crust.
• Mixed Berry Pie: Combine cherries with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries for a mixed berry pie.
• Cherry Crumble Pie: Add a crumble topping made from flour, butter, and sugar for a delightful texture contrast.

The Delicious Details of Graham Cracker Crust

Now, let's delve deeper into what makes this graham cracker crust so special and why it's the perfect partner for our cherry pie. This isn't just any crust; it’s a delightful shortcut that brings its own unique charm to the dessert table.

The Magic of Graham Crackers

So, what's the deal with graham crackers? Originally created in the 19th century by Sylvester Graham, these crackers were intended to be a health food. Ironically, they've become a staple in many indulgent desserts! Their slightly sweet, subtly molasses-like flavor provides a wonderful base that doesn’t overpower the filling. When combined with butter and sugar, they transform into a sturdy, flavorful crust that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

Why Choose Graham Cracker Crust?

• Ease of Preparation: Let's be real, making a traditional pie crust can be a daunting task. It requires precision, patience, and a bit of skill. Graham cracker crusts, on the other hand, are incredibly simple. Just crush, mix, and press! This makes them perfect for beginner bakers or anyone looking to save time without compromising on taste.
• Unique Flavor Profile: Unlike flaky pie crusts that are more neutral in flavor, graham cracker crusts bring a hint of sweetness and a subtle grainy texture that complements fruit fillings beautifully. The slight saltiness of the crackers also balances the sweetness of the filling, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
• Versatility: While we're using it for cherry pie today, graham cracker crusts are incredibly versatile. They work well with a variety of fillings, from creamy cheesecakes to tangy lemon bars. Their sturdy structure can handle both baked and no-bake fillings, making them a go-to choice for many desserts.

Tips for the Perfect Graham Cracker Crust

• Crushing the Crackers: The key to a great graham cracker crust is evenly crushed crackers. You can use a food processor for a fine, uniform crumb, or place the crackers in a resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin for a more rustic texture. Just make sure there are no large chunks left.
• Butter Matters: Use real, unsalted butter for the best flavor. Melt the butter completely and mix it thoroughly with the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. This ensures that the crust holds together well and doesn't crumble apart.
• Pressing the Crust: Use the bottom of a measuring cup or a flat-bottomed glass to firmly press the graham cracker mixture into the pie plate. Pay special attention to the edges and the bottom to create an even, sturdy crust.
• Pre-Baking: While pre-baking is optional, it can help the crust set and prevent it from becoming soggy, especially if you're using a particularly juicy filling. Bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes until it’s lightly golden and fragrant.

Storing Your Pie

If you have any leftover cherry pie (which is unlikely!), you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. The graham cracker crust may soften slightly over time, but it will still taste delicious!

Conclusion

So there you have it – an easy and delicious cherry pie with a graham cracker crust that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is a guaranteed success. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet cherries and buttery graham crackers, and happy baking, folks!