Country Holidays

National Cherry Pie Day

Celebrate National Cherry Pie Day with a Sweet and Tart Treat

National Cherry Pie Day is a special day for pie lovers and cherry enthusiasts alike. This day is dedicated to celebrating the quintessential American dessert, cherry pie. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a beloved treat, cherry pie has captured the hearts and taste buds of people all around the world. In this article, we will explore the history of cherry pie, how to make your own, and fun ways to celebrate National Cherry Pie Day.

The History of Cherry Pie: Cherry pie has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the 16th century. The first recorded recipe for cherry pie was in an English cookbook called “The Forme of Cury” in the late 14th century. The pie was made with dried cherries, spices, and sugar, and was served at banquets and feasts.

In America, cherry pie became a popular dessert in the 19th century. According to legend, George Washington, the first President of the United States, once chopped down a cherry tree and later confessed to his father that he had done so. While this story is likely apocryphal, it helped to cement cherry pie as a symbol of American culture and tradition.

How to Make Cherry Pie: Making cherry pie is easier than you might think. Here’s a simple recipe that you can use to create your own cherry pie:

Ingredients:

  • 1 double pie crust
  • 4 cups of fresh or frozen cherries
  • 1 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup of cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract
  • 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
  2. Roll out one of your pie crusts and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
  3. In a large bowl, mix together the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and almond extract.
  4. Pour the cherry mixture into the pie crust.
  5. Cut the butter into small pieces and sprinkle it over the cherry mixture.
  6. Roll out your second pie crust and place it over the cherry filling.
  7. Trim the excess dough from the edges and crimp the edges together to seal the pie.
  8. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
  9. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
  10. Let the pie cool for at least an hour before serving.

Fun Ways to Celebrate National Cherry Pie Day: National Cherry Pie Day is a perfect excuse to indulge in some delicious cherry pie. Here are some fun ways to celebrate this holiday:

  1. Bake a cherry pie: Use the recipe above to make your own cherry pie from scratch.
  2. Visit a local bakery: If you’re not in the mood to bake, head to your local bakery and pick up a freshly baked cherry pie.
  3. Have a cherry pie party: Invite your friends over and ask everyone to bring their own homemade cherry pie. Have a taste test and vote on the best one.
  4. Learn about the history of cherry pie: Take some time to learn about the history of cherry pie and its cultural significance in America.

FAQs:

Q: What is National Cherry Pie Day?

A: National Cherry Pie Day is a holiday that is celebrated on February 20th each year to honor and enjoy the delicious dessert.

Q: What kind of cherries are best for making cherry pie? 

The best cherries for making cherry pie are sour cherries. They have a bright, tart flavor that complements the sweetness of the pie filling. If you can’t find fresh cherries, you can also use frozen or canned cherries. Just be sure to drain them well before using them in your pie.

Q: Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

A: Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust if you don’t want to make your own from scratch. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the package and bake it according to the directions.

Q: Can I make cherry pie with a lattice crust?

A: Yes, a lattice crust is a classic way to top a cherry pie. To make a lattice crust, simply cut strips of dough and weave them over the filling.

Conclusion: National Cherry Pie Day is a fun and delicious holiday that celebrates the sweet and tart flavors of cherry pie. Whether you prefer to make your own pie from scratch or pick one up from your local bakery, there are many ways to enjoy this classic dessert. So go ahead, indulge in a slice of cherry pie on February 20th, and celebrate National Cherry Pie Day in style!

Back to top button