This German Cherry Cake – Cherry Custard Pie is a decadent dessert that combines the natural sweetness of cherries with a rich, creamy custard filling. The buttery, crisp pie crust is the perfect base for this delightful treat. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a comforting dessert, this pie is sure to please your taste buds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I absolutely love how easy this cherry custard pie is to make while still delivering an incredibly indulgent result. The combination of sweet cherries and smooth custard creates the perfect balance of flavors, and the golden crust adds a satisfying crunch. This pie is a great way to use fresh or frozen cherries, making it versatile no matter the season. It’s also a fantastic dessert for gatherings, as it slices beautifully and is sure to impress!
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
1 tablespoon lemon juice
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
Pinch of salt
1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare your pie crust by placing it in a pie pan and lightly greasing the edges with butter.
In a medium bowl, toss the cherries with lemon juice and cornstarch. Spread the cherries evenly in the prepared pie crust.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
Pour the cream mixture over the cherries, ensuring they are fully covered.
Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set and lightly golden on top. The center should be slightly firm to the touch.
Allow the pie to cool completely before serving, as it will firm up as it cools.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Variations
While this cherry custard pie is delicious as-is, there are several ways to mix it up!
Fruit Variety: You can swap the cherries for other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or mixed berries for a different twist.
Crust Options: If you’re not a fan of traditional pie crust, you can try using a graham cracker crust or a shortbread crust for a unique flavor.
Spices: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or almond extract to the custard for a subtle hint of warmth and depth.
Storage/Reheating
If you have any leftovers, store the pie in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, I recommend gently warming it in the oven at a low temperature (about 300°F) until it’s warmed through. Alternatively, you can enjoy it chilled, as the custard firms up nicely when refrigerated.
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FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh cherries?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.
Can I make this pie without a pre-made crust?
Of course! You can make a homemade pie crust if you prefer, or even use a store-bought graham cracker crust for a different flavor and texture.
How do I know when the custard is done baking?
The custard should be set and lightly golden on top. It should feel firm to the touch in the center, but still have a slight jiggle when gently shaken.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, this pie is perfect for making ahead. Simply bake it, allow it to cool, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze this cherry custard pie?
While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the pie after it’s baked and cooled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it should last for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.
Conclusion
This German Cherry Cake – Cherry Custard Pie is a must-try dessert for any occasion. It’s creamy, fruity, and the buttery crust makes every bite irresistible. Whether you choose fresh or frozen cherries, this pie is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. I hope you enjoy making and eating this delightful dessert as much as I do.
📖 Recipe:
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German Cherry Cake – Cherry Custard Pie
- Total Time: 55
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This German Cherry Cake – Cherry Custard Pie combines the sweetness of cherries with a rich custard filling, all encased in a buttery, golden pie crust. Perfect for any occasion, this easy-to-make dessert is a crowd-pleaser whether you’re using fresh or frozen cherries. With a creamy filling and a slightly crisp crust, it’s an indulgent treat that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)
Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare your pie crust by placing it in a pie pan and lightly greasing the edges with butter.
- In a medium bowl, toss the cherries with lemon juice and cornstarch. Spread the cherries evenly in the prepared pie crust.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Pour the cream mixture over the cherries, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set and lightly golden on top. The center should be slightly firm to the touch.
- Allow the pie to cool completely before serving, as it will firm up as it cools.
Notes
Frozen Cherries: If you’re using frozen cherries, make sure to thaw them first and drain excess liquid.
Crust Variations: Feel free to swap the traditional pie crust with a graham cracker or shortbread crust for a unique twist.
Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon or almond extract to the custard for extra flavor depth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal
