Deliciously Easy Recipe for Cherry Pie Filling Using Canned Cherries

Are you craving a sweet and tangy dessert that’s both simple to prepare and utterly delightful? Look no further! This recipe for cherry pie filling using ca……

Are you craving a sweet and tangy dessert that’s both simple to prepare and utterly delightful? Look no further! This recipe for cherry pie filling using canned cherries is the perfect solution for your dessert needs, whether you're baking a classic cherry pie, making a fruit tart, or simply wanting a sweet topping for your ice cream. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a luscious cherry filling that will impress your family and friends.

### Ingredients You'll Need

To make this recipe for cherry pie filling using canned cherries, you’ll need the following ingredients:

- 1 can (about 15 ounces) of pitted cherries in syrup

- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

- 2 tablespoons cornstarch

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for a hint of brightness)

- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but highly recommended for depth of flavor)

- A pinch of salt

### Instructions

1. **Drain the Cherries**: Begin by draining the canned cherries, reserving about 1/2 cup of the syrup. This syrup will add flavor and sweetness to your filling.

2. **Combine Ingredients**: In a medium saucepan, combine the reserved cherry syrup, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, almond extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture well until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.

3. **Cook the Mixture**: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly. As it heats up, the mixture will start to thicken. This process should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it reaches a desired thickness, remove it from the heat.

4. **Add the Cherries**: Gently fold in the drained cherries, ensuring they are well coated with the syrupy mixture. Allow the filling to cool for a few minutes before using.

### Tips for the Perfect Cherry Pie Filling

- **Adjust Sweetness**: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar based on your personal preference or the sweetness of the cherries. If you prefer a more tart filling, you can reduce the sugar or add more lemon juice.

- **Thicker Filling**: For a thicker filling, increase the amount of cornstarch slightly. Just be careful not to overdo it, as too much cornstarch can lead to a gummy texture.

- **Flavor Variations**: Experiment with different extracts, such as vanilla or even a splash of bourbon, to create unique flavor profiles.

### Serving Suggestions

This recipe for cherry pie filling using canned cherries is incredibly versatile. Use it as a filling for a traditional pie crust, or spoon it over a cheesecake for a luxurious dessert. It also makes a fantastic topping for pancakes, waffles, or yogurt. The possibilities are endless!

### Storage

If you have any leftover cherry filling, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

### Conclusion

In just a few simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering cherry pie filling that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. This recipe for cherry pie filling using canned cherries is not only easy to make but also allows you to enjoy the delightful taste of cherries any time of the year. So gather your ingredients, unleash your inner baker, and indulge in this delicious cherry delight!