Cherry Pie with Coconut Crumble: A Delectable Homemade Dessert

Few desserts capture the essence of comfort and tradition as perfectly as a homemade cherry pie. Adding a unique twist with a coconut crumble topping, this recipe takes a classic dessert to a whole new level. The combination of the tart cherry filling, buttery crust, and sweet, crisp coconut topping creates a harmony of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist.

This recipe is perfect for a variety of occasions, whether you're celebrating a special holiday, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to something special. Let’s dive into the steps for creating this delectable dessert.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Cherry pies are a beloved dessert worldwide, and adding coconut crumble brings a unique spin to the traditional recipe. The crumble topping not only adds a delightful crunch but also enhances the flavor profile with the subtle sweetness of coconut.

Here’s what makes this recipe so appealing:

• Versatility: This pie can be made with fresh or frozen cherries, making it accessible year-round.
• Easy to Customize: You can adjust the sweetness, add spices like cinnamon, or experiment with different types of coconut for a personalized touch.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The balance of sweet and tart flavors is universally loved, ensuring this pie is a hit with guests.

Ingredients

Before starting, gather all your ingredients. Here’s a detailed list for each component of the pie:

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• ½ tsp salt
• 6-8 tbsp cold water

For the Cherry Filling:

• 4 cups (600g) fresh or frozen pitted cherries
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp almond extract (optional)

For the Coconut Crumble Topping:

• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• ½ cup (50g) shredded coconut, unsweetened

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Incorporate Butter: Add diced butter and mix using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Water Gradually: Slowly add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring until the dough just comes together.
4. Chill: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures the crust is flaky and easy to work with.

Step 2: Make the Cherry Filling

1. Cook the Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
2. Optional Additions: Stir in almond extract for an aromatic touch, if desired.
3. Cool: Remove the filling from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Prepare the Coconut Crumble

1. Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, and shredded coconut.
2. Incorporate Butter: Add chilled, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until the topping forms a crumbly texture.
3. Refrigerate: Keep the crumble chilled until ready to use.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

1. Roll Out the Dough: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll the chilled dough on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
2. Add the Filling: Pour the cooled cherry mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly.
3. Add the Topping: Sprinkle the coconut crumble evenly over the filling.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

1. Bake: Place the pie dish on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crumble is golden and the filling is bubbling.
2. Cool: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before serving. This step is crucial for the filling to set properly.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Cherry pie tastes best when served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. However, it’s equally delightful at room temperature.
• Storage: Store the pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freezing: This pie freezes well. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and store in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Variations to Try

1. Add Spices: Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg into the crumble for a warm, aromatic twist.
2. Experiment with Coconut: Use sweetened coconut flakes for a richer topping or toasted coconut for added depth of flavor.
3. Swap the Filling: Substitute half the cherries with another fruit, such as blueberries or raspberries, for a mixed berry pie.

Final Thoughts

This cherry pie with coconut crumble is a versatile and delightful dessert that brings joy to any table. Whether you're baking for a celebration or simply indulging in a homemade treat, the combination of tart cherries and sweet coconut crumble ensures this pie will quickly become a family favorite.

Happy baking!