Embrace the sweet symphony of flavors with our Easy Bourbon Cherry Pie Filling—a delightful twist on the classic that introduces the rich and warm notes of bourbon to luscious, ruby-red cherries. This simple recipe not only adds a touch of sophistication to your pies but also invites you to savor the magic of homemade goodness. Join us as we explore the ingredients, guide you through the step-by-step instructions, share cook notes and variations, and provide keto and low-carb versions. Get ready to elevate your dessert game with the indulgent charm of Easy Bourbon Cherry Pie Filling!
Ingredients
For the Bourbon Cherry Pie Filling:
- 4 cups pitted cherries, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Crafting the Bourbon Cherry Pie Filling:
- Prepare the Cherries: If using fresh cherries, pit and halve them. If using frozen cherries, make sure they are thawed and drained.
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, bourbon, cornstarch, almond extract, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Stir and Cook: Stir the mixture well to combine the ingredients. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Simmer to Perfection: Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the filling cook for 8-10 minutes or until it thickens and the cherries are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust Consistency: If the filling is too thin, mix a little more cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add it to the simmering filling and stir until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Add Bourbon Magic: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in an extra splash of bourbon for that delightful kick of flavor.
- Cool and Store: Allow the bourbon cherry pie filling to cool completely before using it in your favorite pie crust. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.
Cook Notes
- Choose Your Bourbon Wisely: Select a bourbon that you enjoy sipping on, as its flavor will shine through in the pie filling. Whether you prefer a smooth and mellow bourbon or one with robust notes, it’s all about personal taste.
- Adjust Sugar to Taste: The sweetness of cherries can vary, so taste the filling as it simmers and adjust the sugar accordingly. Add more if your cherries are tart, or reduce it if they are very sweet.
- Experiment with Almond Extract: Almond extract adds a subtle layer of flavor. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your preference.
Variations
1. Berry Medley Bliss:
Mix things up by adding a variety of berries to the filling. Blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries complement the cherries beautifully for a burst of mixed berry goodness.
2. Spiced Elegance:
Infuse the filling with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of cloves. This variation adds a cozy and aromatic touch to your bourbon cherry pie.
3. Vanilla Bean Dream:
Take a gourmet approach by scraping the seeds of a vanilla bean into the filling. The vanilla enhances the overall richness and depth of flavor.
Keto Versions
For those on a keto journey, consider these modifications:
- Low-Carb Sweeteners: Substitute granulated sugar with keto-friendly sweeteners like erythritol or monk fruit to keep the carb count low.
- Almond Flour Thickener: Replace cornstarch with a small amount of almond flour or xanthan gum to thicken the filling without adding extra carbs.
- Mind the Bourbon Carbs: Bourbon contains some carbs, so be mindful of your overall carb intake if you choose to include it. You can reduce the quantity or omit it for a lower-carb version.
Low-Carb Version
To cater to low-carb preferences, make these adjustments:
- Low-Carb Sweeteners: Opt for low-carb sweeteners to replace granulated sugar while keeping the carb content in check.
- Almond Flour Thickener: Use almond flour or xanthan gum as a thickening agent instead of cornstarch to maintain a low-carb profile.
- Consider Bourbon Extract: If you want to retain the bourbon flavor without the carbs, use bourbon extract or a hint of bourbon-flavored stevia.
Easy Bourbon Cherry Pie Filling is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create desserts that dance on your taste buds. Whether you stick to the classic or explore enticing variations, the addition of bourbon elevates the humble cherry pie to a sophisticated delight. So, roll out your pie crust, spoon in this heavenly filling, and get ready to savor the magic of bourbon-infused cherries. Here’s to the joy of creating and enjoying desserts that leave a lasting impression!
