Why Cherry Pie Filling Is a Great Healthy Dessert
While many desserts can be packed with sugar and unhealthy fats, cherry pie filling stands out as a delightful option that can still satisfy your sweet tooth.
I love how it offers a burst of flavor without overwhelming my diet. The natural sweetness from cherries, combined with a few simple ingredients, creates a guilt-free treat.
Plus, cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making them a healthier choice compared to traditional sugary desserts.
Whenever I’m craving something sweet, I reach for cherry pie filling, knowing I’m indulging in a dessert that’s both delicious and a little more nutritious.
It’s a win-win!
Ingredients of Cherry Pie Filling
Making a Cherry Kool-Aid Pie is a fun and colorful way to enjoy the sweet and tart flavors of cherries. This dessert not only looks appealing but also has a nostalgic twist with the addition of Cherry Kool-Aid, which brings a playful vibe to the table.
Just imagine slicing into that pie and revealing a vibrant filling that’s both sweet and tangy. It’s like a party for your taste buds, and who doesn’t love a good pie? So, let’s explore the ingredients you’ll need to whip up this delightful treat.
Ingredients for Cherry Kool-Aid Pie:
- 3 1/2 quarts water
- 4 1/2 cups sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups Clear Jel
- 1 quart water (for mixing with Clear Jel)
- 3/4 cup cherry Jell-O gelatin (powder)
- 2 1/2 cups Karo syrup
- 1 (1/4 ounce) package cherry Kool-Aid
- 14 cups sour cherries
Now that you have your list, let’s talk about some things to keep in mind when gathering your ingredients.
First off, fresh sour cherries are ideal, but if they’re out of season, don’t sweat it. You can always opt for frozen cherries instead—they work just as well and save you from any cherry-pitting drama. Just make sure they’re thawed and drained before using.
Also, if you’re not a fan of the sweetness, you can adjust the sugar levels to suit your taste. Cooking is all about experimenting, right?
And hey, if you find yourself with a little extra filling, it freezes beautifully. Just think of it as a sweet surprise for later. Happy baking!
How to Make Cherry Pie Filling
Making Cherry Kool-Aid Pie is a delightful journey that starts with creating a luscious cherry pie filling. Grab your 14 cups of sour cherries; if you’re like me and have a love-hate relationship with pitting cherries, frozen cherries can come to the rescue. They’re just as tasty and save you from the frustration of a cherry-pitting party gone wrong.
Now, let’s plunge into the fun part. First, in a large pot, bring 3 1/2 quarts of water, 4 1/2 cups of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to a boil. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen, and you might even feel like a kitchen wizard at this point.
While you wait for that bubbly magic, mix 2 1/2 cups of Clear Jel with 1 quart of water in a separate bowl. This mixture is key; it’s what thickens our pie filling into that perfect gooey goodness.
Once your water mixture is at a rolling boil, stir in the Clear Jel blend and bring it back to a boil. It’s like watching a science experiment unfold, and trust me, it’s totally satisfying. After that, remove it from the heat and add in 2 1/2 cups of Karo syrup, followed by your 3/4 cup of cherry Jell-O gelatin and 1 (1/4 ounce) package of cherry Kool-Aid. The colors will make you feel like a kid again, and the tangy scent is simply irresistible.
Finally, fold in those lovely cherries, mixing gently so they’re well coated in that vibrant concoction. Now you’re ready to fill some jars! Ladle the mixture into 7 quart hot, sterile jars, making sure to leave a 1/2 inch headspace—this is important for sealing.
Seal them up, and then it’s time for a hot bath—no, not for you, but for the jars! Process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Afterward, let them cool on kitchen towels, and once you’re sure they’re sealed, tighten the rings.
And there you have it, your homemade cherry pie filling, ready to be transformed into a tasty Cherry Kool-Aid Pie or saved for later. What a win-win!
Cherry Pie Filling Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up, there are plenty of substitutions and variations for cherry pie filling that can elevate your Cherry Kool-Aid Pie.
For a twist, try using other fruits like blueberries or raspberries; they pair beautifully with the cherry flavor. You can also experiment with different flavored gelatin, like strawberry or grape, to create unique taste profiles.
If you want a touch of tartness, adding a splash of lemon juice can brighten the filling.
Finally, consider using almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty undertone that complements the cherries perfectly.
Have fun with it!
What to Serve with Cherry Pie Filling
Cherry pie filling is a delightful treat that pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. I love serving it over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that classic dessert experience.
Whipped cream is another favorite; it adds a light, airy touch. For a fun twist, I sometimes drizzle chocolate sauce over the pie filling on a cheesecake.
You can also use it as a topping for pancakes or waffles, making breakfast feel like a treat! If you’re feeling adventurous, try it with yogurt for a delicious snack.
There’s no shortage of options to elevate cherry pie filling!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing the Cherry Kool-Aid Pie, I’ve found a few tips that can really enhance the experience.
First, chill your mixing bowl and beaters for better whipping results when making the cream topping. If you want an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract.
For a fun twist, try using a graham cracker crust instead of the traditional pie crust.
Finally, let the pie set in the fridge for at least four hours to achieve the perfect consistency.
Trust me, these little touches make all the difference in flavor and presentation! Enjoy your pie!