Mock Cherry Pie
A tangy and sweet mock cherry pie filling using cranberries and raisins, perfect for those seeking a fruit-filled dessert with a rich, fruity flavor. Suitable for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Take cold water in a saucepan and bring to a boil; boil for 5 minutes.
- Thicken the water with starch or flour and allow to cool.
- Use the cooled mixture as filling for two 9-inch pies.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of dried cherries and cranberries. If you don't have brown sugar, white sugar can be substituted, though it will alter the flavor slightly. Ensure your filling is well thickened to prevent a soggy crust; use cornstarch for a clearer filling. Pairing with Cream Wafer Cookies can enhance the dessert experience.
Serving Suggestions
This Mock Cherry Pie makes a delightful dessert on its own, but can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with 24 Hour Christmas Salad for a festive meal. Serve it at gatherings or holiday parties for a unique twist on traditional pies.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Mock Cherry Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it heats through without drying out. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mock Cherry Pie contains roughly 4403 calories, with 8g protein, 591g carbohydrates, and 243g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (80% of the Daily Value), potassium (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries can be used, but they will need to be sweetened significantly since they are much more tart than dried cranberries. Consider adding extra sugar to balance the flavors, or using a combination of fresh and dried for depth.
What can I use instead of butter?
If you're looking for a non-dairy option, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. This will keep the pie rich while accommodating vegan diets.
How do I ensure my pie crust isn’t soggy?
To prevent a soggy crust, pre-bake the pie shell for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This creates a barrier that helps keep the crust crisp. You can also brush the crust with a beaten egg before filling to add an extra layer of protection.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).