Pretzel Crust Cherry Pie
A crunchy pretzel crust topped with a creamy filling creates a deliciously salty-sweet cherry pie, perfect for parties or casual gatherings with a unique twist on dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix melted margarine and 3 tablespoons sugar.
- Stir in crushed pretzels to coat well.
- Pat pretzel mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
- Allow to cool before filling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you're short on pretzels, crushed graham crackers can be a tasty substitute for the crust. To enhance the filling, add a splash of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. This dessert pairs beautifully with other American recipes, like a classic vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pie chilled for the best texture, and consider topping it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It makes a great dessert for summer gatherings, pairing well with fresh fruit salads or a light, refreshing beverage. You might also enjoy it alongside a slice of White Mountain Cake for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cherry pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, it can be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a low oven until heated through, maintaining the crust's crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pretzel Crust Cherry Pie contains roughly 657 calories, with 6g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 474mg per serving (21% 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 cherries instead of canned for the filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Just ensure they are pitted and sweetened to taste. You'll need about 4 cups of fresh cherries for the same flavor as canned. Simmer them with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create a pie filling consistency before pouring it into the crust.
Is there a way to make this pie gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can easily make this pie gluten-free by using gluten-free pretzels for the crust. Ensure that all other ingredients, like the cream cheese and sugar, are also certified gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy a slice of this delicious treat without worry.
How can I make the pie filling thicker?
To achieve a thicker filling, increase the amount of cornstarch in your cherry mixture. Start with an additional tablespoon and adjust to your desired consistency. Cooking the filling longer will also help reduce excess liquid, ensuring a firmer pie that holds its shape when sliced.
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).