Thanksgiving Apple-Cherry Pie
A flaky, tender apple-cherry pie crust perfect for classic Thanksgiving desserts, pairing well with sweet fruit fillings and suitable for both novice and experienced bakers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour and salt well.
- Cut in shortening and melted butter until coarse crumbs form.
- Add cold water and vinegar, mixing with a fork until the dough begins to come together.
- Form the dough into a ball.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface.
- Carefully lift the rolled pastry to a pie plate, handling gently as it may tear.
- Repeat to make a second crust if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, ensure your shortening and butter are very cold. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of butter, though it may alter the texture slightly. Adding a teaspoon of sugar to the dough can enhance the flavor. For best results, let the dough chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before rolling it out.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Thanksgiving Apple-Cherry Pie warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with Baked Pumpkin Pudding for dessert. Consider serving it alongside a light Green Goddess Salad for a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweetness of the pie.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can freeze the pie, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, ensuring the crust remains crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Thanksgiving Apple-Cherry Pie contains roughly 335 calories, with 2g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1482mg per serving (64% 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 make the pie crust ahead of time?
Yes, the pie crust can be made in advance. Prepare the dough and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember to let it thaw in the fridge before rolling it out.
What can I use instead of cherries?
If you don't have cherries, you can substitute with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries. Alternatively, you can use a mixed fruit filling by combining apples with any of these berries, which will add a delightful tartness to the pie.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. You can also check for doneness by inserting a knife into the filling; it should come out clean or with just a few juices if it's set. Keep an eye on it to prevent overbaking.
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).