Homemade Cherry Pie: A Sweet Recipe for Mental Well-Being
Hello, dear reader! 🍒
There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of a Homemade Cherry Pie wafting through the house. It brings back fond memories, doesn’t it? Baking, for me, has always been a form of therapy. It’s a wonderful way to unwind, focus, and create something delightful. Today, I want to share my cherished recipe for a Homemade Cherry Pie and explore how this simple act of baking can boost our mental well-being.
The Joy of Baking Cherry Pie
Baking a Homemade Cherry Pie isn’t just about satisfying a sweet tooth. It’s a mindful activity that can have numerous benefits for our mental health. Here are a few reasons why I find baking so therapeutic:
- Creativity: Experimenting with ingredients and decorations lets me express myself.
- Focus: Following a recipe requires concentration, helping me stay present in the moment.
- Accomplishment: The sense of achievement when I see my pie come out of the oven perfectly baked is incredibly rewarding.
- Connection: Sharing my pie with family and friends fosters a sense of community and joy.
My Favorite Homemade Cherry Pie Recipe
Ready to bake your own slice of happiness? Let’s dive into my go-to Homemade Cherry Pie recipe!
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water
For the filling:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
Preparing the Crust
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in the butter: Add the chilled, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add ice water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Chill the dough: Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour.
Making the Filling
- Prepare the cherries: In a large bowl, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Cook the filling: Transfer the cherry mixture to a saucepan and cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Assembling the Pie
- Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place the dough in the dish, pressing it gently to fit.
- Add the filling: Pour the cooled cherry filling into the crust. Dot with butter.
- Top the pie: Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Enjoy the Pie!
Let the pie cool before slicing. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence see Here.
The Sweet Benefits of Cherry Pie
Indulging in a slice of Homemade Cherry Pie can be a delightful way to improve your mood. Cherries are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can enhance brain function and reduce stress. Plus, the act of baking itself is a fantastic way to practice mindfulness and self-care.
Share the Love
Baking a Homemade Cherry Pie isn’t just about the end product; it’s about the journey and the joy it brings. So, next time you’re feeling a bit down or stressed, why not try baking this pie? Share it with loved ones, or savor it alone as a well-deserved treat. You’ll be surprised at how something so simple can bring so much happiness.
Happy baking, and take good care of yourself! 🥧❤️