Cherry pie is a beloved dessert enjoyed by many, and canned cherry pie filling offers a convenient shortcut for bakers. Understanding the quantity of filling in a typical can is essential for proper recipe planning and execution.
A standard can of cherry pie filling typically contains 21 ounces of product. This amount is suitable for making one 9-inch pie. Some brands may offer larger cans with 30 or 32 ounces, which can be used for deeper pies or multiple desserts.
Canned cherry pie filling provides a ready-to-use option that saves time in the kitchen. It contains pitted cherries in a sweetened sauce, often with added thickeners and flavorings. Bakers can easily pour the contents into a prepared crust and bake according to their recipe’s instructions.
Understanding Pie Filling Can Sizes
Cherry pie filling cans come in various sizes to accommodate different baking needs. The most common size for cherry pie filling is 21 ounces (595 grams).
Some brands offer larger cans, typically around 30 ounces (850 grams). These are ideal for deep-dish pies or when extra filling is desired.
A standard 9-inch pie generally requires about 3 cups of filling. This translates to approximately two 21-ounce cans for a generously filled pie.
Here’s a quick reference guide for can sizes and their uses:
| Can Size | Typical Use |
|---|---|
| 21 oz | Standard pie |
| 30 oz | Deep-dish pie |
It’s important to check the recipe requirements and adjust accordingly. Some bakers prefer a fuller pie and may use additional filling.
When purchasing canned cherry pie filling, always check the label for exact measurements. This ensures you have the right amount for your specific recipe needs.
Types of Cherry Pie Filling
Cherry pie fillings come in various forms, each offering unique flavors and textures. These options allow bakers to choose the most suitable filling for their pies based on convenience, taste preferences, and dietary needs.
Canned Cherry Pie Filling
Canned cherry pie filling is a popular choice for its convenience and consistency. It typically contains cherries, sugar, water, and thickeners like cornstarch or modified food starch. Most cans hold 21 ounces of filling, enough for a standard 9-inch pie.
Some brands offer light or no-sugar-added versions for health-conscious consumers. Canned fillings often include red food coloring to enhance the appearance. They may also contain small amounts of lemon juice and almond extract for flavor depth.
Store-bought fillings save time but can be sweeter than homemade versions. Bakers can customize canned fillings by adding lemon zest, cinnamon, or vanilla to suit their taste preferences.
Homemade Cherry Pie Filling
Homemade cherry pie filling allows for complete control over ingredients and flavor. Fresh or frozen cherries form the base, with sugar added to taste. Cornstarch or tapioca starch thickens the mixture.
A cherry pitter helps remove pits efficiently. Lemon juice brightens the flavor and helps preserve color. Many recipes include almond extract for a traditional cherry pie taste.
Bakers can adjust sweetness and spices to their liking. Common additions include cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla. Some recipes incorporate small amounts of cloves or ginger for complexity.
Homemade fillings often have a more natural texture and cherry-forward flavor compared to canned versions. They require more preparation time but offer a fresher taste and customizable sweetness level.
Specialty Pie Fillings
Specialty cherry pie fillings cater to specific dietary needs or flavor preferences. Sugar-free options use artificial sweeteners or fruit juice concentrates. These fillings appeal to diabetics or those watching sugar intake.
Organic fillings use cherries grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. They often contain fewer additives than conventional canned fillings.
Some specialty fillings combine cherries with other fruits like blueberries or blackberries for unique flavor profiles. Artisanal brands may offer fillings made with rare cherry varieties or heirloom fruits.
Low-acid fillings are available for those with sensitive stomachs. These products use specific cherry varieties or processing methods to reduce acidity while maintaining flavor.
Preparation and Cooking Tips
Mastering cherry pie preparation involves key techniques for the crust, filling enhancement, and overall assembly. These tips ensure a delicious homemade dessert using canned cherry pie filling.
Preparing the Pie Crust
Start with a 9-inch pie pan for a standard cherry pie. For a flakier crust, use cold butter and ice water. Cut the butter into small cubes and work it into the flour quickly to prevent melting.
Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling. This step helps prevent shrinkage during baking.
For a golden finish, brush the top crust with an egg wash before baking. This mixture of beaten egg and water adds shine and color.
Enhancing Canned Fillings
Improve canned cherry pie filling by adding fresh or frozen cherries. This increases the fruit content and enhances the texture.
Mix in 1/4 cup of granulated sugar to boost sweetness if desired. A tablespoon of lemon juice can brighten the flavor.
To thicken runny filling, add 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Mix it with a small amount of cold water before stirring into the filling to prevent lumps.
Creating the Perfect Cherry Pie
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) for an initial high-heat bake. This helps set the crust quickly.
Use two 21-ounce cans of filling for a deep-dish pie. For a standard pie, one can is usually sufficient.
Dot the top of the filling with small pieces of butter before adding the top crust. This adds richness to the filling.
Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. This prevents the filling from becoming too watery.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. Let cool before serving to allow the filling to set.
Alternative Uses for Cherry Pie Filling
Cherry pie filling offers versatility beyond traditional pies. This sweet, fruity mixture can enhance various desserts and even savory dishes with its vibrant flavor and convenience.
No-Bake Desserts
Cherry pie filling shines in quick, no-bake treats. Mix it into cheesecake batter for a cherry swirl cheesecake. Layer it with vanilla pudding and graham crackers for an easy cherry trifle. Spoon it over pound cake or angel food cake for a simple dessert.
For a cool summer treat, blend the filling with vanilla ice cream and refreeze for cherry ice cream. It also makes an excellent topping for yogurt parfaits or oatmeal. Combine it with whipped cream for a light, fruity mousse.
Additional Fruit Mix-Ins
Enhance cherry pie filling by mixing in complementary fruits. Add fresh or frozen raspberries for tartness and texture. Diced apples provide crunch and balance the sweetness. Cranberries bring a holiday twist and extra zing.
Sliced peaches create a delightful peach-cherry combo. For a tropical flair, mix in chunks of pineapple or mango. Blueberries or blackberries add depth and color.
These fruit combinations work well in cobblers, crumbles, or as toppings for pancakes and waffles. They also make excellent fillings for turnovers or hand pies.
Alcoholic Flavor Enhancers
Spirits can elevate cherry pie filling for adult desserts. Add a splash of brandy for warmth and complexity. Bourbon imparts a rich, oaky flavor that complements the cherries.
Try cherry liqueur to intensify the cherry taste. Amaretto adds a pleasant almond note. Rum brings a tropical essence to the mix.
Use these boozy cherry fillings in trifles, over ice cream, or as a topping for cheesecake. They also work well in cocktails – try a cherry bourbon smash or a brandy-spiked cherry sauce over vanilla ice cream.
Varieties of Cherry Used in Pie Fillings
Cherries used in pie fillings come in different types, each offering unique flavors and textures. The choice of cherry variety significantly impacts the taste and consistency of the final pie.
Tart Cherries
Tart cherries, also known as sour cherries, are prized for their bright, acidic flavor. The Montmorency variety is most common for pie fillings. These cherries have a vibrant red color and a tangy taste that balances well with added sugar.
Tart cherries hold their shape well during baking, creating a pleasant texture in pies. They’re often used in traditional cherry pies and are favored for their ability to maintain a firm consistency even after cooking.
Many commercial pie fillings use tart cherries due to their consistent flavor and appealing color. These cherries are typically harvested in summer and are available fresh, frozen, or canned.
Sweet Cherries
Sweet cherries offer a milder, less acidic flavor profile compared to their tart counterparts. Popular varieties include Bing, Rainier, and Lambert cherries. These cherries have a deep red to almost black color when ripe.
Sweet cherries tend to be juicier and softer than tart cherries. This can result in a more liquid filling, which may require additional thickeners during pie preparation.
Fresh sweet cherries are often used in homemade pie fillings. They provide a natural sweetness that reduces the need for added sugar. Some bakers mix sweet and tart cherries to achieve a balanced flavor.
Frozen Cherries
Frozen cherries offer convenience and year-round availability for pie fillings. Both tart and sweet varieties are available frozen. These cherries are typically picked at peak ripeness and frozen quickly to preserve flavor and texture.
Using frozen cherries can result in a slightly softer texture in the final pie. They often release more liquid during thawing and baking, which may require adjustments to thickening agents in the recipe.
Frozen cherries are a popular choice for home bakers. They eliminate the need for pitting fresh cherries and can be used directly in pie fillings without thawing, making pie preparation quicker and easier.
Storage and Preservation
Proper storage methods can extend the shelf life of cherry pie filling and maintain its quality. Different techniques are suitable for various scenarios, from short-term refrigeration to long-term freezing and canning.
Refrigerating Canned Filling
Opened cans of cherry pie filling should be stored in the refrigerator. Transfer the unused portion to an airtight container. This will prevent the filling from absorbing odors and maintain its flavor. Refrigerated cherry pie filling typically lasts 5-7 days.
For optimal freshness, use a clean spoon each time you scoop out filling. This prevents introducing bacteria that could cause spoilage. Check for signs of mold or off-odors before using refrigerated filling.
Freezing Homemade Filling
Freezing is an excellent option for preserving homemade cherry pie filling. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave about 1 inch of headspace to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label containers with the date and contents. Frozen cherry pie filling can last 3-4 months while maintaining good quality. Thaw frozen filling in the refrigerator overnight before use.
For best results, add a small amount of lemon juice before freezing. This helps preserve color and flavor.
Canning and Jarring
Canning cherry pie filling allows for long-term storage at room temperature. Use sterilized jars and follow proper canning procedures to ensure safety.
Ingredients for canning:
- 6 cups pitted cherries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup Clear Jel (modified cornstarch)
- 1 cup water or cherry juice
Process filled jars in a boiling water bath for 30 minutes (adjust for altitude). Properly canned cherry pie filling can last up to 18 months when stored in a cool, dark place.
Always inspect canned goods for signs of spoilage before use. Discard any jars with bulging lids or off-odors.
Nutritional Information
A standard 21-ounce can of cherry pie filling contains approximately 684 calories. This caloric content may vary slightly between brands and recipes.
The primary macronutrient in cherry pie filling is carbohydrates, accounting for about 98% of the total calories. Fat and protein make up the remaining 2% in minimal amounts.
Sugar is a significant component of canned cherry pie filling. The high sugar content contributes to its sweet taste and preservative properties.
Cherry pie filling provides some nutritional benefits. It contains vitamin C, with a 21-ounce can offering about 24% of the daily recommended value. Potassium is also present, providing approximately 13% of the daily value per can.
For those monitoring portion sizes, here’s a breakdown of calorie content:
- 1 ounce: 33-34 calories
- 1/8 can: 85 calories
- 1 cup: 300-317 calories
It’s important to note that these values are averages and may differ between brands. Always check the nutrition label on the specific product for the most accurate information.
