Name: Hillbilly Pie (Old-Fashioned Poor Man’s Cherry Pie)
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Crust:; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 6 to 8 tbsp ice water; For the Cherry Filling:; 4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted; 1 cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup cornstarch; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp almond extract (optional)

Hillbilly Pie, often affectionately called the “Old-Fashioned Poor Man’s Cherry Pie,” is a delightful dessert that embodies the essence of rustic American baking. This pie, with its sweet and tart homemade cherry filling, brings a sense of nostalgia and comfort to the table. Originating from humble beginnings, Hillbilly Pie is a wonderful reminder of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It’s a dessert that evokes memories of family gatherings and summertime picnics, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this pie is easy to make and sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Crust: You can learn more about this topic.

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
6 to 8 tbsp ice water

For the Cherry Filling: Check out our related guide for more tips.

4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
1 cup granulated sugar
¼ cup cornstarch
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp almond extract (optional)

Steps / Instructions

Prepare the Pie Crust: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Do not overmix. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Make the Cherry Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and almond extract (if using). Stir gently and cook until the mixture begins to bubble and thicken, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out one dough disc to fit your pie pan. Place it in the pie pan, allowing the excess to hang over the edges.
Add the Filling: Pour the cooled cherry filling into the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
Top the Pie: Roll out the second dough disc and place it over the filling. Seal the edges by crimping with your fingers or a fork. Cut slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
Bake the Pie: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This will help the filling set up nicely.

Tips & Tricks

To achieve the best results with your Hillbilly Pie, consider the following tips:

Chill Your Ingredients: Make sure your butter and water are very cold; this helps create a flaky crust.
Fresh vs. Frozen Cherries: If using frozen cherries, do not thaw them before cooking; this helps maintain the proper texture.
Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best results.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the pie crust and filling a day in advance, making assembly and baking easier.

Variations

Feel free to customize your Hillbilly Pie with these variations:

Mixed Berry Pie: Substitute cherries with a mix of berries like blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries for a colorful twist.
Nuts and Spices: Add a handful of chopped nuts or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the cherry filling for additional flavor.
Vegan Option: Use a plant-based butter alternative and a vegan pie crust recipe to make this dessert suitable for a vegan diet.

Serving Suggestions

Hillbilly Pie is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it further with these serving suggestions:

Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
Serve warm with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel for added sweetness.
Pair it with a glass of sweet tea or a refreshing lemonade to complete the experience.

Conclusion

Hillbilly Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of history, a taste of tradition, and a comforting reminder of simpler times. With its easy preparation and delightful flavor, it’s the perfect addition to any gathering or a sweet treat for your family. Try this recipe and experience the joy of homemade cherry pie that brings everyone together. We’d love to hear about your baking adventures and any personal touches you add to this classic recipe!