Last Updated on February 25, 2024
As I was scrolling through my grandmother’s old recipe book one lazy Sunday afternoon, I stumbled upon a faded, handwritten recipe titled “Impossible Cherry Pie.” Intrigued by the name and the simple list of ingredients, I decided to give it a try. Little did I know that this would become one of my all-time favorite desserts, a true crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.
What is Impossible Cherry Pie?
Impossible Cherry Pie is a unique take on the traditional cherry pie recipe. Unlike the classic pie, which requires a separate crust and filling, this recipe magically forms its own crust while baking.
The result is a delicious combination of creamy, custard-like base with a generous layer of sweet and tangy cherry pie filling on top. It’s a delightful twist on a beloved dessert that is sure to leave your taste buds wanting more.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Impossible Cherry Pie Recipes?
What sets this Impossible Cherry Pie recipe apart from others is its simplicity and convenience. With just a few basic ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, you can whip up this impressive dessert in no time.
The Bisquick baking mix plays a key role in creating the unique crust that forms as the pie bakes, saving you the hassle of making a traditional pie crust from scratch.
The addition of almond extract adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the sweet cherries perfectly, making this pie a standout among its counterparts.
How Does It Taste Like?
The first bite of Impossible Cherry Pie is a symphony of flavors and textures. The creamy, custard-like base provides a rich and velvety backdrop for the vibrant cherry pie filling to shine.
The almond extract adds a hint of warmth, while the cinnamon-infused streusel topping adds a crunchy contrast to the luscious filling. Each mouthful is an explosion of sweet, tart, and buttery notes that will have you coming back for seconds.
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Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish:
These ingredients are typically used to make a cherry streusel coffee cake. Let’s break down the role of each ingredient:
For the cake batter:
- Sugar: Sweetens the cake batter, providing sweetness to balance the tartness of the cherry pie filling.
- Almond extract: Adds a rich almond flavor to the cake, complementing the sweetness of the cherries.
- Butter or margarine: Provides moisture, richness, and flavor to the cake batter. It contributes to the tender texture and adds a buttery taste.
- Eggs: Act as a binding agent, providing structure to the cake batter. They also contribute to the texture and richness of the cake.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake with its sweet and aromatic notes. It adds depth and richness to the taste.
- Cherry pie filling: Forms the fruity and sweet filling of the cake. It provides bursts of cherry flavor and adds moisture to the cake.
- Bisquick baking mix: Serves as the main dry ingredient, providing structure and volume to the cake batter. It simplifies the baking process by incorporating the flour, leavening agents, and salt.
- Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the cake batter. It helps to bind the ingredients together and create a smooth texture.
For the streusel topping:
Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the streusel topping, complementing the sweetness of the sugar.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the streusel topping, creating a crunchy and caramelized texture when baked.
Firm margarine or butter: Provides richness and flavor to the streusel topping. It helps to create a crumbly texture and adds a buttery taste.
Bisquick baking mix: Acts as the base for the streusel topping, providing structure and helping to bind the other ingredients together.
Step by Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pie Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, softened butter, almond extract, eggs, Bisquick baking mix, vanilla extract, and sugar until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Pour the milk mixture into the prepared pie dish. Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the mixture.
Step 4: Make the Streusel Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the firm margarine or butter, Bisquick baking mix, granulated sugar, and cinnamon until crumbly. Sprinkle the streusel topping over the cherry pie filling.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set. Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Tricks On Making Impossible Cherry Pie:
– Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
– Use high-quality cherry pie filling for a more vibrant and flavorful pie.
– Experiment with other fruit fillings such as blueberry or apple for a different twist.
– Adjust the sweetness of the streusel topping to your preference by adding more or less sugar.
– Serve the pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent touch.
Nutrition Information:
– Serving size: 1 slice
– Calories: 280
– Total Fat: 10g
– Saturated Fat: 5g
– Cholesterol: 60mg
– Sodium: 220mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 45g
– Dietary Fiber: 1g
– Sugars: 30g
– Protein: 5g
How Do I Store This Dish?
To store any leftovers of Impossible Cherry Pie, simply cover the pie dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can also freeze the pie. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
What other substitute can you use in Impossible Cherry Pie?
– Apple Pie Filling: Swap the cherry pie filling for apple pie filling for a comforting variation.
– Blueberry Pie Filling: For a burst of color and flavor, try using blueberry pie filling in place of cherries.
– Peach Pie Filling: Peaches add a delightful sweetness to the pie, making it a perfect summer treat.
– Mixed Berry Pie Filling: Combine different berries like strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a vibrant and mixed fruit pie.
– Pumpkin Pie Filling: Embrace the flavors of fall by using pumpkin pie filling and a dash of pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- oven
- pie dish
Ingredients
For the cake
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp almond extract
- 2 tbsp butter or margarine softened
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 21 oz can cherry pie filling
- 1/2 cup Bisquick baking mix
- 1/4 cup milk
For the streusel
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp firm margarine or butter
- 1/2 cup Bisquick baking mix
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pie Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, softened butter, almond extract, eggs, Bisquick baking mix, vanilla extract, and sugar until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Pour the milk mixture into the prepared pie dish. Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the mixture.
Step 4: Make the Streusel Topping
- In a separate bowl, combine the firm margarine or butter, Bisquick baking mix, granulated sugar, and cinnamon until crumbly. Sprinkle the streusel topping over the cherry pie filling.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set. Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick?
A: Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free baking mix for Bisquick in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the measurements as needed.
Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?
A: While fresh cherries can be used, you may need to adjust the sugar content and cooking time to accommodate for the differences in sweetness and moisture content.
Q: Can I use a plant-based milk alternative in place of cow’s milk?
A: Absolutely! You can use almond milk, coconut milk, or any other plant-based milk of your choice in this recipe.
Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time and reheat it before serving?
A: Yes, you can prepare the pie in advance and reheat it in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes before serving to crisp up the streusel topping.
Q: Can I add nuts or oats to the streusel topping for extra crunch?
A: Of course! Feel free to mix in chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, or rolled oats for a nutty and crunchy texture in the streusel topping.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Impossible Cherry Pie is a delightful dessert that is as impressive to look at as it is to taste. With its unique crust formation, creamy base, and flavorful cherry filling, this pie is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding, making it perfect for any occasion. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and embark on a flavorful journey with this irresistible twist on a classic favorite.