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Homemade Cherry Pie Filling Recipe for Perfect Cherry Pies

Homemade Cherry Pie Filling is simple to make, full of bright cherry flavor, and far better than anything from a can.

glass bowl of Homemade Cherry Pie Filling

There really is no comparison between this Homemade Cherry Pie Filling and canned pie filling. Made with real cherries, a touch of sugar and a hint of almond and vanilla, this filling strikes the perfect balance of sweet and slightly tart, letting the cherry flavor shine.

What puts me off canned filling is that metallic, tinny aftertaste. The fix is straightforward: make your own. This recipe delivers clean, vibrant cherry taste and a texture that’s perfect for pies, bars, cheesecakes, and more.

Jenifer holding a pot of homemade cherry pie filling

This filling elevates recipes like Homemade Cherry Pie and Cherry Almond Pie Bars, and it’s equally delicious spooned over ice cream or folded into layered desserts.

The Best Cherry Pie Recipe with Homemade Filling

How to make Homemade Cherry Pie Filling

Making this filling is quick: combine the ingredients in a saucepan, bring to a gentle simmer, cook briefly, and cool. The process is fast and yields a glossy, flavorful filling ready to use in your favorite desserts.

Homemade Cherry Pie Filling being stirred in a sauce pan

This homemade filling is the star of pies, but it also works beautifully in cherry cheesecake bars, layered cakes, as an ice cream topping, or wherever you want bright cherry flavor.

glass bowl of Homemade Cherry Pie Filling

I hope you enjoy this Homemade Cherry Pie Filling—it’s easy, reliable, and full of fresh cherry flavor.

Try it in:

  • THE BEST CHERRY PIE RECIPE WITH HOMEMADE FILLING

  • CHERRY ALMOND PIE BARS

  • CHERRY SWIRL CHEESECAKE WITH GRAHAM CRUST

piece of Cherry Swirl Cheesecake with Graham Crust on a small white plate with cake in the background

If you try this recipe, please rate it and leave a comment to let me know how it turned out. I’d love to hear from you and see your creations.

glass bowl of Homemade Cherry Pie Filling

Homemade Cherry Pie Filling

Bursting with real cherry flavor, this filling is simple to prepare and far superior to store-bought alternatives.
Course Dessert, Essential Skills
Cuisine American
Keyword Homemade Cherry Pie Filling
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 148kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds frozen sweet cherries
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch

Instructions

  • Stir all ingredients together in a medium saucepan until combined.
  • Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the filling thickens and the cherries are heated through.
  • Remove from heat, cool to room temperature, then use as desired.

Notes

Frozen cherries do not need to be thawed before cooking.

If using sour cherries, add an extra 1/4 cup sugar to balance the tartness.

Fresh cherries can be used with the same method for excellent results.

Nutrition

Calories: 148 kcal |
Carbohydrates: 37 g |
Protein: 1 g |
Potassium: 251 mg |
Fiber: 2 g |
Sugar: 33 g

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