Cherry pie is one of those iconic American desserts that makes me think of summer picnics and Fourth of July celebrations – there’s something so classic and nostalgic about that ruby-red filling in a golden, flaky crust. I love making cherry desserts when fresh cherries are in season, but honestly, this is one pie that also works beautifully with canned cherries year-round, making it perfect for satisfying those cherry pie cravings any time. These 10 cherry pies recipe ideas prove that cherry desserts can be wonderfully varied, from traditional pies to elegant tarts that’ll make this beloved classic shine on your dessert table.

The Cherry Pie with Flaky Butter Crust is classic perfection with that tender, buttery pastry. The Cherry Dessert with Vanilla Ice Cream is timeless à la mode deliciousness, while the Cherry Tart with Almond Filling combines two flavors that were meant to be together. The Cherry Pie with Lattice Crust creates that gorgeous woven top, and the Cherry Dessert with Whipped Cream adds lightness. The Cherry Pie with Fresh Cherries celebrates peak-season fruit, the Cherry Dessert with Chocolate Drizzle brings decadence, and the Cherry Pie with Sweet Crumb Topping is easier than double crust. The Cherry Tart with Graham Cracker Crust simplifies preparation, while the Cherry Dessert with Cream Cheese Filling adds tangy richness.

What makes cherry pie so special is how it’s sweet-tart and perfectly balanced, that gorgeous red color makes it naturally festive for holidays, and honestly, few pies are quite as American as cherry pie. It’s perfect for patriotic celebrations, it’s beautiful on any dessert table, and that combination of tender cherries and flaky crust is simply classic. This is the pie that represents summer, celebrations, and pure American baking tradition – simple, delicious, and timelessly beloved!

1. Cherry Pie with Flaky Butter Crust

There is something so comforting about a cherry pie wrapped in a truly flaky, buttery crust. It’s the kind of dessert that carries memories—summer afternoons, stained fingers from picking cherries, and that warm feeling when the whole house filled with the smell of bubbling fruit. Whenever I make this pie, I’m instantly taken back to quieter days, when baking felt like a slow ritual instead of a rush. The buttery layers hold the sweet cherry filling so gently, almost like the pie is hugging the fruit. And when it comes out of the oven, golden and fragrant, it feels like a little celebration of warmth, patience, and home.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 6–8 tablespoons ice water

For the filling:

• 4 cups pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Steps

Step 1: Make the crust by cutting cold butter into the flour, salt, and sugar until the mixture resembles soft pebbles. Add ice water slowly, just enough for the dough to come together without sticking. Form two discs, wrap them, and chill. This step always feels grounding—your hands slow down, the kitchen grows quiet, and the dough begins its transformation into something comforting and flaky.

Step 2: Mix cherries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla. Let it sit until the cherries release their juices, creating a glossy, sweet mixture. It’s always such a beautiful moment watching the fruit soften and brighten, as if the ingredients are waking up together and blending into a filling that feels warm even before baking.

Step 3: Roll out one dough disc and lay it in the pie dish. Pour in the cherry filling, spreading it evenly. The pie starts to look alive with color—the deep red cherries against the pale crust make the whole dish feel inviting, like a promise of something sweet and comforting.

Step 4: Roll the second disc and lay it over the top. Seal edges gently and cut small vents for steam. Brush with egg wash. This stage always feels tender, like tucking the pie in before it goes into the oven, giving it that extra touch of care and intentionality.

Step 5: Bake until the crust is golden and the filling bubbles slowly through the vents. Let cool so the juices thicken. Each slice feels like a soft reminder of home—warm, sweet, and familiar.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8

2. Cherry Dessert with Vanilla Ice Cream

This cherry dessert reminds me of warm evenings when everyone gathered in the kitchen, waiting for something sweet to finish baking. The cherries bubble into a rich filling that feels both nostalgic and soothing, and pairing it with vanilla ice cream makes every bite melt in the most comforting way. When you spoon warm cherries over cold ice cream, there’s a moment when everything just slows down—the steam rises, the cream softens, and life feels gentler. It’s simple, honest, and full of warmth, the kind of dessert you make when you want to bring a little joy to the table without any fuss.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cherries
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 prepared pie crust or shortbread base
• Vanilla ice cream

Steps

Step 1: Combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla in a saucepan. Let the mixture heat slowly, stirring as it thickens into a glossy, bubbling sauce. The smell alone brings comfort, like a warm hug spreading through the kitchen. It feels like one of those simple, reliable recipes that never disappoints.

Step 2: Spread the thickened cherry filling over a baked crust or shortbread base, letting it settle naturally. The bright color and warm fragrance always create a sense of anticipation, like something cozy is about to unfold.

Step 3: Let the dessert cool slightly. This pause lets the cherries settle and deepen in flavor, and in that quiet moment you can feel the warmth of the dish lingering around you.

Step 4: Cut into squares or spoon into bowls. The texture is soft, warm, and slightly sticky—the kind of dessert that comforts without trying too hard.

Step 5: Top each serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold cream melts over the warm cherries, creating a silky swirl of sweetness and warmth.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6

3. Cherry Tart with Almond Filling

There’s something especially elegant yet deeply comforting about pairing cherries with almond filling. The almond layer bakes into a soft, fragrant base that holds the fruit like a warm cradle, while the cherries on top create bursts of sweetness in every bite. This tart always reminds me of moments when I wanted something a bit special without feeling complicated. When it comes out of the oven, golden and glossy, it feels like the kind of treat you’d share on a quiet afternoon with someone you care about, letting the flavors unfold slowly and beautifully.

Ingredients

For the almond filling:

• ½ cup butter, softened
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

For the cherry topping:

• 3 cups cherries
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Pie or tart crust

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the almond filling by beating butter and sugar until creamy. Add the egg, almond flour, and vanilla. The mixture becomes thick and fragrant, almost like almond-scented clouds. Watching it come together feels peaceful, like stirring softness into sweetness.

Step 2: Spread the filling into your tart crust. It smooths easily and creates a tender base for the fruit, almost like preparing a soft bed the cherries will rest on.

Step 3: Toss cherries with sugar and cornstarch, letting the juices coat them. They shine beautifully, looking almost like gems as they settle into the tart.

Step 4: Arrange cherries over the almond filling. As the tart bakes, the almond layer rises gently around the cherries, creating the most comforting textures—warm, soft, nutty, and sweet.

Step 5: Bake until golden and fragrant. Cool before slicing. Each bite brings tender almond filling and juicy cherries—a perfect balance.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8

4. Cherry Pie with Lattice Crust

A lattice crust always brings such charm to a cherry pie. There’s something soothing about weaving the strips, almost like braiding a memory into the dessert. The bubbling cherries peek through the golden lattice, creating a warm, inviting look that feels timeless. This pie always reminds me of weekends when I had time to slow down, breathe, and let baking feel like therapy. The cherry filling thickens beautifully, and the lattice sits on top like a pretty little blanket, making the whole pie feel special.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cherries
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• Double pie crust
• Egg wash

Steps

Step 1: Mix cherries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla. Let the mixture rest so the juices release and thicken slightly. The glossy fruit filling smells warm and inviting, like a piece of summer preserved in your kitchen.

Step 2: Roll out the bottom crust and place it in your dish. Pour in the cherry mixture, letting it settle comfortably. The red of the cherries always looks stunning against the pale dough, giving the pie a beautiful start.

Step 3: Cut the second crust into strips and weave them into a lattice. The weaving feels gentle and almost meditative, the kind of step that slows you down in the nicest way.

Step 4: Brush the lattice with egg wash and bake until the crust turns golden and the cherries bubble through the openings. The bubbling always feels like the pie is telling you it’s ready.

Step 5: Cool before slicing so the filling sets. Every piece holds beauty—sweet cherries framed by golden, flaky lines.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8

5. Cherry Dessert with Whipped Cream

This dessert is soft, light, and comforting—perfect for evenings when you want something sweet without feeling heavy. The warm cherries create a bright, silky filling, and the fresh whipped cream adds a cloud-like topping that melts beautifully over every bite. It always reminds me of simple celebrations, the kind where dessert didn’t need to be fancy—just warm fruit, soft cream, and a few quiet moments to enjoy something made with love.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cherries
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Shortbread or biscuit base
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Steps

Step 1: Heat cherries with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice until the mixture thickens into a glossy sauce. The scent feels comforting and familiar, filling your kitchen with sweet warmth.

Step 2: Spread the cherry filling over a shortbread or biscuit crust, letting it settle naturally. The contrast of textures—soft cherries over firm crust—already feels promising.

Step 3: Let the dessert cool slightly. This pause allows the filling to settle, giving the dessert structure and deeper flavor.

Step 4: Whip the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until light and airy. The cream becomes soft, cloud-like, and comforting.

Step 5: Spoon the whipped cream over each serving. Every bite blends warm cherries and cool cream—sweet, soothing, and incredibly satisfying.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6

6. Cherry Pie with Fresh Cherries

There is something wonderfully grounding about making a cherry pie using fresh cherries. Pitting them may take a little time, but it’s the kind of quiet, gentle work that lets you breathe for a moment and slow down. Fresh cherries have a brightness that fills the pie with a natural sweetness you simply can’t find in canned filling. When the juices bubble in the oven, the scent becomes warm and familiar, like stepping back into a memory of summer days and simple joys. Every slice tastes vibrant and soft, wrapped in a cozy blanket of buttery crust. It’s a pie that feels honest and full of heart.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Double pie crust
• 1 egg for brushing

Steps

Step 1: Combine the fresh cherries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla. Let the mixture rest so the cherries release natural juices. Stir occasionally and watch as the fruit becomes glossy and fragrant. It’s a simple transformation, but such a beautiful one—the cherries softening and sweetening as they’re gently coated.

Step 2: Roll out the bottom crust and lay it in the pie dish, pressing lightly along the edges. Pour in the cherry mixture, allowing the fruit to settle naturally. The fresh cherries look vivid and bright, giving the pie a lively, welcoming appearance even before baking.

Step 3: Add the top crust—either whole or lattice style—sealing the edges gently. Brushing with egg wash gives the pie that golden, bakery-style finish. This moment, smoothing the crust before baking, always feels like tucking something cherished into place.

Step 4: Bake until the cherry juices bubble slowly through the vents and the crust becomes deep golden. The aroma of fresh fruit fills the room with warm sweetness, wrapping the whole kitchen in comfort.

Step 5: Let the pie cool until the filling thickens. Each slice carries the taste of real cherries—bright, soft, and purely joyful.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8

7. Cherry Dessert with Chocolate Drizzle

There is something irresistible about pairing cherries with chocolate—the sweetness of the fruit and the richness of the chocolate blend into a dessert that feels both indulgent and comforting. This dish always reminds me of evenings when I wanted something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Warm cherries create a silky filling, and the chocolate drizzle melts slightly into the fruit, creating beautiful streaks of sweetness. It’s a simple dessert that feels elegant, like something you’d enjoy slowly with a spoon while the world pauses around you.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cherries
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Shortbread or cookie crust
• ½ cup chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon oil

Steps

Step 1: Cook cherries with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice until thick and glossy. The mixture grows richer in color and scent, filling the kitchen with the kind of warmth that makes you smile without realizing it.

Step 2: Spread the warm cherry filling over the crust. Watching the fruit settle into place feels soothing, almost like smoothing a warm blanket.

Step 3: Melt chocolate chips with oil until silky. The chocolate becomes smooth and pourable, filling the room with its deep, comforting aroma.

Step 4: Drizzle the melted chocolate in slow, delicate lines over the cherry surface. The contrast of deep brown over bright red creates a beautiful, tempting dessert.

Step 5: Chill or serve slightly warm. Each bite carries sweetness, richness, and the gentle melt of chocolate—a simple luxury.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6

8. Cherry Pie with Sweet Crumb Topping

A crumb topping gives cherry pie a rustic charm—a soft, buttery layer that bakes into golden sweetness. This pie always brings me back to times when desserts didn’t have to be perfect; they just needed heart. The crumbs melt slightly into the cherries, absorbing their juices and turning tender and sweet. It’s a dessert that feels like home, warm and a little nostalgic. The smell alone—a blend of fruit and buttery crumble—can make the whole house feel softer and more welcoming.

Ingredients

For the filling:

• 4 cups cherries
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the crumble:

• 1 cup flour
• ½ cup sugar
• ½ cup butter, cold and cubed

Crust:

• Single pie crust

Steps

Step 1: Mix cherries with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Let them sit so the juices thicken and take on a glossy sheen. The scent becomes warm and bright, like the beginning of something comforting.

Step 2: Prepare the crumb topping by mixing flour, sugar, and cold butter until soft clumps form. The mixture should feel buttery and slightly sandy, perfect for creating a tender crumble that melts into the filling.

Step 3: Pour the cherry filling into the pie crust. The rich red color makes the pie look beautiful even before baking.

Step 4: Sprinkle the crumble generously over the top. As the pie bakes, the topping turns golden and crisp, absorbing just enough cherry juice to become sweet and delicate.

Step 5: Cool before slicing. Each bite carries warm fruit wrapped in buttery crumble—a simple pleasure.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8

9. Cherry Tart with Graham Cracker Crust

There is something wonderfully simple and comforting about a graham cracker crust paired with cherries. The crust brings a warm, honeyed sweetness that blends beautifully with the bright, juicy fruit. This tart always reminds me of days when I wanted dessert to feel casual and inviting, something you could serve with coffee or enjoy quietly at the end of a long day. The cherry filling settles gently into the crust, and the finished tart feels light, sweet, and full of warmth.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 6 tablespoons melted butter
• 3 tablespoons sugar

For the filling:

• 3 cups cherries
• ½ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Steps

Step 1: Mix graham crumbs with butter and sugar, pressing them firmly into your tart pan to form a warm, sweet crust. Chill to set. The crust feels soft and sandy, almost comforting to touch as it takes shape.

Step 2: Cook cherries with sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla until the mixture thickens into a deep, ruby filling. The bubbling cherries release a sweet, soothing aroma that fills the air with warmth.

Step 3: Pour the cherry filling into the chilled crust, smoothing it gently. The surface grows glossy and inviting.

Step 4: Bake briefly until the filling sets. The crust turns golden, and the cherries settle into a soft, tender layer.

Step 5: Let cool before slicing. Each bite offers sweet cherries paired with warm graham crumbs—a beautiful match.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8

10. Cherry Dessert with Cream Cheese Filling

This dessert is soft, creamy, and beautifully balanced—the gentle tang of cream cheese blending with the sweetness of cherries in a way that feels comforting and rich. It’s the kind of dish that feels special without requiring much effort, perfect for evenings when you want something indulgent but soothing. The layers look lovely when sliced: creamy white filling under a shining cherry topping. Every bite feels like a small moment of sweetness you can linger with.

Ingredients

For the cream cheese layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

For the topping:

• 3 cups cherries
• ½ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Crust:

• Graham or cookie crust

Steps

Step 1: Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth and airy. The mixture becomes soft and comforting, like the creamy center of a favorite childhood dessert.

Step 2: Spread the cream cheese mixture into the crust, creating a smooth, even layer. This base adds a cool richness that balances the warm cherries perfectly.

Step 3: Cook cherries with sugar and cornstarch until thickened. The filling becomes ruby-colored and beautifully glossy, releasing a sweet aroma that fills the kitchen.

Step 4: Let the cherry topping cool slightly, then spoon it over the cream cheese layer. The contrast of colors looks beautiful and inviting.

Step 5: Chill until set. Each slice blends cool cream, warm fruitiness, and a touch of nostalgia.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8