I created this yummy recipe for a cherry pie contest at the San Diego County Fair when I was first married in 1984. It won the blue ribbon! I love entering contests and I have won many of them.

Cherry Cream Crumble Pie is a delicious and comforting dessert that combines the tartness of cherries with a creamy filling and a crunchy crumble topping. This pie is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among pie enthusiasts.

The history of cherry pies dates back centuries, with cherries being a popular fruit in various culinary traditions around the world. Cherries have been enjoyed in pies, tarts, and other desserts for their vibrant flavor and versatility. The combination of cherries and cream in pies is particularly beloved for its balanced sweetness and tartness.

Cherry Cream Crumble Pie likely evolved from traditional cherry pie recipes, with the addition of a creamy filling and a crumble topping. The creamy filling, typically made with sour cream, adds a luscious texture and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet cherries. The crumble topping provides a satisfying crunch and adds another layer of flavor to the pie.

PREP: 20 MIN.

BAKE: 45 MIN. + COOLING

MAKES: 8 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) pitted tart cherries, drained
• 1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 unbaked pastry shell (9 inches)

FOR TOPPING:

• 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup cold butter
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the filling:
   • In a large bowl, combine the sugar, flour, drained cherries, sour cream, beaten egg, and almond extract.
   • Spoon the filling mixture into the unbaked pastry shell.
2. Bake the pie:
   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Bake the pie at 400°F for 20 minutes.
3. Prepare the topping:
   • In a small bowl, combine the quick-cooking oats, flour, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon.
   • Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Stir in the chopped pecans.
4. Add the crumble topping:
   • After 20 minutes of baking, remove the pie from the oven.
   • Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the pie filling.
   • Cover the edges of the pastry shell with aluminum foil or a pie crust shield to prevent overbrowning.
5. Continue baking:
   • Return the pie to the oven.
   • Bake at 400°F for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the crumble topping is lightly browned.
6. Cool and serve:
   • Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and cool it on a wire rack for 1 hour.
   • For best results, refrigerate the pie before serving to allow it to set.

Enjoy the luscious combination of tart cherries, creamy filling, and crunchy crumble topping in every bite of Cherry Cream Crumble Pie. This delightful pie is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, holiday celebration, or a simple dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for extended enjoyment.