Easy Gluten-Free Vegan Cherry Pie Recipe - A Deliciously Healthy Dessert

If you’re looking for a delicious and simple dessert that caters to various dietary needs, look no further than this easy gluten-free vegan cherry pie. This recipe is perfect for those who have gluten sensitivities, follow a vegan lifestyle, or simply want to enjoy a healthier pie option without compromising on taste.

Ingredients for the Gluten-Free Vegan Cherry Pie

2 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries
1/2 cup organic sugar or a sweetener of your choice
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 gluten-free vegan pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

Steps to Make the Gluten-Free Vegan Cherry Pie

Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s properly heated before baking.
Prepare the cherry filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly. This should take about 10 minutes.
Cool the filling: Once the cherry filling has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Prepare the pie crust: If you are using a store-bought crust, follow the package instructions for preparation. If making homemade, roll out the dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.
Assemble the pie: Pour the cooled cherry filling into the prepared pie crust. If you’d like, you can add a lattice top or another decorative crust.
Bake the pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Cool and serve: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to cut clean slices.

Tips for Making the Perfect Gluten-Free Vegan Cherry Pie

Use fresh or frozen cherries: Fresh cherries are ideal for this recipe, but frozen cherries work just as well. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.
Sweetener options: You can use organic sugar, coconut sugar, or any other preferred sweetener. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Thickening the filling: Cornstarch is used to thicken the cherry filling, but you can also use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch if you prefer.
Crust options: There are many gluten-free vegan pie crusts available in stores, or you can make your own using gluten-free flour blends.

Why Choose a Gluten-Free Vegan Cherry Pie?

Choosing a gluten-free vegan cherry pie offers several benefits. It’s suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, and it’s free from animal products, making it a compassionate choice for vegans. Additionally, this pie is often lighter and healthier than traditional versions, as it uses wholesome ingredients and avoids processed additives.

Serving Suggestions for Your Cherry Pie

This gluten-free vegan cherry pie is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with a few serving suggestions:

Top with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream
Add a dollop of coconut whipped cream
Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color

FAQ

1. Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?

Yes, you can substitute cherries with other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or apples. The method remains the same; just adjust the sweetness and thickening agents as needed.

2. How do I store leftover cherry pie?

Store leftover cherry pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. You can also freeze the pie for longer storage, up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

3. Can I make the cherry filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cherry filling up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container until you are ready to assemble and bake the pie.

4. What if my pie crust starts to burn?

If the edges of your pie crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie crust shield to prevent burning while the filling finishes baking.

5. Can I make this recipe sugar-free?

Yes, you can use a sugar substitute like stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit sweetener to make the cherry pie sugar-free. Adjust the quantity based on the sweetness level of the substitute you choose.