Cherry and Strawberry Pie

Cherry and Strawberry Pie: A Summer Delight

On a warm summer day, there’s nothing more refreshing than a fruit pie. Although I initially planned to use rhubarb, its absence inspired me to create a delicious cherry and strawberry pie recipe. This dessert is perfect for satisfying sweet cravings during fasting, but it will certainly delight those who do not fast as well. Get ready to discover a flavorful blend and a delightful texture!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 120 g margarine (cut into cubes)
- 150 g white flour
- 120 g whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 4 tablespoons cold soy milk

For the filling:
- 600 g cherries (pitted)
- 300 g strawberries (halved)
- 100 g sugar
- 30 g cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons soy milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the dough

1. In a large bowl, sift the white flour and whole wheat flour. Add the margarine cubes, salt, and sugar.
2. Using your fingers or a pastry blender, mix the ingredients until you achieve a texture similar to fine sand.
3. Gradually add the cold soy milk, mixing continuously until the dough becomes smooth, soft, but not sticky. It is essential to adjust the amount of milk or flour if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.
4. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step helps to firm up the margarine, making the dough easier to roll out.

Step 2: Prepare the filling

1. While the dough is cooling, wash the cherries and strawberries. Remove the pits from the cherries and cut the strawberries in half.
2. Place the fruits in a large bowl and add the sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well to combine the ingredients.
3. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes so the fruits release their juice and marinate in the sugar.

Step 3: Assemble the pie

1. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius.
2. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two parts, leaving one part slightly larger (this will be the base).
3. Roll out the larger part of the dough on a floured surface, forming a sheet larger than the baking dish (I recommend a 21-23 cm dish for optimal results).
4. Place the sheet of dough in the dish, ensuring you cover the edges as well. Pour the fruit filling evenly into the dish.
5. Roll out the other part of the dough and cover the filling. You can create a decorative pattern by cutting the dough into strips and placing them over the filling.

Step 4: Baking

1. Place the pie in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes at 200 degrees Celsius, then reduce the temperature to 180 degrees and continue baking for 20-25 minutes until the pie is golden and the filling is bubbling.
2. Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. It is recommended to let it cool completely before cutting to allow the filling to set.

Serving and suggestions

After the pie has cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar for a more elegant appearance, although I personally prefer to serve it plain to savor the natural taste of the fruits. It can be accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to add a creamy touch.

Variations and practical tips

- Alternative fruits: You can experiment with other fruits such as peaches, apples, or raspberries, depending on the season and preferences.
- Dough: If you want a healthier version, you can replace the margarine with coconut oil or butter, although you will need to adjust the quantities.
- Sweeteners: Instead of sugar, you can use maple syrup or natural sweeteners like stevia for a lower-calorie option.

Nutritional benefits

This cherry and strawberry pie is rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Cherries are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, while strawberries are packed with vitamin C and fiber, contributing to immune system health. This fasting recipe not only satisfies sweet cravings but also provides a healthy dose of nutrients.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of margarine?
Yes, make sure to choose a dairy-free margarine to keep the recipe fasting-friendly.

2. How can I store the pie?
The pie stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

3. Is it possible to freeze the pie?
Yes, the pie can be frozen before baking. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

Enjoy this cherry and strawberry pie on warm summer days or whenever you crave a delicious dessert! It’s simple to make and will surely become a favorite among your loved ones. Enjoy!