When summer’s warmth beckons, there’s nothing quite like the joy of baking an Old-Fashioned Cherry Pandowdy. The moment you pull this sweet creation from the oven, the rich aroma of bubbling cherries and flaky crust fills the air, instantly evoking memories of family gatherings and lazy weekends.
What I adore about this rustic dessert is its delightful simplicity; it’s incredibly easy for anyone to whip up, whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen. Using fresh, juicy cherries or even canned ones, you’ll have a fragrant filling that dances with flavor, all wrapped in a golden-brown crust. It’s a dish that not only pleases the palate but also your soul, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring on a cozy evening at home.
In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dessert that feels like a warm hug, adaptable enough to transform with whatever fruit is in season. Trust me, this Cherry Pandowdy will quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe repertoire!
Why is Old-Fashioned Cherry Pandowdy special?
Simplicity at its Finest: This classic dessert requires minimal ingredients and can be prepared with just a few easy steps, making it perfect for novice bakers.
Rich, Fruity Flavor: Bursting with juicy cherries, the flavor is enhanced by a signature blend of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, bringing warmth to every bite.
Versatile Delight: Not only can you adapt the filling with seasonal fruits, but you can also grill it for a fun twist, taking your dessert outdoors.
Gourmet Feel: Despite its easy preparation, the stunning appearance and irresistible aroma lend a gourmet touch, perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself.
Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family gatherings or quiet nights in, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and you’ve got everyone smiling!
Try making this delightful Cherry Pandowdy and see why it will become a cherished favorite in your home.
Old-Fashioned Cherry Pandowdy Ingredients
For the Crust
• Pie Dough – Use homemade or store-bought for your convenience.
For the Filling
• Fresh Cherries – The star of this dessert; can also substitute with canned or frozen cherries if fresh isn’t available.
• Cherry Pie Filling – Adds extra sweetness; adjust the amount based on your desired sweetness level.
• Orange Juice – Brightens the flavor; use lemon juice for a zestier twist.
• Cinnamon – A warm spice that enhances the overall flavor; it’s optional but highly recommended.
• Nutmeg – Provides a hint of spice; you can skip it if you prefer.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens both the crust and filling; feel free to adjust to taste.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Cherry Pandowdy
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial to ensure your Cherry Pandowdy bakes evenly, resulting in the perfect crust.
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Prepare the Pie Dough: Roll out your pie dough on a floured surface until it reaches about 11 inches in diameter, perfect for a 9-inch pie plate. Make sure it’s nice and thin for optimal flakiness!
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Pit the Cherries: Wash and pit the fresh cherries, cutting any large ones in half. This small step brings out the best in your filling and makes for a delightful bite.
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Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine your pitted cherries with the cherry pie filling, orange juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir gently until well mixed, allowing those juices to meld beautifully.
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Assemble the Pandowdy: Transfer the cherry mixture into your pie plate. Cover it with the rolled-out dough, trimming any excess. Crimp the edges for a lovely finish and sprinkle a bit of sugar on top for that extra sweetness!
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Initial Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, take it out and cut the crust into squares, pressing down the edges into the delicious filling.
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Final Bake: Return your pandowdy to the oven for another 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the crust turns golden brown and bubbly, like a sweet promise of what’s to come. Let it cool for about 20 minutes before serving; it’s worth the wait!
Optional: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a deliciously creamy contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Old-Fashioned Cherry Pandowdy preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can wash, pit, and prepare your cherries up to 24 hours in advance by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the cherry filling mix can be combined and refrigerated for up to 3 days to enhance the flavors. To maintain the quality of the crust, it’s best to prepare it the same day you plan to bake; if made ahead, wrap the dough tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble your pandowdy and bake it according to the instructions—you’ll have a warm, comforting dessert with minimal fuss!
How to Store and Freeze Old-Fashioned Cherry Pandowdy
Fridge: Store any leftover Cherry Pandowdy covered with foil or plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pandowdy wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed throughout, to restore that delightful flaky texture.
Expert Tips for Old-Fashioned Cherry Pandowdy
- Choose the Right Cherries: Fresh cherries are ideal, but ensure they are ripe and sweet for the best flavor; if unavailable, canned or frozen work well too.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your filling ingredients, mix gently to avoid breaking the cherries; this keeps the filling intact and visually appealing.
- Watch the Crust: If the crust darkens too quickly during baking, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning while the filling cooks.
- Use a Cherry Pitter: This handy tool saves time and keeps your hands clean when preparing fresh cherries, ensuring a smoother process in making your Old-Fashioned Cherry Pandowdy.
- Customize the Flavor: Experiment with spices or add almond extract to give your filling a unique twist; the options are endless!
Old-Fashioned Cherry Pandowdy Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dessert! There are so many ways to make it uniquely yours.
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Peach Swap: Substitute cherries with ripe peaches for a sweeter, summery twist that will delight your taste buds.
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Berry Medley: Use a mix of blueberries and raspberries for a burst of color and flavor that dances on your palate.
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Cinnamon Boost: Increase the cinnamon for an extra warm spice flavor that will wrap around you like a comforting hug.
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Zesty Lemon: For a fresh twist, replace orange juice with lemon juice to brighten the filling and add a tart kick.
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Nutty Almond: Add a splash of almond extract to deepen the flavor profile, enhancing the fruitiness in every bite.
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Grilled Delight: Try grilling the pandowdy in a disposable aluminum pan for a smoky flavor—perfect for summer cookouts!
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Gluten-Free Crust: Use a gluten-free pie crust to make this delightful dessert accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
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Heavenly Whipped Topping: Finish each serving with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
What to Serve with Old-Fashioned Cherry Pandowdy?
Indulging in a slice of this rustic delight is even more enjoyable when paired with the right accompaniments that enhance its sweet, fruity goodness.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that melts beautifully over the warm pie, creating a comforting contrast of temperatures.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a fluffy texture and richness that complements the fruity filling.
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Almond Biscotti: Crunchy and nutty, biscotti offers a delightful textural contrast, perfect for those who enjoy a dip into their dessert.
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Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea balances the sweetness, providing a cozy experience that invites lingering conversations.
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Grilled Peaches: For summer gatherings, grilled peaches bring a smoky sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the cherry flavors.
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Cheese Plate: Soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese can add a creamy, savory component, providing a delightful balance to the pandowdy’s sweetness.
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Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of rich chocolate sauce can elevate each bite, adding a layer of decadence that chocolate lovers will adore.
These thoughtful pairings will round out your meal, making your Old-Fashioned Cherry Pandowdy the star of any gathering or quiet evening at home.
Old-Fashioned Cherry Pandowdy Recipe FAQs
What kind of cherries should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh, ripe cherries are ideal for your Old-Fashioned Cherry Pandowdy, as they provide the best flavor and texture. Look for cherries that are plump, firm, and free from dark spots or cracks. However, if fresh cherries aren’t available, you’re in luck! Canned or frozen cherries can also work beautifully as substitutes; just be sure to drain any excess liquid from canned cherries before adding them to your filling.
How long can I store leftover Cherry Pandowdy?
Very! Leftover Cherry Pandowdy can be kept in the refrigerator, covered with foil or plastic wrap, for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed warm, so simply reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to maintain that delightful flaky crust.
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Can I freeze my Cherry Pandowdy?
Of course! Freezing is a great option if you want to enjoy a slice later. Wrap your pandowdy tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to treat yourself, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it in the oven for that just-baked taste.
What should I do if the crust browns too quickly while baking?
Oh, that can happen! If you notice that the crust is getting dark too quickly, don’t worry! Simply cover it loosely with a piece of aluminum foil. This will shield the crust while allowing the filling to continue cooking until it’s perfectly bubbly and the crust is golden brown. Just keep an eye on it to ensure everything bakes evenly.
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies or dietary restrictions?
Yes! This Old-Fashioned Cherry Pandowdy can be tailored to meet various dietary considerations. If you’re dealing with specific allergies, consider using gluten-free pie crust options available at the store or online. For added sweetness, feel free to substitute granulated sugar with alternatives like coconut sugar or a non-caloric sweetener that fits your needs. Just be sure to check the labels if you’re making adaptations for allergies.
How can I make this dessert even more special?
The more the merrier! Beyond the classic filling, you can experiment with seasonal fruits like peaches or blueberries for a delightful twist. Adding a splash of almond extract to the cherry filling can elevate the flavor intricacies. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch that will truly impress your loved ones!
Delicious Old-Fashioned Cherry Pandowdy You’ll Love Making
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking.
- Roll out your pie dough on a floured surface until it reaches about 11 inches in diameter.
- Wash and pit the fresh cherries, cutting any large ones in half.
- In a large bowl, combine your pitted cherries with the cherry pie filling, orange juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir gently until well mixed.
- Transfer the cherry mixture into your pie plate. Cover it with the rolled-out dough, trimming any excess.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Cut the crust into squares, pressing down the edges.
- Return to the oven for another 25 minutes until the crust is golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool for about 20 minutes before serving.
