Aunt Betty’s Mock Cherry Pie

🥧 Aunt Betty’s Mock Cherry Pie 🍒

Aunt Betty’s Mock Cherry Pie is a delightful dessert with a unique twist. Despite its name, it doesn’t contain actual cherries but uses a clever substitute to mimic the tartness and flavor of cherries. Here’s everything you need to know about this classic recipe:

📜 History:
Aunt Betty’s Mock Cherry Pie is a traditional American pie that likely emerged during the Great Depression when fresh cherries were scarce. Instead of using real cherries, it relies on red currants or cranberries to create a similar tartness. It became a popular and economical alternative to traditional cherry pies.

📦 Components:
To make Aunt Betty’s Mock Cherry Pie, you will need the following components:

• 2 cups of red currants or cranberries (the “mock cherries”)
• 1 cup of sugar
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract
• 1 tablespoon of butter
• A double pie crust (either homemade or store-bought)

📋 Preparation Steps:

1. Prepare the Mock Cherries: Wash and de-stem the red currants or cranberries. If using cranberries, you can slice them in half. Toss them with 1 cup of sugar and let them sit for about 30 minutes to macerate.

2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

3. Prepare the Filling: In a saucepan, combine the sugared berries, cornstarch, and almond extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, and the berries begin to burst. This should take about 10 minutes. Remove from heat, and stir in the butter.

4. Prepare the Crust: Roll out half of the pie crust and line a 9-inch pie pan with it. Prick the crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.

5. Fill the Pie: Pour the mock cherry filling into the pie crust.

6. Lattice or Top Crust: Roll out the remaining pie crust and cut it into strips for a lattice top or simply cover the pie with the entire crust. Seal the edges and cut a few vents in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

7. Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown, and the filling is bubbling.

8. Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool before serving. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

🕒 Preparation Time:
The total time needed to prepare Aunt Betty’s Mock Cherry Pie is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, including prep, baking, and cooling.

This emoji-filled guide should help you create a delicious mock cherry pie that Aunt Betty herself would be proud of. Enjoy! 🥧🍒😊

🥧 Aunt Betty’s Mock Cherry Pie Nutrition Facts and Health Information 🥧

While Aunt Betty’s Mock Cherry Pie is a delightful treat, it’s essential to be aware of its nutrition facts and health considerations.

📊 Nutrition Facts (per serving, assuming 8 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 290 calories
• Total Fat: About 12 grams
  • Saturated Fat: Approximately 4.5 grams
  • Trans Fat: Minimal
• Cholesterol: Around 5 milligrams
• Sodium: Roughly 180 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 43 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: About 2 grams
  • Sugars: Approximately 25 grams
• Protein: Around 2 grams

🌱 Health Information:

1. Caloric Content: Aunt Betty’s Mock Cherry Pie is a dessert and, as such, is relatively high in calories. It’s essential to enjoy it in moderation, especially if you are watching your calorie intake.

2. Fat and Saturated Fat: The pie contains a moderate amount of fat, with some saturated fat from the butter and crust. Be mindful of your overall fat consumption, especially if you have dietary restrictions.

3. Sugars: The primary source of sweetness in this pie comes from sugar and the natural sugars in the mock cherries. It’s relatively high in sugar, so it’s best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a daily indulgence.

4. Fiber: While the pie filling may contain some dietary fiber from the fruit, it’s not a significant source. Consider increasing your fiber intake through other parts of your diet.

5. Portion Control: To enjoy this pie without overindulging, it’s a good practice to stick to a reasonable serving size. A small slice can satisfy your sweet tooth without causing a significant impact on your overall diet.

6. Balanced Diet: Incorporate Aunt Betty’s Mock Cherry Pie as part of a balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. This way, you can still enjoy treats while maintaining a nutritious diet.

Remember, the key to enjoying any dessert, including Aunt Betty’s Mock Cherry Pie, is moderation. It can be a delightful occasional treat, and understanding its nutritional content can help you make informed choices about when and how much to enjoy. 🥧📊🌱