Cheesy Apple Cherry Crumb Pie

Introducing the sensational Farmhouse Apple Cherry Pie, the crowned jewel of this year’s Michigan Living baking contest, crafted by the talented Pamela Conrad! 🥧 This delightful pie is a harmonious blend of sweet, tart apples and succulent dried cherries, enveloped in a flaky, cheesy crust and crowned with a delectable crumb topping. Perfect for cozy winter evenings or as a delightful dessert any night of the week, this pie is sure to become a cherished favorite among family and friends alike. 🍎🍒

Preparation Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup grated cheese
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for crumb topping)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for crumb topping)
• 3/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 egg
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sour cream
• Zest of 1 fresh lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 cup dried cherries
• 2 red apples, peeled and sliced
• Ice water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

   • Using a pastry blender, mix all-purpose flour, salt, and unsalted butter until the ingredients resemble coarse meal.
   • Add grated cheese to the mixture.
   • Gradually add drops of ice water and mix until the dough holds together (approximately 1/4 cup of water).
   • Pat the dough into a flat circle onto a piece of plastic wrap.
   • Cover with wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour.

2. Prepare the Crumb Topping:

   • Combine 1/4 cup of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour using a pastry blender or in a food processor until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
   • Add dark brown sugar and rolled oats to the mixture and combine well.
   • Set aside for later use.

3. Prepare the Filling:

   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Roll out the chilled pie crust to a 14-inch circle and press it into an 8-inch pie plate or tin.
   • In a mixing bowl, beat the egg and add granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, sour cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
   • Add the dried cherries and sliced red apples to the mixture, and mix until all ingredients are evenly coated.

4. Assemble the Pie:

   • Pour the prepared filling into the pie crust.
   • Bring the overhanging pastry up over the filling to partially cover it.

5. Bake the Pie:

   • Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes.
   • After 10 minutes, remove the pie from the oven and sprinkle the prepared crumb topping evenly over the apple filling.
   • Return the pie to the oven and continue baking for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the crumb topping is golden brown and the filling is set.
   • Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.

This Farmhouse Apple Cherry Pie is best enjoyed warm, served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, it’s bound to be a hit at any gathering or special occasion. Enjoy every delightful bite of this award-winning pie! 🌟🍴