CRUMB CRUST RECIPES

Steps:

• Stir the ingredients together. Press into an ungreased pie or springform pan. Optional: For a crispier crust, bake at 350ºF for 5 minutes. Cool before filling.

Steps:

• Combine the cherries and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat and cook until the juices are hot and bubbling, 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and cook for 1 minute.  Stir together the cornstarch and lemon juice in a small bowl. Add to the cherry mixture, stirring until incorporated. Continue to cook until glossy and thickened, 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool completely. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use, or up to 1 day.  Make the crumb topping: Whisk together the flour, brown sugar and salt in a large bowl. Rub in the butter with your fingers until it is in pea-size pieces and the ingredients are well combined. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before using, or up to 1 day.  Preheat the oven to 375˚. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. Roll out the pie dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch round, starting at the center and working your way out. (Sprinkle flour over the top of the dough if it’s a bit too moist.) Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie pan. Gently press the dough against the sides of the pan. Tuck the overhanging dough underneath itself, then crimp the edges with your fingers.  Pour the cooled cherry mixture into the pie crust and sprinkle with the crumb topping. Put the pie on the baking sheet and bake until the filling is bubbling and the crust is browned, about 50 minutes. (Cover the crust with foil if it’s getting dark too quickly.) Transfer the pie to a rack and let cool at least 2 hours before serving.