Heart Shaped Cherry Pie: Sweeten Your Valentine’s Day!

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

When the heart of February arrives, it s impossible to resist the allure of sweet treats that warm the soul. One particularly enchanting dessert has captured my heart: the Heart Shaped Cherry Pie. With its golden, flaky crust cradling a luscious sweet-tart filling, this delightful creation brings an extra layer of love to your table. I discovered how simple it is to whip up this showstopper while looking for a unique way to celebrate Valentine s Day. Trust me, the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone drawing near, and the cheerful heart shape is sure to earn you rave reviews. Whether you re sharing it with a special someone or enjoying it with friends and family, this easy cherry pie is a recipe that champions homemade goodness and brings smiles all around. Let s dive into this charming baking adventure!

Why is Heart Shaped Cherry Pie a Must-Make?

Irresistible Charm: This heart shaped cherry pie adds a touch of love to any occasion, especially Valentine s Day.
Effortlessly Delicious: The simple steps make baking a breeze, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Flavor Fusion: Enjoy the delightful contrast of sweet and tart cherries wrapped in a flaky crust.
Versatile Options: Easily adapt the filling with berries or chocolate for a unique twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve it warm with ice cream, and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Embrace homemade goodness with this delightful dessert and make your loved ones smile!

Heart Shaped Cherry Pie Ingredients

For the Crust

• All-purpose flour Gives structure to the crust; you can use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• Unsalted butter Provides flakiness; ensure it s cold before using. Substitute margarine for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated sugar Sweetens the crust and filling; brown sugar can add a deeper flavor.
• Salt Enhances the overall flavor of the crust.
• Ice water Binds the dough together; using cold water is key to maintaining consistency.

For the Filling

• Fresh cherries The star ingredient that offers a sweet-tart flavor; frozen cherries work well if fresh is unavailable.
• Cornstarch Thickens the filling, preventing it from becoming runny; adjust based on the juiciness of the cherries.
• Almond extract Infuses a delightful bakery flavor; you can swap it for vanilla extract if desired.

For Finishing Touches

• Egg wash Gives the crust a beautiful golden-brown finish; it s optional if making a vegan version.
• Coarse sugar Sprinkled on top for added sweetness and a touch of crunch before baking.

Craft your heart shaped cherry pie with these ingredients, and watch as it transforms into a cherished Valentine s Day dessert!

How to Make Heart Shaped Cherry Pie

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt together. Cut in the cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough forms, then chill it for 10 minutes.

2. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a heart-shaped template to cut out heart shapes, reserving some dough for the top crust.

3. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, gently combine fresh cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and almond extract, ensuring the cherries are well coated.

4. Assemble the Pie: Place one heart-shaped piece of crust on a baking sheet. Fill it with the cherry mixture, ensuring even distribution. Cover with a second heart-shaped crust, sealing the edges well.

5. Bake: Brush the top crust with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar. Bake in a preheated oven at 375 °F for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

6. Cool and Serve: Once baked, let the pie cool for a few minutes for easier slicing. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Optional: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delicious pairing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Heart Shaped Cherry Pie

Room Temperature: The pie can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days. Ensure it s covered to maintain freshness and prevent it from drying out.

Fridge: Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the pie moist while preserving its delightful flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the heart shaped cherry pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and enjoy it up to 3 months later. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating: To reheat, simply place slices in a preheated oven at 350 °F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This restores the flaky crust and warm cherry filling.

What to Serve with Heart Shaped Cherry Pie?

Creating the perfect meal together with this charming dessert will elevate your dining experience and warm everyone s hearts.

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of airy whipped cream adds a delightful creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the sweet-tart cherry filling.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing of vanilla ice cream provides a rich, creamy texture that complements the warm pie, turning each slice into a truly indulgent treat.

• Coffee: A hot cup of coffee enhances the flavors of the cherry pie, making it a cozy and inviting end to your meal, especially on a chilly evening.

• Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These elegant bites add romance and are a delicious way to round out your dessert experience, enhancing the cherry pie s festive spirit.

• Pineapple Salsa: This fresh topping, with its sweet and tropical notes, will brighten up the flavors and add an unexpected twist to your homemade dessert.

• Sparkling Rosé: A glass of bubbly pairs well with the sweet notes of the pie, making it a celebratory drink choice for a special occasion like Valentine s Day.

• Homemade Lemonade: The zesty refreshment of lemonade offers a bright, tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the pie, perfectly lifting the meal s overall taste.

Elevate your Heart Shaped Cherry Pie with these delightful pairings that ensure a memorable dining experience!

Expert Tips for Heart Shaped Cherry Pie

• Cold Ingredients Matter: Ensure your butter and water are ice-cold to create a flaky crust. Warm ingredients will lead to a dense pie.

• Mind the Filling: Avoid overfilling the pie to prevent leaks. A good rule is to fill just below the crust edges for the best results.

• Cornstarch Control: If your cherry filling seems runny, consider adding more cornstarch. Adjust according to the juiciness of your fresh cherries.

• Egg Wash Timing: Brush your crust with egg wash just before baking for a beautifully golden finish. Don t apply it too early!

• Slice Before Serving: Let your heart shaped cherry pie cool slightly before cutting. This allows the filling to set and makes for cleaner slices.

Make Ahead Options

These Heart Shaped Cherry Pies are a fantastic make-ahead dessert for your Valentine s Day celebrations! You can prepare the pie dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance, storing the dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator while keeping the filling in an airtight container. When you re ready to bake, simply roll out the dough and assemble the pie with your chilled cherry filling. For best results, avoid adding the egg wash and coarse sugar until just before baking, ensuring the pie crust stays flaky and golden. This way, you ll enjoy a delightful homemade treat without the last-minute rush, creating sweet memories with ease!

Heart Shaped Cherry Pie Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful dessert and discover your personal favorite!

• Chocolate Cherry: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the cherry filling for a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.

• Mixed Berry Delight: Swap out cherries for a mix of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a colorful berry pie that bursts with flavor.

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to create a crust that everyone can enjoy without sacrificing flakiness.

• Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg instead of the egg wash for a delicious vegan-friendly pie.

• Lemon Zest Boost: Stir in some fresh lemon zest with the cherry filling for a refreshing zing that brightens every bite.

• Nutty Crust: Incorporate finely ground almonds or walnuts into the crust for an extra layer of flavor and texture that complements the cherries beautifully.

• Spicy Surprise: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cherry filling for a warm touch that makes each slice even cozier.

• Coconut Flake Finish: Sprinkle unsweetened coconut flakes on top of the pie before baking for a tropical flavor that takes the pie to a whole new level.

Let these variations inspire you to make this heart shaped cherry pie your own each twist adds a unique touch that makes sharing even more special!

Heart Shaped Cherry Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of cherries are best for the filling?
Absolutely! Fresh, ripe cherries provide the sweetest flavor for your heart shaped cherry pie. Look for cherries that are firm, deep red, and free from dark spots or blemishes. If fresh cherries are out of season, frozen cherries can be a great alternative just be sure to drain any excess liquid before making your filling.

How should I store my heart shaped cherry pie?
Very good question! Store your pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to preserve its fresh taste. If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in the fridge, where they can last for about 3 days without losing their delightful flavor.

Can I freeze the heart shaped cherry pie?
Yes, indeed! Freezing is a fantastic option for this pie. If you want to freeze your heart shaped cherry pie before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you re ready to enjoy it, you can bake it straight from frozen; however, you ll need to add about 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time for the perfect finish.

What can I do if my cherry filling is too runny?
Sure thing! If you find that your cherry filling is a bit too runny, don t worry! You can adjust by mixing in an extra tablespoon of cornstarch, or make sure to drain any excess liquid from your cherries. Another trick is to give the filling a quick cook on the stovetop for a few minutes until it thickens slightly before pouring into your crust.

Is this heart shaped cherry pie suitable for vegans?
Definitely! To make this pie vegan-friendly, simply substitute the unsalted butter with a non-dairy margarine and skip the egg wash. Instead, you can brush the crust with a mixture of almond or soy milk and a splash of vanilla extract for that beautiful finish before popping it in the oven.

How do I know when the pie is perfectly baked?
Great question! You ll know your heart shaped cherry pie is done when the crust turns golden brown and you see cherry filling bubbling through the edges. You can also use a toothpick inserted in the crust to check for doneness it should come out clean with just a few crumbs. I often check it around the 25-minute mark to gauge if more time is needed!