5 Ways to Make Cherry Pie with Eagle Brand Milk

Are you eager to delight your taste buds with the luscious sweetness of cherry pie but don't have a tried-and-true recipe? Fret not, because I am here to guide you through not one, but five delicious methods to make cherry pie using Eagle Brand Milk. This condensed milk adds a rich creaminess that sets your pie apart, making every bite a heavenly experience.

Why Choose Eagle Brand Milk?

Eagle Brand Milk, or sweetened condensed milk, is a secret ingredient to enrich your desserts. Here’s why it's a game-changer:

• Richness: It imparts a creamy texture and caramel-like flavor.
• Convenience: Ready-to-use, so you save time preparing the milk.
• Sweetness: Naturally sweet, reducing the need for added sugar.
• Versatility: Works in both traditional baking recipes and as a dessert topping.

Method 1: Classic Eagle Brand Cherry Pie

This method is as close as you can get to perfection for a traditional cherry pie:

• 2 cups cherry pie filling
• 1 can (14 oz.) Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pre-baked pie crust

Steps:

1. Prepare the Pie Crust: Bake your pie crust according to package instructions or your own recipe until it’s golden brown and set aside to cool.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the condensed milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Add Filling: Fold in the cherry pie filling.
4. Assemble: Pour the mixture into the cooled pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
5. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until firm.
6. Serve: Slice and enjoy!

Notes:

🍒 Note: Make sure to cool the crust completely to prevent the filling from melting.

Method 2: Cherry Cheesecake Pie

Combine the velvety texture of cheesecake with the tartness of cherries:

• 1 can (14 oz.) Eagle Brand Milk
• 1 package (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 can cherry pie filling
• 1 pre-baked pie crust

Steps:

1. Cream Cheese Filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add condensed milk, lemon juice, and vanilla, mixing well after each addition.
2. Assemble Pie: Pour the mixture into the cooled pie crust. Smooth the top.
3. Top with Cherries: Spread cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer.
4. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
5. Serve: Cut into slices and enjoy the rich, creamy texture with cherry burst.

Method 3: No-Bake Cherry Chiffon Pie

This method is ideal for those hot summer days when you don’t want to turn on the oven:

• 1/2 cup cherry preserves
• 1 can (14 oz.) Eagle Brand Milk
• 1/3 cup lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon gelatin, dissolved in 1/4 cup water
• 1 graham cracker crust

Steps:

1. Dissolve Gelatin: Sprinkle gelatin over water in a bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom. Heat gently until dissolved, then cool.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix Eagle Brand Milk, lemon juice, and vanilla. Add the cooled gelatin mixture, stirring until smooth.
3. Incorporate Preserves: Fold in cherry preserves.
4. Fill Crust: Pour the mixture into the graham cracker crust.
5. Set: Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours to set.
6. Serve: Slice, savor, and enjoy the light, airy texture!

Notes:

🍒 Note: A graham cracker crust provides the perfect base for a no-bake pie, as it doesn’t require baking.

Method 4: Lattice-Topped Cherry Pie

This visually appealing pie is both tasty and impressive:

• 2 cups cherry pie filling
• 1 can (14 oz.) Eagle Brand Milk
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)

Steps:

1. Prepare Bottom Crust: Roll out one pie crust and line a pie dish.
2. Mix Filling: Combine condensed milk, lemon juice, and almond extract (if using). Fold in the cherry pie filling.
3. Add Filling: Pour the mixture into the bottom pie crust.
4. Create Lattice: Cut the second pie crust into strips. Weave them over the filling to create a lattice top.
5. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
6. Cool and Serve: Let cool before slicing to allow the filling to set.

Method 5: Individual Cherry Tartlets

For when you want to impress with mini portions:

• 1 cup cherry pie filling
• 1 can (14 oz.) Eagle Brand Milk
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 12 mini tart shells (homemade or store-bought)

Steps:

1. Prepare Mini Tart Shells: Bake or prepare according to your recipe or package instructions. Let cool.
2. Make Filling: Mix condensed milk, lemon juice, and vanilla. Fold in cherry pie filling.
3. Fill Tartlets: Spoon the mixture into each mini tart shell.
4. Serve: Refrigerate until ready to serve, garnish with a mint leaf or whipped cream if desired.

🍒 Note: Mini tart shells make for an elegant dessert at gatherings, allowing guests to indulge without overdoing it.

Each of these five methods highlights the versatility of Eagle Brand Milk in baking. From traditional pies to no-bake delights, the silky sweetness of Eagle Brand Milk elevates cherry pie to new heights. These pies not only satisfy the craving for something sweet but also bring a touch of sophistication to your dessert table. By incorporating this condensed milk, you ensure your pie will be remembered for its rich flavor and creamy texture. Now, choose your method, gather your ingredients, and bake away to create a cherry pie masterpiece!

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?

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Yes, you can use fresh cherries. However, you’ll need to pit and cook them down with sugar and a thickening agent like cornstarch to make your own filling. This adds a bit more prep time but can yield a fresher flavor.

What can I do if I don’t have Eagle Brand Milk?

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Other brands of sweetened condensed milk will work just as well. In a pinch, you can make your own by boiling milk with sugar until it reduces, though this is more time-consuming.

How long will these cherry pies last?

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Refrigerate your cherry pie, and it should last for up to 5 days. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.

Can these recipes be made vegan?

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Vegan versions can be made by substituting sweetened condensed milk with coconut milk, and using vegan cream cheese or silken tofu for cheesecake-based recipes. The texture and taste will differ slightly but will still be delicious.

Can I freeze cherry pie for later?

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Yes, cherry pie can be frozen before baking (for a freezer-to-oven approach), or after baking for short-term storage. To freeze after baking, cool completely, wrap well to avoid freezer burn, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.