COUNTRY CHERRY PIE

About 7,000 cherries grow on an average tart cherry tree. A cherry pie is made of about 250 cherries. Thus 28 pies can be made with the cherries from one tree.

¼ c. sugar

2 Tbs. cornstarch

Dash salt

4 c. fresh tart cherries, pitted

Pastry for double-crust pie (9”)

Confectioners’ sugar

In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch and salt; stir in cherries until blended. Let stand for 30 minutes. Bring to a boil over medium heat; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from the heat. Line a 9-inch pie plate with bottom crust; trim pastry even with edge. Fill with cherry filling. Bake at 375°F. for 45 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly. Cover edges during the last 20 minutes to prevent overbrowning. Meanwhile, roll out remaining pastry to 1/8-in. thickness. Cut into 12-14 large stars or any design of your choice, and 16-18 small stars; place on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 375°F. fo...