Step 1

Pit the cherries and add the sugar, cornstarch, and cherries to a medium saucepan.

Step 2

Stir constantly over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens.

Step 3

Once thickened, remove from the heat and stir in almond extract, lemon juice, and butter. Allow cooling completely.

Step 4

Preheat the oven to 400° once the filling has cooled.

Step 5

Line a 9-inch pie pan with one pie crust.

Step 6

Add the filling to the pie crust and top with the second crust, crimping the edges together and creating a vent for steam to escape.

Step 7

Combine the egg yolk and water to make the egg wash.

Step 8

Brush the egg wash evenly over the top crust and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and the crust is golden brown.

Step 9

Let cool completely before serving.