Easy Cherry Pie Bites – Sweet and Delicious Mini Treats
Easy Cherry Pie Bites – So Sweet and Delicious!
Cherry pie is a classic dessert that brings joy to any occasion, but sometimes, you just want a bite-sized treat that is easy to make and enjoy. These Easy Cherry Pie Bites are the perfect solution! They are simple to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and are great for parties, gatherings, or an everyday sweet craving. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and learn how to make these delicious mini cherry pies!
Why You’ll Love These Cherry Pie Bites
- Quick and Easy: Using pre-made pie crusts makes the process simple and stress-free.
- Perfectly Portable: These mini pies are great for serving at events or for on-the-go snacking.
- Sweet and Satisfying: The combination of flaky crust and sweet cherry filling is irresistible.
- Customizable: You can add a lattice top, sprinkle sugar, or even use different fruit fillings!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delicious cherry pie bites, you only need a few simple ingredients:
- 1 package of refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 can of cherry pie filling (21 oz)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar for sprinkling
These ingredients are easy to find and will help you create perfectly bite-sized cherry pies in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray or butter. This ensures that your mini pies don’t stick to the pan.
Prepare the Pie Crusts
Roll out each pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Using a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass, cut out circles slightly larger than the muffin cup openings. This will ensure that the crusts fit perfectly inside the muffin cups.
Line the Muffin Cups
Gently press each pie crust circle into the muffin tin, making sure to press the dough against the bottom and sides of each cup. Leave a small overhang to help hold the filling.
Fill with Cherry Pie Filling
Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of cherry pie filling into each pie crust-lined cup. Be careful not to overfill, as the filling will bubble up during baking.
Create the Pie Topping
You have several options for the topping:
- Lattice Topping: Cut strips from the remaining pie crust and weave them over the filling.
- Full Coverage: Cut small circles of dough and place them over the filling, sealing the edges.
- Open-Faced: Leave them uncovered for a more rustic look.
Sprinkle with Sugar (Optional)
For an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle granulated sugar on top of the pies before baking.
Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbly.
Cool and Serve
Let the cherry pie bites cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best taste.
Tips for the Best Cherry Pie Bites
- Use a fork to crimp the edges of the dough for a more traditional pie look.
- Add a touch of cinnamon to the cherry filling for extra flavor.
- Try different fillings like apple, blueberry, or peach for variety.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to bring back the fresh-baked taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and bake them ahead of time, then store them in an airtight container. To refresh them, warm them up in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Can I use homemade pie crust?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade pie crust recipe, feel free to use it instead of the store-bought version.
What other fillings can I use?
You can try apple, blueberry, raspberry, or even Nutella for a fun twist!
Do I have to use a muffin tin?
While a muffin tin helps shape the bites, you can also use small tart molds or even free-form them on a baking sheet.
How do I prevent soggy crusts?
For a crispier crust, brush the inside of each crust with a beaten egg white before adding the filling.
Can I freeze these cherry pie bites?
Yes! Let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Enjoy these Easy Cherry Pie Bites as a delightful dessert or snack. Whether you’re making them for a party or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, they are sure to be a hit!