Cherry Pie Bites are a fun twist on the classic dessert! These tasty little treats have a flaky crust filled with sweet cherry goodness. Perfect for snacking or sharing!
What’s not to love about bite-sized pie? I always end up eating more than one, and I can’t resist dipping them in whipped cream. They’re just too cute to pass up! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust Dough: The refrigerated pie crust makes this recipe quick and easy. If you prefer a homemade crust, you can substitute it with your favorite recipe. Alternatively, puff pastry works well for a flakier texture!
Cherry Pie Filling: Canned cherry pie filling is super convenient, but you can also use fresh or frozen cherries. Just cook them down with sugar, cornstarch, and a splash of lemon juice for a fresh filling. That’s my go-to for a homemade touch!
Egg: The egg wash gives the crust a nice golden color. If you’re avoiding eggs, you can use almond milk or a little water instead. It will still help with adhesion and give a nice finish!
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and a bit of crunch. If you’re looking for a less sugary option, you can use turbinado sugar or skip it altogether!
How Do I Get the Perfect Lattice on My Pie Bites?
Creating a lattice pattern can seem tricky, but it’s a fun way to add charm! First, roll out your leftover dough and cut thin strips (about 1/2 inch wide). To assemble:
- Lay two strips parallel on top of the pie bites, forming a cross.
- Weave additional strips over and under the first two for a true lattice look.
- Don’t worry if it’s not perfect! Imperfections add character to your bites.
Make sure to gently pinch the edges to seal, ensuring the filling stays put while baking. This technique not only looks great but also allows a bit of that lovely cherry filling to peek through!
Cherry Pie Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (2 sheets) of refrigerated pie crust dough
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep work and another 18-22 minutes for baking. So, in just about 40 minutes, you’ll have these delightful little treats ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your Cherry Pie Bites will bake evenly and turn golden brown!
2. Prepare the Pie Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pie crust dough. Use a round cookie cutter, about 3 inches in diameter, to cut out circles from the dough.
3. Form the Crusts:
Gently press each dough circle into the cups of a greased mini muffin tin to create small bowls. Make sure the dough is pressed evenly so it holds the filling well.
4. Add Cherry Filling:
Spoon about 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of cherry pie filling into each dough cup. Don’t overfill, or the filling will bubble over while baking!
5. Create the Lattice Top:
Using the remaining dough, cut thin strips to make a lattice or cross pattern on top of the filling. This adds a cute touch and allows the filling to peek through!
6. Prepare the Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, beat the egg with water until well mixed. Brush this egg wash over the tops of your pie bites for a beautiful golden finish once baked.
7. Add Sugar:
Sprinkle a pinch of granulated sugar over each pie bite for a sweet touch and a delightful crunch when you bite in.
8. Bake:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the crusts are golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking!
9. Cool Down:
Once baked, remove the pie bites from the oven and let them cool slightly in the pan. After a few minutes, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
These Cherry Pie Bites are best served warm or at room temperature. For an extra treat, serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side!
Enjoy these adorable and delicious Cherry Pie Bites as a perfect mini dessert or party treat! They’re sure to bring smiles all around!
Can I Use Fresh Cherries Instead of Pie Filling?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh cherries, just pit and slice them, then cook them with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to thicken. This gives a delicious homemade touch to your pie bites!
How Should I Store Leftover Cherry Pie Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months, just remember to thaw before enjoying!
Can I Make These Cherry Pie Bites Vegan?
Yes! To make them vegan, you can substitute the egg wash with a splash of almond milk or a mixture of water and cornstarch. Additionally, ensure your pie crust is dairy-free or make your own crust using vegan butter.
What’s a Good Dipping Sauce for These Pie Bites?
Cherry Pie Bites are fantastic on their own, but for an extra treat, try serving them with a side of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel can also elevate the flavor!