A wave of warmth envelops my kitchen as I pull a tray of Mini Cherry Pies from the oven, their buttery crusts bubbling with vibrant cherry filling. I can still hear the gentle chorus of my family raving about how these bite-sized treats vanished at our last picnic. They’re not just adorable; they transform any gathering into a memorable occasion.
What I love most is that with only four ingredients and a little over an hour, you can have a delightful dessert that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Whether you’re looking to impress guests, treat your loved ones, or savor a moment of sweet solitude, these mini wonders deliver a burst of fruity joy in every bite. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s destined to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!
Why will you adore Mini Cherry Pies?
Delightful Bites: These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, transforming a simple dessert into an impressive centerpiece.
Effortless Preparation: With just four ingredients, you’ll have a delightful treat ready in about an hour!
Versatile Flavors: Think beyond cherries! Experiment with peach or blueberry fillings for a fresh twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at picnics, family gatherings, or cozy nights in, everyone will love these fruity delights.
Beautiful Presentation: Their charming mini size makes them irresistibly cute and easy to serve, captivating your guests!
Get ready to elevate your dessert game by trying out this recipe for Mini Cherry Pies!
Mini Cherry Pie Ingredients
• Discover the joy of making Mini Cherry Pies with just four simple ingredients!
For the Crust
- Store-Bought Pie Crust – A time saver that provides a flaky and buttery base; feel free to make your own for added love.
- Egg White – This is brushed on top to create a lovely golden and glossy finish for your pies.
For the Filling
- Cherry Pie Filling – This sweet and vibrant filling is the star of your mini pies; opt for high-quality store-bought or homemade for the best taste.
- Sugar – A sprinkle on top helps to enhance the sweetness and adds a delightful sparkling finish.
Embrace the ease of baking with these charming and delicious Mini Cherry Pies!
How to Make Mini Cherry Pies
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Prep the Oven and Tin: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin. This will ensure your pies bake evenly and release easily after they’re done.
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Cut the Crust: Roll out your store-bought pie crust on a clean surface and use a round cutter to cut out 3 ½–4-inch circles. These will form the base of your mini pies.
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Shape the Crust: Gently press the dough circles into the greased muffin cups to create mini crusts. Make sure to press them into the bottom and sides for the perfect shape.
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Add Filling: Spoon your luscious cherry pie filling into each crust, filling them about ⅔ full. This ensures a delightful burst of flavor in every bite without overflow while baking.
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Optional Lattice Topping: If you’re feeling creative, roll out any leftover dough and cut into strips. Weave them into a lattice and place on top of each pie for an extra touch of charm.
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Brush and Sprinkle: Use a brush to apply the beaten egg white over the tops of the pies. Finish with a light sprinkle of sugar for a sweet and sparkling crust.
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Bake: Pop your mini pies into the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling bubbles enticingly.
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Cool and Remove: Allow the pies to cool in the muffin tin for about 15–20 minutes. Gently lift them out using a small spatula or fork, taking care not to break them.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a heavenly dessert experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Mini Cherry Pies?
Discover the perfect accompaniments that will elevate the delightful experience of these charming treats.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light and fluffy contrast to your pies, enhancing their sweetness beautifully. Consider folding a hint of vanilla or almond extract into the cream for extra flavor.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm Mini Cherry Pies alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The cold, rich texture pairs perfectly with the warm filling, creating an irresistible dessert experience.
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Fresh Berries: Brighten up your plate with a medley of fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries. Their tartness offsets the sweetness of the pies, adding a refreshing twist.
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Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint as a garnish not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a refreshing aroma, lifting the overall dessert presentation.
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Coffee or Tea: Enjoy your Mini Cherry Pies with a steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea. The warm beverages complement the sweet flavors and make for a cozy pairing.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your pies with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the top. This luxurious touch adds richness and deepens the flavor profile while making them even more visually appealing.
Tips for the Best Mini Cherry Pies
- Keep Dough Cool: If your dough becomes too soft while working, chill it briefly to avoid stickiness and ensure easy handling.
- Prevent Soggy Bottoms: Sprinkle a light layer of flour or sugar in the crust before adding filling to absorb excess moisture and keep your Mini Cherry Pies perfectly crispy.
- Check for Doneness: Look for a golden crust and bubbling filling before removing pies from the oven to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Creative Flavor Twists: Don’t hesitate to add a pinch of cinnamon or almond extract to the cherry filling for a delightful aromatic enhancement.
- Lattice Topping Magic: If using leftover dough for a lattice topping, remember to weave strips loosely to allow for even baking and extra appeal.
Make Ahead Options
These Mini Cherry Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crusts and filling up to 24 hours in advance for easy assembly. Simply roll out the pie crust and cut it into circles, then press the dough into the muffin tin and store them covered in the refrigerator. You can also spoon the cherry pie filling into an airtight container and refrigerate it separately. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the prepped crusts with the chilled filling, brush with egg white, sprinkle sugar, and bake for 25–30 minutes. This way, you achieve delicious, homemade results with minimal effort on busy days!
How to Store and Freeze Mini Cherry Pies
Fridge: Store baked Mini Cherry Pies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while allowing you to enjoy their delightful taste.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the mini pies in a freezer-safe container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 1 month. This way, you can have a sweet treat ready anytime!
Thawing: Thaw frozen Mini Cherry Pies in the refrigerator for a few hours before reheating to maintain their flaky crust.
Reheating: To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes, ensuring they are warmed through and the crust is crispy again.
Mini Cherry Pies Variations & Substitutions
Get ready to make these delightful desserts your own with some fabulous twists and turns!
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Blueberry Bliss: Substitute cherry filling with blueberry filling for a juicy, vibrant alternative that’s equally delicious.
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Peachy Keen: Swap in peach filling and add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a fresh, summer-inspired flavor that sings with warmth.
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Chocolate-Cherry Combo: Mix in chocolate chips with the cherry filling for a decadent twist. The chocolate brings a rich depth to the fruity goodness!
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Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, to the cherry filling for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender crust.
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Spiced Pumpkin: In the fall, switch to spiced pumpkin filling instead of cherries for an autumn-themed treat that’s just as charming and delicious.
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Mango Tango: Use mango pie filling for a tropical flair. The bright, sweet flavors are sure to whisk you away to a sunny paradise with every bite.
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Mini Tarts: Instead of filling with pie filling, use fresh fruits or custard for a light, refreshing take on the classic Mini Cherry Pies.
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Savory Spin: For an adventurous option, fill with savory ingredients like goat cheese and herbs instead. These make for an unexpected yet delightful appetizer!
Let your creativity shine and turn these Mini Cherry Pies into your signature dessert!
Mini Cherry Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! When selecting cherry pie filling, look for quality brands that emphasize whole cherries and minimal artificial flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider making your own filling with fresh or frozen cherries by simmering them with sugar and a cornstarch slurry until thickened for an elevated taste.
What’s the best way to store leftover Mini Cherry Pies?
You can store your Mini Cherry Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help keep the crusts crisp while maintaining the juicy filling’s deliciousness. Remember to let them cool completely before storing to avoid condensation, which can make the crust soggy.
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Can I freeze Mini Cherry Pies? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze baked Mini Cherry Pies! First, let them cool completely, then wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge for a few hours, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
What if my crust is too sticky to handle?
Very! If you find that your dough is sticky while preparing your Mini Cherry Pies, I recommend chilling it for about 15-20 minutes. This will help re-firm the fat in the dough, making it easier to roll out. Additionally, dusting your work surface and rolling pin with a little flour can also help prevent sticking as you work.
Can these pies be made with different fruit fillings?
Absolutely! While the classic Mini Cherry Pies are delicious, you can easily substitute the filling with other fruits like blueberry, peach, or even a chocolate chip-cherry combo for a fun twist. Just ensure that the filling you choose complements the crust, and you’ll have a delightful new treat to share.
Are there any allergy considerations I should know about?
Yes, it’s important to consider allergens when making Mini Cherry Pies, especially if you are serving guests. The primary ingredients to watch out for include gluten from the pie crust and egg in the egg wash. You can opt for gluten-free pie crusts and use a dairy or egg-free milk alternative for brushing if needed. Always ensure that the cherry filling does not contain allergens, especially if using a store-bought brand.
Deliciously Easy Mini Cherry Pies for Sweet Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin.
- Roll out your store-bought pie crust on a clean surface and use a round cutter to cut out 3 ½–4-inch circles.
- Gently press the dough circles into the greased muffin cups to create mini crusts.
- Spoon your cherry pie filling into each crust, filling them about ⅔ full.
- If desired, roll out leftover dough, cut into strips, and weave a lattice on top.
- Brush the tops of the pies with beaten egg white and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Allow to cool for about 15–20 minutes before gently lifting them out.
