If you are looking for a delightful treat that combines the nostalgic charm of classic cherry pie with a fun, bite-sized twist, you have to try this Delicious Cherry Pie Bites Recipe. These little gems pack all the vibrant cherry flavor and flaky crust goodness into perfectly portable morsels. They are quick to whip up, irresistibly sweet, and are just the right size for sharing or enjoying with a cup of tea. Whether it’s for a party, a casual dessert, or simply a special snack, these cherry pie bites bring the joy of homemade pie into a convenient and crowd-pleasing form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Each component plays its part in making these pie bites irresistibly flaky, sweet, and juicy.
- Refrigerated pie crusts: These provide a buttery, flaky base that bakes to a perfect golden crisp without any fuss.
- Cherry pie filling: The star of the show, offering vibrant color, sweetness, and that classic cherry pie taste.
- Cornstarch: This thickens the filling so it’s not runny, making every bite neat and satisfying.
- Water: Combined with cornstarch to activate it and create a glossy, firm filling.
- Sugar (optional): Sprinkled on top after baking to add a touch of sparkle and subtle extra sweetness.
How to Make Delicious Cherry Pie Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s perfectly hot when the pie bites go in. Grease your mini muffin tin or line it with mini muffin liners to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze.
Step 2: Cut the Pie Crust Circles
Unroll those refrigerated pie crusts and slice them into small circles about 2 inches in diameter. A cookie cutter or the rim of a glass works perfectly here. These circles become the little cups that hold your delicious cherry filling.
Step 3: Thicken the Cherry Filling
In a small saucepan, mix the cherry pie filling with the cornstarch and water. Heat it over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, which usually takes around 3 to 4 minutes. Once thickened, set it aside to cool slightly — this step prevents the crust from getting soggy.
Step 4: Shape the Pie Crust Cups
Press each dough circle gently into the mini muffin tin cups to form tiny bowls. This creates the perfect structure for holding the thickened cherry filling.
Step 5: Fill the Crusts
Spoon a small amount of the thickened cherry filling into each pie crust cup. Be careful not to overfill, so the filling doesn’t bubble over while baking.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the muffin tin into your oven and bake the cherry pie bites for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the crust is beautifully golden brown and the filling is bubbling with deliciousness.
Step 7: Add Finishing Touches
If you want a little extra sparkle and crunch, sprinkle the tops with sugar once the bites come out of the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes in the pan before gently removing and serving.
How to Serve Delicious Cherry Pie Bites Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely snowy look and a hint of extra sweetness to these bites. For a fresh, bright touch, a few mint leaves or a dollop of whipped cream make fantastic complements.
Side Dishes
Serve these cherry pie bites alongside vanilla ice cream or a scoop of lemon sorbet for a delightful contrast of temperature and flavor. For a more indulgent pairing, a rich coffee or a glass of sparkling rosé elevates the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange the pie bites on a tiered dessert stand to showcase their charm. You could also place each bite in a colorful cupcake liner to add a pop of fun. Another idea is to serve them warm in individual ramekins with a miniature fork for an elegant dessert plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate them for up to four days to maintain freshness without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, these cherry pie bites freeze wonderfully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to two months, ready whenever a pie craving hits.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the pie bites in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warm and crisp. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy and chewy instead of flaky and delightful.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?
While fresh cherries can be used, the canned cherry pie filling is already sweetened and thickened to the perfect consistency, making the recipe easier and more consistent. If using fresh cherries, you’ll need to add sugar and thicken with cornstarch yourself.
Is it necessary to thicken the cherry filling with cornstarch?
Yes, thickening the filling prevents it from being too runny, which helps the pie bites hold their shape and avoids soggy crusts. The cornstarch also makes the filling glossy and more flavorful.
Can I make these pie bites gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pie crusts available in most grocery stores to make this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive friends and family without sacrificing taste or texture.
How long can I store leftover pie bites at room temperature?
Leftover pie bites can be stored at room temperature for up to two days in an airtight container, but for longer storage and better freshness, refrigeration is recommended.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, doubling the recipe is easy and perfect for bigger gatherings. Just be sure to have a couple of mini muffin tins handy and adjust baking times slightly if needed.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about sharing a homemade treat that’s both adorable and delicious. This Delicious Cherry Pie Bites Recipe makes it so easy to bring that joy to your table. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and incredible flavor, these mini pies offer a delightful twist to traditional cherry pie. You’re going to love how everyone lights up after tasting these bite-sized bursts of cherry sweetness. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to keep it in your dessert rotation forever!
Print
Delicious Cherry Pie Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious Cherry Pie Bites are mini treats featuring a crisp, golden refrigerated pie crust filled with a thickened cherry filling. Perfect for parties or a sweet snack, these bite-sized morsels combine the classic flavors of cherry pie in easy-to-eat portions baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts
Filling
- 1 can cherry pie filling (about 21 oz)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
Topping
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare muffin tin: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or line it with mini muffin liners to prevent sticking.
- Cut pie crust circles: Unroll the refrigerated pie crusts and use a cookie cutter or a glass to cut out small circles approximately 2 inches in diameter.
- Thicken cherry filling: In a small saucepan, combine cherry pie filling, cornstarch, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the filling thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Line muffin cups: Place each pie crust circle into the mini muffin tin, gently pressing them to fit into the cups evenly.
- Fill crusts: Spoon a small amount of the slightly cooled cherry filling into each pie crust-lined muffin cup.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the crusts turn golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbly.
- Add topping and cool: Optionally sprinkle sugar on top of each pie bite while still warm. Allow the cherry pie bites to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use refrigerated pie crusts for convenience and quick preparation.
- Ensuring the cherry filling is thickened before baking prevents soggy crusts.
- You can substitute sugar topping with a light dusting of powdered sugar if preferred.
- Let bites cool slightly to set the filling and avoid burns.
- Mini muffin liners make clean-up easier and keep the bites looking tidy.
