Delicious Cherry Pie Bites

Why You’ll Love Delicious Cherry Pie Bites Recipe

Cherry Pie Bites are a bite-sized, portable version of a classic dessert that captures the sweet, tangy, and fruity goodness of cherry pie. These little pockets of joy are easy to make, and they pack all the flavors of a traditional cherry pie into a mini, hand-held treat. Whether you’re serving them at a party, bringing them to a picnic, or just enjoying a quick dessert at home, Cherry Pie Bites are sure to be a crowd favorite. They’re delicious, convenient, and incredibly satisfying!

Ingredients

• 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)

• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Roll out one of the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Using a round cutter or the rim of a glass, cut out circles of dough (about 3 inches in diameter).

3. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir until well mixed and the sugar begins to dissolve.

4. Place about a tablespoon of the cherry mixture in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill.

5. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.

6. Carefully fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges of the dough together to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

7. Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the top of each pie bite for a golden finish.

8. Optional: Sprinkle coarse sugar on top for added texture and sweetness.

9. Bake the pie bites for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

10. Allow the cherry pie bites to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 12-15 Cherry Pie Bites.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Different Fruit Fillings: You can easily substitute cherries with other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches for a different twist.

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust to make these Cherry Pie Bites gluten-free.

• Mini Cherry Pies: If you prefer a more traditional pie shape, you can make larger pockets by cutting the dough into bigger circles, adding more filling, and folding it over to create a pocket.

• Almond Flavor: Add a little almond extract to the filling for a delightful almond flavor that pairs wonderfully with cherries.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the Cherry Pie Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: These bites freeze well. Once they have cooled completely, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. After they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good for up to 2-3 months.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the pie bites in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up.

FAQs

Can I use canned cherries for this recipe?

Yes, canned cherries can be used, but make sure to drain and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

Can I make these Cherry Pie Bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and dough in advance, then assemble the pie bites and bake them when you’re ready to serve. You can also freeze the unbaked bites and bake them later.

Can I make this recipe with frozen cherries?

Yes, frozen cherries can be used. Just thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess liquid in the filling.

How do I prevent the dough from becoming soggy?

Ensure that you don’t overfill the pie bites and that the cherries are drained properly if you’re using frozen or canned fruit. This helps prevent the dough from getting soggy.

Can I make the dough from scratch?

Absolutely! If you prefer homemade pie dough, feel free to use your favorite recipe instead of store-bought.

How do I seal the edges of the dough properly?

To seal the dough, simply press the edges together with your fingers, and then crimp the edges with a fork to create a decorative and tight seal.

Can I add a glaze to these Cherry Pie Bites?

Yes, you can drizzle a glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled pie bites for extra sweetness and a professional touch.

How long will the pie bites last?

The pie bites will stay fresh for about 2 days at room temperature or up to 5 days in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.

How can I make these Cherry Pie Bites more festive?

For a fun, festive touch, you can add colorful sprinkles on top or cut the dough into fun shapes like hearts or stars for holidays or special occasions.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar, brown sugar, or a sugar substitute to meet your dietary preferences.

Conclusion

Cherry Pie Bites are a fun and delightful twist on the classic cherry pie. With their flaky, buttery crust and sweet, juicy cherry filling, they’re the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a party dessert or a snack to enjoy with a cup of coffee, these pie bites are sure to impress. Easy to make, portable, and totally delicious, Cherry Pie Bites will quickly become a favorite in your dessert rotation!