Mini Cherry Pies are the delightful little bites that burst with sweet-tart cherry goodness, enveloped in a flaky pastry crust. Each bite feels like a warm hug from your grandma who insists on giving you dessert before dinner, and honestly, who can blame her? The aroma of these mini treats baking in your oven will have the entire neighborhood knocking at your door, begging for just one taste. Easter Swirl Pie
Imagine gathering around the table with family or friends, sharing stories while nibbling on these gorgeous cherry pies. They’re perfect for any occasion—from cozy weekends at home to festive holiday gatherings. With every bite, you’ll experience a delightful explosion of flavors that will make you wonder why you ever settled for store-bought desserts.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Mini Cherry Pies are easy to whip up, making them perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
- The balance of sweet and tart flavors creates an irresistible treat everyone loves.
- Their cute individual portions make them ideal for parties or casual get-togethers.
- Plus, they look so adorable on a dessert table that you won’t be able to resist taking photos!
Ingredients for Mini Cherry Pies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cherries: Use ripe cherries for a sweet filling; pit and chop them before adding to the pie.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar helps balance the tartness of the cherries; adjust based on your sweetness preference.
- Cornstarch: This thickening agent creates a luscious filling without making it too gooey.
- Lemon Juice: A splash adds brightness and enhances the natural flavor of the cherries.
- Pie Crust: You can use store-bought or homemade crust; it’s all about personal preference here.
- Egg Wash (optional): Beaten egg mixed with water gives a beautiful golden finish to your pies.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this Recipe Index recipe.
How to Make Mini Cherry Pies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine fresh cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir until well mixed and set aside while you handle the crust.
Step 3: Roll Out Your Pie Crust
If using homemade dough, roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about an eighth of an inch thick. If you’re using store-bought crusts, simply unroll them and press them into your muffin tin.
Step 4: Fill the Crusts
Cut circles from your dough large enough to fit into each muffin cup. Place them in the cups and fill each with your cherry mixture until just overflowing.
Step 5: Top It Off
Using leftover dough, create small stars or circles to place on top of each pie if desired—or simply leave them open-faced for a rustic look!
Step 6: Bake Those Cuties
Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving!
Transfer to plates and enjoy perfectly portioned Mini Cherry Pies that will leave everyone asking for more.
You Must Know
- These delightful mini cherry pies are not just adorable; they are the perfect sweet treat for any occasion.
- Their flaky crust and juicy filling create a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds singing.
- Plus, they make a charming addition to any dessert table.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by making the pie crust while your cherries simmer with sugar and lemon juice. Roll out the dough, fill with the sweet cherry mixture, and bake until golden brown. This sequence ensures crispy crusts and perfectly cooked filling.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cherries for blueberries or peaches if you’re feeling fruity. Add a pinch of cinnamon to the filling for warmth or top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store your mini cherry pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes when ready to enjoy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use cold butter for a flakier crust; it helps create those beautiful layers we all love.
- Avoid overfilling the pies to prevent spills during baking.
- Let the pies cool before serving to enhance their flavor and texture.
Sometimes I whip these mini cherry pies up when friends come over, and the smiles on their faces make all the effort worthwhile. It’s like bringing a little slice of happiness to every gathering!
FAQs:
What are the best ingredients for Mini Cherry Pies?
For delicious Mini Cherry Pies, fresh or frozen cherries work beautifully. Combine them with sugar, cornstarch, and a splash of lemon juice for the perfect filling. For the crust, use all-purpose flour, butter or a dairy-free alternative, and a pinch of salt. To enhance flavor, consider adding vanilla extract. Experiment with spices like cinnamon to elevate taste. This combination ensures your pies are sweet and bursting with cherry flavor.
Can I make Mini Cherry Pies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Mini Cherry Pies ahead of time. Simply bake them and let them cool completely. Store the cooled pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for about four days. If you want to freeze them, wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Reheat in the oven before serving for that freshly baked taste.
How do I prevent my pie crust from getting soggy?
To keep your Mini Cherry Pies’ crust crispy, start by pre-baking the crust slightly before adding the filling. Brush the bottom with egg wash or melted butter to create a barrier against moisture. Additionally, ensure that your cherry filling is not overly juicy by using cornstarch to thicken it properly. These steps will help maintain a flaky, delicious crust that holds up beautifully. For more inspiration, check out this Cherry Kiss Cookies recipe.
Can I substitute cherries with other fruits in Mini Pies?
Yes, you can easily substitute cherries with other fruits in Mini Pies! Consider using blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches for a different flavor profile. Adjust sugar according to the fruit’s sweetness level and follow similar steps for preparing the filling. The versatility of this recipe allows you to experiment with seasonal fruits while maintaining that delightful mini pie experience.
Conclusion for Mini Cherry Pies:
In summary, making Mini Cherry Pies is a delightful process that combines fresh cherries with a flaky crust for an irresistible treat. By using quality ingredients and following simple techniques, you can ensure your pies are bursting with flavor while maintaining a crispy texture. Mini Banana Pudding Cheesecakes Whether you’re preparing them ahead of time or experimenting with different fruit fillings, these charming little desserts are sure to impress everyone at your next gathering. Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Enjoy your baking adventure!
Mini Cherry Pies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 mini pies 1x
Description
Mini Cherry Pies are delectable, bite-sized delights that combine a sweet-tart cherry filling nestled in a flaky, golden crust. Perfect for any occasion, these mini treats bring a sense of nostalgia and joy to gatherings with family and friends. Easy to make yet impressive in flavor and presentation, they are sure to be the star of any dessert table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 package (14 oz) pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir well and set aside.
- Roll out the pie crust on a floured surface until about 1/8 inch thick. Cut circles to fit in muffin cups.
- Place the dough in each muffin cup and fill with cherry mixture.
- Top with additional dough cutouts if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
