As a passionate home cook, I find joy in creating desserts that evoke nostalgia and warmth. Cherry Pie Bites are one of those recipes that transport me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the sweet aroma of cherries filled the air. These delightful little pastries are not just a treat; they are a celebration of family gatherings and cherished moments. With each bite, you experience the perfect balance of tart cherries and flaky crust, making them irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging after a long day, Cherry Pie Bites are sure to bring smiles to your table.
What is Cherry Pie Bites?
Cherry Pie Bites are delightful, bite-sized pastries filled with sweet, juicy cherries, encased in a flaky crust. Originating from the classic American cherry pie, these mini treats offer all the comforting flavors of the traditional dessert but in a more portable form. They are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a quick snack. The beauty of Cherry Pie Bites lies in their versatility; you can use fresh or frozen cherries, making them a year-round favorite. With their sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen, these bites are sure to become a cherished recipe in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pie Bites
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Deliciously sweet and tart, satisfying your dessert cravings.
- Healthier than traditional pies, with portion control in mind.
- Great for family gatherings, kids love them!
Who It’s For
Cherry Pie Bites are ideal for busy families looking for a quick dessert option, health-conscious cooks who want to indulge without overdoing it, and food lovers who appreciate a globally inspired treat. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, these bites are approachable and fun to make.
When to Cook It
These Cherry Pie Bites are perfect for various occasions, including weeknight dinners, birthday parties, holiday celebrations, or simply as a sweet treat after a family meal. They can also be a delightful addition to potlucks or picnics, bringing a taste of home wherever you go.
How to Make the Perfect Cherry Pie Bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries: The star of the show! Fresh cherries provide a vibrant flavor, while frozen cherries are convenient and just as delicious.
- 1/2 cup sugar: This sweetens the filling. You can adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: This thickens the cherry filling, giving it a nice texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the cherry flavor.
- 1 package of pre-made pie crusts: A time-saver! You can use store-bought or homemade crusts if you prefer.
- 1 egg (for egg wash): Gives the bites a beautiful golden color when baked.
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash): Helps create a shiny finish on the crust.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
- Prepare the cherry filling: In a saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly. The aroma will be heavenly!
- Roll out the pie crusts: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pie crusts and cut them into small circles, about 3 inches in diameter.
- Fill the dough: Place a spoonful of the cherry mixture in the center of each circle. Be careful not to overfill!
- Seal the bites: Fold the dough over to create a pocket and press the edges firmly to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
- Prepare the egg wash: In a small bowl, mix the egg and milk. Brush this mixture over the tops of the bites for a golden finish.
- Bake: Place the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and flaky.
- Cool and serve: Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the delightful burst of cherry flavor!
For People with Diabetes: Sugar Substitutes
- Stevia: A natural sweetener with zero calories, perfect for those watching their sugar intake.
- Monk fruit: Another great option, it’s low in calories and has a sweet taste without affecting blood sugar levels.
- Allulose: A rare sugar that has minimal impact on blood glucose, making it a suitable choice for diabetics.
It’s best to avoid honey or maple syrup as substitutes, as they can still raise blood sugar levels significantly.
Tools You’ll Need
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Medium saucepan
- Rolling pin
- 3-inch round cookie cutter or glass
- Fork (for sealing edges)
- Small bowl (for egg wash)
- Pastry brush
Top Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Use Cold Ingredients: Many chefs recommend using cold butter and chilled pie crusts for a flakier texture. This helps create those delightful layers in your Cherry Pie Bites.
- Don’t Overfill: A common mistake is overfilling the bites. Keep the filling to about a tablespoon to ensure they seal properly and bake evenly.
- Experiment with Spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cherry filling can elevate the flavor profile, giving your bites a unique twist.
- Brush with Egg Wash: For that perfect golden color, don’t skip the egg wash! It not only enhances the appearance but also adds a slight sheen to the crust.
- Chill Before Baking: If you have time, chill the assembled bites in the fridge for about 15 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape better during the baking process.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover Cherry Pie Bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, place the unbaked bites on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating Baked Bites: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bites for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
- Microwave Option: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave a single bite for about 20-30 seconds, but this may result in a softer crust.
- Serving Suggestions: For the best flavor, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling the Bites: Adding too much cherry filling can cause the bites to burst open while baking. Stick to about a tablespoon for the perfect seal.
- Skipping the Egg Wash: Not brushing the tops with egg wash can result in pale, unappetizing bites. The egg wash gives them a beautiful golden color and a nice sheen.
- Using Warm Ingredients: If your pie crust or butter is warm, it can lead to a tough texture. Always use cold ingredients for a flaky crust.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure the bites bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown.
- Ignoring the Cooling Time: Cutting into the bites too soon can result in a messy filling. Allow them to cool for a few minutes to set before serving.
FAQs About Cherry Pie Bites
Q: Can I use frozen cherries for Cherry Pie Bites?
Yes, frozen cherries work perfectly in this recipe and save you time on preparation.
Q: Are Cherry Pie Bites suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly, as it primarily uses fruits and pie crusts.
Q: Can I make Cherry Pie Bites ahead of time?
It depends; you can prepare them in advance and freeze them before baking for a quick dessert later.
Q: Do Cherry Pie Bites need to be served warm?
No, while they are delicious warm, they can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
Q: How long do Cherry Pie Bites last in the fridge?
Yes, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Cherry Pie Bites
Cherry Pie Bites are not just a dessert; they are a delightful way to create memories with family and friends. Their sweet, tart flavor and flaky crust make them a favorite for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making these bites as much as I do! If you try this recipe, please share your thoughts in the comments below or share it with your friends. Happy baking!
Print
Cherry Pie Bites
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 bites 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and easy-to-make recipe for cherry pie bites that are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package of pre-made pie crusts
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens.
- Roll out the pie crusts and cut them into small circles.
- Place a spoonful of the cherry mixture in the center of each circle.
- Fold the dough over to create a pocket and seal the edges.
- Mix the egg and milk to create an egg wash, and brush it over the tops of the bites.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- For a sweeter filling, adjust the sugar to taste.
- These can be made ahead of time and frozen before baking.
- Serve with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Cherry Pie Bites