As a passionate home cook, I often find myself reminiscing about the sweet aromas wafting through my grandmother’s kitchen. One of my fondest memories is of her making cherry pie from scratch, the vibrant red filling bubbling away, and the flaky crust golden brown. Today, I want to share a delightful twist on that classic dessert: Quick Cherry Pie Bites. These little gems are not only easy to make but also capture the essence of that nostalgic cherry pie in a bite-sized form.
Imagine the first bite—crisp, buttery crust giving way to a luscious, sweet cherry filling that dances on your taste buds. The beauty of Quick Cherry Pie Bites lies in their simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time, making them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy weeknight treat. Plus, they’re a hit with both kids and adults alike!
In our busy lives, finding time to bake can be a challenge. That’s why I love this recipe; it allows me to create something special without spending hours in the kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into the world of these delightful cherry pie bites that are sure to become a family favorite!
What is Quick Cherry Pie Bites?
Quick Cherry Pie Bites are a delightful fusion of tradition and convenience, inspired by the classic American cherry pie. This recipe takes the essence of a beloved dessert and transforms it into bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing. The origins of cherry pie can be traced back to early American settlers who brought their love for fruit desserts from Europe. Over the years, cherry pie has become a staple in American culture, often associated with summer picnics and holiday gatherings.
These little bites encapsulate the joy of cherry pie without the fuss of a full-sized dessert. Using refrigerated pie crusts and canned cherry pie filling, they offer a quick and easy solution for those who crave the comforting flavors of home-baked goods. The beauty of Quick Cherry Pie Bites lies in their versatility; they can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them a delightful addition to any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Quick Cherry Pie Bites
- Convenience: Ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
- Taste: A delicious blend of flaky crust and sweet cherry filling that satisfies any sweet tooth.
- Health Benefits: Made with simple ingredients, these bites can be a lighter dessert option.
- Family Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love these fun, handheld treats!
Who It’s For
Quick Cherry Pie Bites are ideal for busy families looking for a quick dessert solution, health-conscious cooks who appreciate simple ingredients, and food lovers who enjoy a nostalgic treat with a modern twist. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned chef, these bites are accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
When to Cook It
These delightful bites are perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving a sweet snack after a long day, Quick Cherry Pie Bites fit the bill. They also make a fantastic addition to potlucks, picnics, or holiday gatherings, bringing a touch of homemade goodness to any event.
How to Make the Perfect Quick Cherry Pie Bites
Ingredients
- 1 can cherry pie filling: This is the star of the show, providing that sweet, tangy flavor we all love. You can also use homemade cherry filling if you have the time!
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts: These save you time and effort, giving you a flaky, buttery base without the hassle of making dough from scratch. If you prefer, you can use puff pastry for a different texture.
- 1 egg (for egg wash): This helps achieve a beautiful golden color on the crust. If you want a vegan option, you can use a mixture of plant-based milk and a bit of oil instead.
- Granulated sugar (for sprinkling): A light sprinkle adds a touch of sweetness and a lovely crunch to the top. You can substitute with coarse sugar for extra sparkle.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your bites bake evenly and become perfectly golden.
- Prepare the pie crust: Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut them into small circles, about 3 inches in diameter.
- Add the filling: Place a spoonful of cherry pie filling in the center of each circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing difficult.
- Seal the bites: Fold each circle over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
- Brush and sprinkle: In a small bowl, whisk the egg and brush it over the tops of the pie bites. Sprinkle with granulated sugar for that extra sweetness and crunch.
- Bake: Place the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
- Cool and serve: Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
For People with Diabetes: Sugar Substitutes
- Stevia: A natural sweetener that has no calories and won’t spike blood sugar levels.
- Monk fruit: Another great zero-calorie option that adds sweetness without affecting blood sugar.
- Allulose: A low-calorie sugar that tastes like sugar but is absorbed differently by the body.
It’s best to avoid honey or maple syrup as substitutes, as they can still raise blood sugar levels significantly.
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Round cutter or glass (for cutting pie crusts)
- Small bowl (for egg wash)
- Fork (for crimping edges)
- Oven mitts
Top Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chill Your Dough: Renowned pastry chef Julia Child always emphasized the importance of keeping your dough cold. This helps achieve a flakier crust. If your pie crusts feel warm, pop them in the fridge for a few minutes before cutting.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Chef Ina Garten swears by using the best ingredients you can find. Opt for high-quality cherry pie filling or make your own for a fresher taste.
- Experiment with Spices: Celebrity chef Martha Stewart suggests adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cherry filling for an extra layer of flavor. It enhances the sweetness and adds warmth.
- Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: Chef Thomas Keller highlights the importance of an egg wash for that beautiful golden finish. It not only adds color but also helps the sugar adhere to the crust.
- Serve with a Twist: Food network star Ree Drummond recommends pairing your Quick Cherry Pie Bites with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store any leftover Quick Cherry Pie Bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked bites in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the bites on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain their crispiness.
- Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave them for about 20-30 seconds, but be aware that this may make the crust less crispy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling the Bites: Adding too much cherry filling can cause the bites to burst open while baking. Stick to a spoonful for the perfect balance.
- Not Sealing Properly: Failing to seal the edges well can lead to leaks during baking. Make sure to press firmly and crimp with a fork for a secure seal.
- Skipping the Egg Wash: Omitting the egg wash can result in a pale, unappetizing crust. The wash gives your bites a beautiful golden color and helps the sugar stick.
- Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Baking at too low a temperature can lead to soggy bites. Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.
- Not Letting Them Cool: Serving the bites immediately can lead to a messy experience. Allow them to cool for a few minutes to set the filling and make them easier to handle.
FAQs About Quick Cherry Pie Bites
Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned filling for Quick Cherry Pie Bites?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Just make sure to pit and slice them, and consider adding a bit of sugar to enhance their sweetness.
Q: Are Quick Cherry Pie Bites suitable for freezing?
Yes, these bites freeze beautifully! Just make sure to store them in an airtight container after baking for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I make Quick Cherry Pie Bites ahead of time?
It depends. You can prepare the bites and freeze them before baking, or bake them in advance and store them in the fridge for a few days.
Q: Is it possible to make Quick Cherry Pie Bites gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pie crusts to make these bites suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Q: Do Quick Cherry Pie Bites need to be served warm?
No, they can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for any occasion!
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Quick Cherry Pie Bites
In just a short time, you can create these delightful Quick Cherry Pie Bites that are sure to impress your family and friends. Their sweet, tangy filling and flaky crust make them a perfect treat for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these bites as much as I do! If you try this recipe, please leave a comment below and let me know how they turned out. Don’t forget to share this recipe with fellow food lovers who appreciate easy, delicious desserts!
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Quick Cherry Pie Bites: Delicious, Easy-to-Make Desserts for Any Occasion
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious, easy-to-make desserts for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 can cherry pie filling
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pie crusts and cut them into small circles.
- Place a spoonful of cherry pie filling in the center of each circle.
- Fold the circles over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges.
- Brush the tops with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- These can be made ahead of time and frozen.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pie bite
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Quick Cherry Pie Bites