Quick Cherry Pie Bites

Sweet and Simple Cherry Pie Bites

Growing up in sunny Orlando, my heart has always embraced the warmth of Mexico’s bold flavors. I spent countless afternoons in my mama’s kitchen, pressing homemade tortillas and learning the art of seasoning from my abuela. Those cherished moments taught me that food embodies love, laughter, and unforgettable stories shared at the dinner table. Although Orlando is my home, my heart dances through Oaxaca’s vibrant mercados. Today, I’m thrilled to share a delightful recipe for quick cherry pie bites, merging simplicity with the sweetness of cherry filling—perfect for celebrating life’s little moments.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 12 bites
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Best Season: All year round

Top Reasons to Make These Cherry Pie Bites

Quick and Easy: These bites are not only simple to prepare but also an excellent way to satisfy your sweet tooth in no time. Perfect for a last-minute dessert!
Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a cozy family night, or a picnic with friends, these cherry pie bites will be a hit.
No Fancy Equipment Needed: With just a few kitchen essentials, anyone can whip up these delicious treats. Just roll and bake!
Deliciously Sweet: Bursting with cherry flavor, these bites are a delightful mix of flaky crust and fruity filling—absolutely irresistible!
Customizable: Feel free to switch up the fruit filling or add spices to suit your taste buds. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients List

1 package of refrigerated pie crusts
1 can of cherry pie filling
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon of sugar (for sprinkling)
Vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)

Ingredient Tips

Pie Crust: Use high-quality refrigerated pie crusts for the best texture. If you have the time, homemade crusts can elevate the flavor!
Cherry Pie Filling: Opt for a brand with whole cherries for a more satisfying bite. Fresh cherries can also be used if you prefer making your filling.
Egg Wash: This creates a golden glaze that makes your bites visually appealing. If you’re looking for a vegan option, brushed almond milk works well too!
Sugar: Use coarse sugar for a beautiful, crunchy finish. You can also try cinnamon sugar for added flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking and a perfect golden brown finish.
Roll out the pie crust and cut it into small circles, about 3-4 inches in diameter. Use a biscuit cutter or a cup for an even shape.
Place a small spoonful of cherry pie filling in the center of each circle. Be careful not to overfill, or they may burst while baking.
Fold the pie crust over the filling and press the edges to seal. You can crimp them with a fork for a decorative touch.
Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar. This step is key to achieving that delightful golden color.
Place the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them as ovens can vary.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired. It’s the perfect complement to the cherry filling!

Pro Secrets for Success

Chill the Dough: If the dough is too warm, it can be challenging to work with. Chill it for about 10 minutes before cutting for better handling.
Test a Small Batch First: Before making a whole batch, do a small test run to adjust flavors and baking time if needed.
Use Seasonal Fruit Fillings: In summer, try blueberry or peach, while fall might call for apple or pumpkin—experiment throughout the year!
Double the Recipe: These bites disappear fast, so making a double batch ensures there’s enough for everyone.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Cherry Bites: Add a few chocolate chips inside each bite for a rich, decadent twist on the classic flavor.
Cream Cheese Cherry Bites: Mix cream cheese with the cherry filling for added creaminess and a contrasting tanginess.
Mini Cherry Galettes: Instead of folding, create little free-form tarts by leaving the edges open, resulting in a charming rustic finish.
Savory Spin: Mix cherry filling with balsamic reduction and cheese for a unique savory-sweet appetizer.

Perfect Pairings

Beverages: Serve with a chilled glass of milk or a warm cup of herbal tea to balance the sweetness of the cherry pie bites.
Sides: Light salads or fruit platters provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the bites.
Desserts: Pair with fresh whipped cream or additional vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience.

Make Ahead & Freezer Tips

Refrigerate: Prepare the pie bites and refrigerate before baking for up to 2 hours. This can help with flavor development.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last up to three months.
Reheating: Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time for perfectly baked bites.

Serving Ideas

Plating: Arrange the bites on a colorful platter, perhaps garnished with mint leaves for a fresh touch.
Garnish: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful finishing touch.
Ice Cream Pairing: Offer different ice cream flavors for a fun dessert bar experience, allowing guests to create their perfect combination.

Kitchen Wisdom

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always go for fresh, high-quality ingredients to enhance the final flavor of your pie bites.
Keep Everything Cold: Ensure your butter and crust remain cold during preparation for optimal flakiness.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to use different extracts, like almond, to elevate your bite’s essence.
Practice Pie Crust Skills: Rolling and cutting circles can improve with practice, so don’t worry if they’re not perfect on your first try!

Storage & Reheating Tips

Microwave: For a quick reheat, use your microwave but check in short intervals to avoid making them chewy.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, covering it to help generate some steam; this method helps retain a fluffy crust.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pie crust? Absolutely! Homemade pie crust adds extra flavor and flakiness, making these bites even more delightful.
Can I make these bites with other fruits? Definitely! You can swap out cherry filling for any fruit pie filling or even fresh fruits mixed with sugar and cornstarch.
How do I know when they are done baking? Look for a golden brown color on the crust, and that they’re slightly puffed up.
Can I leave the sugar off? Yes, if you prefer a less sweet version, feel free to omit the sugar topping.
What fruits pair well with cherry in this recipe? Apples, peaches, and blueberries all complement cherry beautifully and can be combined for an exciting flavor profile.
How can I add more flavor? Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth and richness to each bite.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 bite
Calories: 150
Protein: 1g
Carbs: 20g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 5g
Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary. Consult a nutritionist for precise info.

A Warm Reflection

Creating and enjoying sweet cherry pie bites reminds us that the best moments in life are often shared around the table. Food has a magical way of bringing friends and family closer together, evoking memories and laughter that linger long after the last crumb is gone. By making these delightful bites, you’re not just treating your taste buds—you’re weaving connections, sharing stories, and spreading joy. Each bite is a testament to the love and warmth found in kitchens across the world.

From My Kitchen to Yours

I truly invite you to whip up these quick cherry pie bites and let the delicious aroma fill your home. Whether you enjoy them with a scoop of ice cream or sprinkled with love, I hope they bring smiles and joy just like they have in my kitchen. Don’t forget to try, pin, and share your own cherry pie bites, celebrating the simple yet profoundly sweet moments in life!