There’s something magical about the aroma of cherry pie wafting through the house. It takes me back to summer afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where we’d bake together, laughter mixing with the sweet scent of cherries. Cherry Pie Bites capture that nostalgia in a delightful, bite-sized treat. They’re perfect for a quick dessert solution after a busy day or a charming way to impress friends at your next gathering. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create these scrumptious bites that are sure to bring smiles all around.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pie Bites
Cherry Pie Bites are the ultimate dessert for anyone who craves something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. They’re quick to whip up, taking just 40 minutes from start to finish. Each bite is a burst of cherry goodness, perfectly balanced with a flaky crust. Plus, they’re versatile! You can easily switch up the filling or add spices to suit your taste. Who wouldn’t love a treat that’s both easy and delicious?
Ingredients for Cherry Pie Bites
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Cherry Pie Bites. Here’s what you’ll need:
All-purpose flour: The foundation of your crust, providing structure and a tender bite.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough, balancing the tartness of the cherries.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and brings everything together.
Unsalted butter: Cold and cubed, it creates a flaky texture that melts in your mouth.
Cream cheese: This adds richness and a slight tang, making the crust even more delicious.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this aromatic essence elevates the overall flavor profile.
Cherry pie filling: The star of the show! Use your favorite brand or homemade for a personal touch.
Egg (for egg wash): Gives the bites a beautiful golden finish when baked.
Powdered sugar (optional): A light dusting on top adds a sweet touch and a pretty presentation.
For those looking to mix things up, consider substituting the cherry filling with blueberry or apple pie filling. You can also sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for an extra layer of flavor. The exact quantities for each ingredient are listed at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print and take to the kitchen!
How to Make Cherry Pie Bites
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the Cherry Pie Bites from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Trust me, a clean kitchen is a happy kitchen!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. This simple step sets the stage for a delicious crust. The right balance of these dry ingredients is key to achieving that perfect texture.
Step 3: Incorporate Butter and Cream Cheese
Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter and cream cheese to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This is where the magic happens! The butter and cream cheese create that flaky, tender crust we all love.
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Step 4: Add Vanilla and Form Dough
Stir in the vanilla extract, mixing until the dough comes together. If it feels too crumbly, add a teaspoon of cold water at a time until it holds. This dough should be soft yet manageable. It’s the foundation for your Cherry Pie Bites, so make it count!
Step 5: Roll and Cut Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a sharp knife or a round cutter to cut the dough into squares or circles, about 3 inches in size. This is where you can get creative! The shapes can be as fun as you want them to be.
Step 6: Fill and Seal
Place a teaspoon of cherry pie filling in the center of each dough piece. Fold the dough over to create a pocket and pinch the edges to seal. For a decorative touch, use a fork to crimp the edges. This not only seals in the delicious filling but also adds a charming look!
Step 7: Brush and Bake
Brush the tops of the pie bites with the beaten egg for that golden finish. Then, pop them in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait for them to cool!
Tips for Success
Use cold ingredients for a flakier crust; it makes a world of difference!
Don’t overwork the dough; mix just until combined for the best texture.
Experiment with different fillings; cherry isn’t the only star in this show!
Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary, and you want that perfect golden brown.
Let them cool slightly before serving; they’ll be easier to handle and taste even better!
Equipment Needed
Baking sheet: A standard one works great, but a stone or insulated sheet can help with even baking.
Parchment paper: Use it for easy cleanup; aluminum foil is a good alternative.
Mixing bowls: Any size will do, but a large bowl makes mixing easier.
Pastry cutter or fork: If you don’t have a pastry cutter, your fingers can work just fine!
Rolling pin: A wine bottle can substitute in a pinch!
Variations
Fruit Fillings: Swap out the cherry pie filling for other fruits like blueberry, apple, or even peach for a different flavor experience.
Spiced Dough: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced twist that complements the fruit filling beautifully.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these Cherry Pie Bites suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegan Version: Replace the butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg instead of the egg wash for a plant-based treat.
Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bites for an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Cherry Pie Bites with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
Serve them warm with a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra indulgent treat.
For a refreshing drink, try a glass of iced tea or lemonade alongside.
Present them on a colorful platter, dusted with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
FAQs about Cherry Pie Bites
Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh cherries, just pit and chop them, then mix with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create a filling. This gives a fresh twist to your Cherry Pie Bites.
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How do I store leftover Cherry Pie Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain that fresh-baked taste!
Can I freeze Cherry Pie Bites?
Yes! These bites freeze beautifully. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, try using mascarpone cheese or even Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Both will add creaminess to the dough without compromising flavor.
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Are Cherry Pie Bites suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, these Cherry Pie Bites are vegetarian-friendly! Just ensure that the pie filling you choose is also vegetarian. Enjoy these delightful treats without any worries!
Final Thoughts
Creating Cherry Pie Bites is more than just baking; it’s about crafting memories and sharing joy. Each bite is a little piece of nostalgia, reminiscent of family gatherings and sunny afternoons. The ease of this recipe means you can whip them up anytime, whether for a casual weeknight treat or a special occasion. Watching friends and family savor these delightful morsels brings a smile to my face. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let these Cherry Pie Bites fill your home with warmth and sweetness. Trust me, they’ll become a cherished favorite in no time!
Cherry Pie Bites are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that combines the classic flavors of cherry pie in a bite-sized form.
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/4 cup cream cheese, cold and cubed
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup cherry pie filling
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
Add the cold cubed butter and cream cheese to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until the dough comes together. If the dough is too crumbly, add a teaspoon of cold water at a time until it holds together.
Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
Cut the dough into squares or circles, about 3 inches in size.
Place a teaspoon of cherry pie filling in the center of each square or circle.
Fold the dough over to create a pocket and pinch the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
Brush the tops of the pie bites with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired.
Notes
For a twist, substitute the cherry pie filling with blueberry or apple pie filling.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra flavor.
