We’ve always adored the classic charm of cherry pie with its sweet tart burst of fruit but wanted something more bite-sized and shareable. That’s why our Cherry Pie Bites recipe brings all that nostalgic flavor into easy handheld treats perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
These delightful bites pack the same homemade goodness as a full pie yet take less time to whip up. We’re confident you’ll love how simple ingredients transform into crowd-pleasing desserts that elevate any occasion.
Whether you’re a baking newbie or pro our step-by-step guide makes it a breeze to create these irresistible goodies.
Ingredients
In our Cherry Pie Bites recipe, we select simple, fresh ingredients to create bite-sized delights that burst with cherry flavor, making them perfect for any occasion.
For the Pie Crust
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted for easy mixing
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed to keep the dough flaky
- ¼ cup granulated sugar, for a subtle sweetness
- ¼ teaspoon salt, to enhance the flavors
For the Cherry Filling
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved for quick assembly
- ½ cup granulated sugar, adjusted to taste based on cherry sweetness
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch, to thicken the filling without altering the taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed for a bright, tangy note
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, for added depth of flavor
Additional Items
- 1 large egg, beaten for an egg wash that gives a golden finish
- 1 tablespoon milk, to mix with the egg for a smooth wash
This list ensures our recipe is straightforward and uses ingredients in the order they are prepared, from crust to filling and finishing touches.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our Cherry Pie Bites to life seamlessly after gathering the ingredients, we rely on a few essential tools and equipment. These items ensure precise preparation and baking, making the process efficient and enjoyable for bakers of all levels.
We recommend the following key tools, organized by their role in the recipe:
- Mixing Bowls: A set of medium and large mixing bowls for combining dry ingredients like flour and sugar with wet components such as butter and eggs. Opt for sturdy, non-slip bowls to prevent spills during vigorous stirring.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measuring cups and spoons are crucial for precise measurements of ingredients like 2 cups of flour or 1 teaspoon of salt, helping us achieve the perfect crust texture every time.
- Rolling Pin: A rolling pin for rolling out the pie dough evenly. We suggest a non-stick version to make shaping the dough for bite-sized pieces straightforward and mess-free.
- Mini Muffin Tin: Essential for creating the bite-sized form of our Cherry Pie Bites, a mini muffin tin allows us to bake uniform portions that hold the cherry filling securely. Use a standard 24-cup tin for optimal results.
- Pastry Brush: A soft pastry brush for applying the egg wash, giving our bites that irresistible golden finish without over-saturating the dough.
- Cherry Pitter or Paring Knife: For preparing the fresh cherries, a cherry pitter speeds up pitting, or a sharp paring knife works as an alternative to remove pits efficiently and safely.
- Baking Sheet and Parchment Paper: A baking sheet lined with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy, ensuring our Cherry Pie Bites bake evenly in the oven.
With these tools on hand, we’re set to transition smoothly from mixing ingredients to baking delicious, homemade treats. Always check that your equipment is clean and in good condition for the best baking outcomes.
Instructions
We guide you through every step to craft irresistible Cherry Pie Bites using the fresh ingredients and tools we’ve outlined. Our straightforward process ensures perfect results, even for novice bakers.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, we gather and prep all components for efficiency. Wash 2 cups of fresh cherries under cold water and remove the pits using a cherry pitter or paring knife—aim for about 1 pound to yield juicy filling. Measure out 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of unsalted butter (chilled and cubed), ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon of salt for the crust. For the filling, set aside ½ cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Finally, beat 1 large egg with 1 tablespoon of milk to create the egg wash. This preparation sets the stage for smooth assembly and highlights the vibrant red hue of the cherries that promises a burst of tart sweetness in every bite.
Make the Cherry Filling
We create the luscious cherry filling that forms the heart of our Cherry Pie Bites. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the pitted cherries, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir constantly for 8-10 minutes until the mixture thickens and the cherries release their juices—watch for the glossy sheen and irresistible aroma of warm fruit that signals it’s ready. Remove from heat and let it cool for 10 minutes; this step ensures the filling sets properly, delivering a sweet-tart explosion with each mini bite that elevates the homemade charm of your treats.
Prepare the Crust
Next, we form a flaky crust that provides the perfect base for our Cherry Pie Bites. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Add the ½ cup of chilled cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—this takes about 2-3 minutes for that ideal tender texture. Gradually add 3-4 tablespoons of ice water, mixing just until the dough holds together without being sticky. Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to ⅛-inch thickness, then use a 2-inch round cutter to create circles. Our technique guarantees a golden, buttery crust that contrasts beautifully with the cherry filling’s vibrancy.
Assemble the Pie Bites
With everything prepped, we assemble the Cherry Pie Bites for a fun and rewarding process. Press each dough circle into the cups of a greased mini muffin tin, ensuring they form neat cups. Spoon 1-2 teaspoons of the cooled cherry filling into each crust, taking care not to overfill for even baking. Brush the edges with the beaten egg wash mixture to seal and promote a shiny finish. If desired, top with another small dough circle and gently press the edges to enclose the filling—picture the juicy cherries nestled in buttery layers, ready to bake into bite-sized delights that are ideal for sharing.
Bake the Pie Bites
Finally, we bake the Cherry Pie Bites to achieve that crave-worthy texture. Preheat your oven to 375°F and place the filled muffin tin on a lined baking sheet for easy handling. Bake for 18-22 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and the filling bubbles slightly—use a timer to track this for consistent results. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This baking method locks in the flaky crispness and sweet aroma, making your Cherry Pie Bites a standout homemade treat.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To keep Cherry Pie Bites fresh and flavorful after baking, we recommend planning ahead for convenience and ensuring they retain their irresistible cherry essence and flaky crust. Let’s break down our tips for preparing in advance and storing properly.
Make-Ahead Tips
We love making Cherry Pie Bites even easier by prepping components ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld and saving us valuable time on busy days.
- Prepare the Cherry Filling in Advance: Cook the filling as outlined in our recipe, then let it cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. This step enhances the cherry’s natural tartness and sweetness, making assembly quicker when you’re ready to bake.
- Make the Pie Dough Ahead: After mixing the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the wrapped dough for up to 1 month—just thaw it in the fridge overnight before rolling. This ensures a tender, flaky texture without compromising quality.
- Assemble the Bites Early: If you’re hosting, fill and seal the bites in the mini muffin tin, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the dough to rest, resulting in a golden, bubbly finish straight from the oven.
Storage Tips
Proper storage helps maintain the delightful senses of Cherry Pie Bites—their crisp exterior, juicy cherry center, and aromatic vanilla notes—so they taste just-baked even days later.
For quick reference on storage durations, we’ve compiled the details in the table below:
| Storage Method | Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Cool bites completely on a wire rack, then store in an airtight container. Ideal for short-term enjoyment to preserve the fresh, warm-from-the-oven texture. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 5 days | Place cooled bites in an airtight container or wrap individually in plastic wrap. This keeps the filling from drying out and maintains moisture for a soft, flavorful bite. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Arrange bites in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispness and prevent sogginess. |
By following these strategies, we can enjoy Cherry Pie Bites whenever the craving hits, with minimal effort and maximum taste.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this simple recipe for Cherry Pie Bites, turning classic flavors into fun, bite-sized delights that bring people together. It’s a quick way to add homemade charm to any occasion, no matter your baking skills.
Whether you’re prepping for a gathering or a quiet evening, these treats are sure to impress. Give them a try and let us know how yours turn out—we’re confident they’ll become a favorite in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cherry Pie Bites?
Cherry Pie Bites are bite-sized versions of classic cherry pie, offering the same delicious flavor in a fun, shareable format. They’re easy to make at home, perfect for beginners, and ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in. This recipe uses simple ingredients for a homemade taste without much effort.
What ingredients do I need for Cherry Pie Bites?
For Cherry Pie Bites, you’ll need ingredients for the crust (all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and salt) and filling (fresh cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract). Don’t forget a beaten egg and milk for the egg wash. These fresh components ensure a flavorful, golden treat.
What tools are required to make Cherry Pie Bites?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a rolling pin, a mini muffin tin, a pastry brush for egg wash, and a cherry pitter or paring knife. Use a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking, ensuring precise preparation.
How do I make Cherry Pie Bites?
Start by preparing the cherry filling: cook pitted cherries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla until thickened. Make the crust by mixing flour, sugar, and butter, then roll it out. Press dough into a mini muffin tin, add filling, seal with egg wash, and bake at the recommended temperature until golden and bubbly.
Can I make Cherry Pie Bites ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the cherry filling and pie dough in advance to save time and let flavors develop. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture. This makes it convenient for events or busy days, ensuring fresh, delicious bites when you need them.
How should I store Cherry Pie Bites?
Store Cherry Pie Bites at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating to maintain their flaky crust and juicy filling.