The aroma of freshly baked Mini Cherry Pies wafts through the air, teasing your taste buds and drawing you closer to the kitchen. Imagine a flaky, buttery crust cradling sweet, tart cherries that burst with flavor at the slightest touch—it’s a dessert that makes your heart skip a beat. delicious dessert options
These delightful little pies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer picnic or simply craving something sweet after dinner. With every bite, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate, leaving you in pure bliss.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Mini Cherry Pies are a breeze to prepare, perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers
- Their vibrant red filling creates an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering
- These tiny treats offer the ideal balance of sweet and tart, making them irresistible
- Plus, they freeze beautifully for later indulgence!
I remember the first time I made Mini Cherry Pies; my friends devoured them in minutes and begged for the recipe. creative dessert recipes fun holiday desserts
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cherries: Opt for ripe, juicy cherries for the best sweetness; pit them before use.
- Granulated Sugar: Use just enough to enhance the natural sweetness of the cherries without overpowering them.
- Lemon Juice: A splash adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the cherries perfectly. fruit-filled dessert ideas.
- Cornstarch: This thickener helps create a luscious filling that holds together beautifully.
- Baking Powder: A leavening agent that gives your crust that fluffy, airy texture everyone loves.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness; it adds richness and flavor to your crust.
- All-Purpose Flour: The base for your crust; sift well to avoid clumps and ensure even mixing.
- Egg Wash (Egg + Water): Gives your pies that gorgeous golden-brown finish when baked.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Workspace: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all ingredients and tools like mixing bowls and measuring cups to streamline your baking process.
Make the Cherry Filling: In a bowl, combine pitted cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Stir gently until cherries are well coated and let sit for about 15 minutes.
Create the Pie Crust: In another bowl, mix flour and baking powder. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Liquid Ingredients: Gradually stir in ice water until dough forms. Avoid over-mixing; it should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Roll Out Dough & Assemble Pies: Divide dough into small balls, roll out into circles on a floured surface. Place circles in muffin tins or mini pie pans then add cherry filling.
Bake & Enjoy!: Brush tops with egg wash for shine. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before indulging in these delicious bites!
Now that you’ve created these charming Mini Cherry Pies, prepare yourself for compliments from anyone who tries them! They’re not only delicious but also a testament to your newfound baking skills! For more inspiration, check out this Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
You Must Know
- Mini cherry pies are a delightful treat that brings joy to any gathering
- Their flaky crust, sweet cherry filling, and perfect portion size make them irresistible
- Plus, they are easy to prepare, ensuring you’ll impress your guests without breaking a sweat!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by making your pie crust while the cherries simmer on the stove. This multitasking ensures everything is fresh and ready at the same time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cherries for blueberries or even peaches for a fruity twist. Experiment with spices like cinnamon for an exciting flavor boost.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover mini cherry pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly flaky crusts, chill your butter before mixing it in
- Avoid overmixing the dough; this keeps it tender
- Always taste your filling before baking for sweetness adjustment
Creating mini cherry pies always reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen filled with laughter and the sweet smell of baking. She taught me that every pie tells a story, and I love sharing these stories through my cooking.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cherries for mini cherry pies?
Yes, frozen cherries work great; just thaw and drain excess juice before using.
How do I know when my mini cherry pies are done?
Look for a golden-brown crust and bubbling filling as signs of doneness.
Can I make mini cherry pies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and bake just before serving.
Mini Cherry Pies
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 12 mini pies 1x
Description
Mini Cherry Pies are the perfect bite-sized dessert that combines a flaky, buttery crust with a luscious cherry filling. These delightful treats are not only easy to make but also visually appealing, making them a hit at any gathering. With just the right balance of sweet and tart flavors, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether for a summer picnic or a cozy night in, these Mini Cherry Pies will leave everyone craving more!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh pitted cherries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 egg + 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Let sit for 15 minutes.
- In another bowl, combine flour and baking powder. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
- Gradually add ice water until dough forms. Avoid over-mixing.
- Roll out dough into circles and place in muffin tins. Fill with cherry mixture.
- Brush tops with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini pie (55g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
