Mini Cherry Pies

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Who doesn’t love cherry pie? Mini Cherry Pies take this classic dessert to the next level, offering all the charm of a full-sized pie in a portable, single-serving size. They’re perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or simply treating yourself to a whole pie that’s all yours. With just four simple ingredients and an hour of your time, you can create these adorable, flaky, and fruity delights.

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Let’s dive into this easy, irresistible recipe and discover the joy of baking Mini Cherry Pies!

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 package (2 9-inch) store-bought pie crust: Ready-made crust makes this recipe quick and hassle-free, though homemade pie dough is also an option for extra flair.

For the Filling

• 2 cups cherry pie filling: A convenient and delicious option that brings a burst of sweetness and vibrant color to each pie.

For the Topping

• 1 egg white, slightly beaten: Used to create a golden, glossy finish.
• Sugar for sprinkling: Adds a touch of sparkle and sweetness to the crust.

Equipment Needed

• Muffin tin (10–11 cups capacity)
• Cookie cutter or glass (3 ½–4-inch diameter)
• Knife or pizza cutter
• Pastry brush

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease the muffin tin lightly to ensure easy removal of the pies later.

2. Cut the Pie Crust

• Unroll one pie crust onto a clean, flat surface.
• Use a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out 3 ½–4-inch circles.
• Repeat with the second pie crust if needed.

3. Shape the Crusts

• Place each dough circle into a muffin cup.
• Gently press the dough into the bottom and up the sides to form a mini crust.

4. Add the Cherry Filling

• Spoon cherry pie filling into each crust, filling about ⅔ of the way to allow room for bubbling.

5. Create the Lattice Topping (Optional)

• Roll out leftover dough and cut into thin strips (about ¼–⅓ inch wide) using a knife or pizza cutter.
• Weave the strips together to form a lattice pattern, then place on top of each pie.
• Press the edges gently to seal and trim any excess dough.

6. Brush and Sprinkle

• Lightly brush the tops of each pie with the beaten egg white.
• Sprinkle a pinch of sugar over the top for added sweetness and a sparkling effect.

7. Bake

• Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust turns lightly golden and the filling begins to bubble.

8. Cool and Remove

• Let the pies cool in the muffin tin for at least 15–20 minutes.
• Carefully loosen the edges of each pie with a knife and gently lift them out of the tin.

Flavors and Textures

Flavors

• The buttery, flaky crust pairs beautifully with the sweet and slightly tart cherry filling.
• The sugar topping adds just the right hint of crunch and sweetness.

Textures

• Each bite offers the perfect balance of crisp crust, luscious fruit filling, and a tender interior.

Tips for Perfect Mini Cherry Pies

1. Keep the Dough Cool
   • Warm dough can become sticky and hard to work with. Chill the dough briefly if it becomes too soft.
2. Prevent Soggy Bottoms
   • Sprinkle a tiny bit of flour or sugar in the crust before adding the cherry filling to absorb excess moisture.
3. Customize the Filling
   • Add a dash of cinnamon or almond extract to the cherry pie filling for a unique twist.
4. Perfect Lattice Crusts
   • Use a ruler for uniform strips and a chilled dough for clean cuts.
5. Check for Doneness
   • Look for a golden crust and bubbling filling. This ensures the pies are fully cooked.

Variations

Blueberry Bliss

• Replace the cherry pie filling with blueberry pie filling for a new flavor profile.

Peachy Keen

• Use peach pie filling and sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top for a summery twist.

Chocolate-Cherry Combo

• Add a few chocolate chips to the cherry filling before baking for a decadent treat.

Serving Suggestions

• Freshly Baked: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Elegant Display: Arrange mini pies on a decorative platter for a festive dessert table.
• Picnic-Ready: Wrap each pie individually for easy grab-and-go treats.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked pies for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and warm in the oven before serving.

Why Mini Cherry Pies Are a Must-Try

These Mini Cherry Pies offer everything you love about classic cherry pie in a convenient, bite-sized form. They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, enjoying a summer picnic, or simply craving something sweet, these adorable pies will never disappoint.

Gather your ingredients and start baking—these little delights are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy every bite! 🥧🍒✨