Ingredients
Scale
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.
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.
Notes
- Keep the Dough Cool
- Warm dough can become sticky and hard to work with. Chill the dough briefly if it becomes too soft.
- Prevent Soggy Bottoms
- Sprinkle a tiny bit of flour or sugar in the crust before adding the cherry filling to absorb excess moisture.
- Customize the Filling
- Add a dash of cinnamon or almond extract to the cherry pie filling for a unique twist.
- Perfect Lattice Crusts
- Use a ruler for uniform strips and a chilled dough for clean cuts.
- Check for Doneness
- Look for a golden crust and bubbling filling. This ensures the pies are fully cooked.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes