Indulging in a mini cherry pie is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly day; the sweet aroma of baked cherries fills the air and beckons you closer. Picture this: flaky, buttery crust enveloping a tangy, juicy cherry filling that dances on your taste buds, creating a delightful symphony of flavors. As you take that first bite, the warm juices burst forth, bringing with them memories of summer picnics and family gatherings.
I still remember the first time I made these mini cherry pies for my friend’s birthday bash. The look on her face when she took a bite was priceless, as if she had just discovered treasure buried in her backyard! These little delights are perfect for any occasion—be it a casual Sunday brunch or an extravagant holiday feast—and I promise they will bring joy to your table and smiles to your guests.
Why You'll Love This mini cherry pie
- This incredible mini cherry pie transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
My little cousin once devoured three mini cherry pies in one sitting and declared it “the best day ever!”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cherries: Opt for sweet, ripe cherries; they provide the best flavor and sweetness for your filling.
- Pie Crust: You can use store-bought or homemade; just ensure it’s flaky and buttery to complement the filling.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cherries perfectly; adjust based on your taste preference.
- Cornstarch: This thickening agent helps achieve that perfect texture without being gummy.
- Lemon Juice: A splash adds brightness to the filling, balancing out the sweetness beautifully.
- Butter: A few pats melted on top before baking create an irresistible golden crust.
- Egg Wash (optional): An egg wash gives your crust a beautiful golden sheen as it bakes.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make mini cherry pie
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse and pit your cherries before slicing them in half.
Create the Cherry Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine cherries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and mix until well-coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow juices to form.
Roll Out Your Pie Crust: On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pie dough until it’s about ⅛ inch thick. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or glass—aim for about 4 inches across.
Assemble Your Mini Pies: Place dough circles into greased muffin tins. Fill each with about one tablespoon of cherry filling. Top with another dough circle or leave open-faced as desired.
Add Finishing Touches: If using an egg wash, brush it over the crusts for that golden look. Sprinkle with sugar for extra sweetness before popping them in the oven.
Bake and Enjoy: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving—this will keep you from burning your tongue in anticipation!
You Must Know About mini cherry pie
- This showstopping mini cherry pie delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create your mini cherry pie masterpiece, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, prepare your pie crust while the oven warms up—this will save you precious time and avoid a last-minute scramble. Once prepped, fill the crust with cherries mixed with sugar and cornstarch before placing it in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, allowing those delicious aromas to fill your kitchen.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this mini cherry pie according to your taste! You can switch out cherries for blueberries or peaches if you’re feeling adventurous. Add a splash of almond extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance the fruit’s natural flavors. For a twist on the classic, consider drizzling some melted chocolate over the top before serving.
Storing & Reheating
To store your delicious mini cherry pie, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, simply reheat slices in a warm oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips for mini cherry pie
- This professional-quality mini cherry pie relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
Sometimes, I like to think this mini cherry pie has magical properties—it’s been known to turn ordinary gatherings into unforgettable celebrations! One time, my friends raved about it so much that I considered renaming it “The Pie of Friendship” because it truly brings people together.
FAQ
What type of cherries should I use for mini cherry pie?
Using fresh sweet cherries is ideal for a deliciously vibrant flavor in your mini cherry pie. If fresh cherries aren’t available, opt for frozen ones instead; just ensure they are thawed and drained well before using them in your filling. Sour cherries also work beautifully if you prefer a tart kick; just adjust sugar levels accordingly to balance their tanginess.
Can I make the crust from scratch?
Absolutely! Making your own crust can elevate your mini cherry pie even further. Combine flour, butter, salt, and a bit of water until you reach a dough consistency that can be rolled out easily. Homemade crust adds that extra touch of love and authenticity—plus, it’s easier than you might think!
How do I know when my mini cherry pies are done baking?
Keep an eye on those little beauties as they bake! When the crust turns golden brown and juices start bubbling out of the vent holes or edges, it’s a good indication that they’re ready. A thermometer inserted into the filling should read about 190°F (88°C) as well.
Can I freeze my mini cherry pies?
Yes! To freeze your mini cherry pies, ensure they are fully cooled before wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They can be stored in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. When ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.
Conclusion for mini cherry pie
Creating these delightful mini cherry pies offers an opportunity to unleash your inner pastry chef while bringing joy to friends and family alike. Remember to perfect your cooking process by preparing each step carefully and adding personal touches along the way. Don’t forget about proper storing techniques so you can enjoy them later! With these tips under your belt, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this iconic dessert that’s sure to become a favorite at every gathering.
Mini Cherry Pie
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 mini pies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of mini cherry pies, where sweet, juicy cherries meet a flaky, buttery crust. These charming treats are perfect for any occasion, from casual brunches to festive gatherings. With their vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma, mini cherry pies not only taste incredible but also make a stunning addition to your dessert table. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, they’re sure to impress your friends and family!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh sweet cherries, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Egg wash (1 egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract; let sit for 10 minutes.
- Roll out the pie crust on a floured surface and cut into 4-inch circles.
- Place dough circles into greased muffin tins and fill each with about one tablespoon of cherry filling.
- Top with another dough circle or leave open-faced as desired. Brush with egg wash if using and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini pie (70g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
