Cherry Pie Bites are like tiny bursts of joy wrapped in flaky bliss. Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, gooey pocket of sweet cherry goodness, with a crust so buttery it could make angels weep. These delightful morsels are the perfect treat for gatherings, cozy nights at home, or whenever you need a pick-me-up that’s both delicious and nostalgic.
Growing up, my grandmother would whip up cherry pie bites every summer when the cherries were ripe and ready to burst with flavor. The aroma wafting through her kitchen would have us lining up like eager puppy dogs, drooling and dreaming of that first taste. Now, I carry on this tradition and enjoy making these bites for friends and family during barbecues, holidays, or just because it’s Tuesday. Trust me; every bite is a sweet little kiss of summer nostalgia.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cherry Pie Bites are incredibly easy to prepare and will impress your guests with their taste
- With a mix of sweet and tart flavors, they are sure to satisfy any dessert lover’s craving
- Their delightful presentation makes them perfect for parties or a fun family dessert night
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to use other fruits if cherries aren’t your jam!
Ingredients for Cherry Pie Bites
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Cherries: Choose ripe, juicy cherries for the best flavor. You can pit them yourself or buy pre-pitted ones for convenience.
Puff Pastry Sheets: Look for high-quality frozen puff pastry in your grocery store’s freezer section. It creates that flaky texture we all crave.
Sugar: Granulated sugar enhances the sweetness of the cherry filling. Feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
Cornstarch: This thickens the cherry mixture so you don’t end up with a soggy mess. It’s like magic!
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla adds depth to the flavor profile, making these bites extra special.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cherry Pie Bites
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your Cherry Pie Bites bake evenly and turn golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, toss together pitted cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until well combined. Let this sit while you roll out the puff pastry.
Step 3: Roll Out Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets until they’re about an eighth of an inch thick. Cut them into squares—think mini post-it notes but way more delicious!
Step 4: Fill the Pastry
Place a spoonful of cherry filling in the center of each pastry square. Don’t be shy; let those cherries shine! Fold over each square diagonally to form triangles.
Step 5: Seal Them Up
Press down on the edges with a fork to seal those beauties tightly. This prevents any filling from escaping during baking because nobody wants a messy kitchen!
Step 6: Bake
Transfer the bites onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and pop them into your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up like little pillows of joy.
Transfer to plates and enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
These Cherry Pie Bites are not just pastries; they’re tiny portals back to summers spent laughing in my grandmother’s kitchen. So grab some cherries and get baking—your taste buds will thank you!
You Must Know
- These delightful Cherry Pie Bites are not just delicious; they bring a burst of nostalgia with every bite
- Perfect for parties, picnics, or a sweet treat at home, these little gems are sure to impress
- They’re easy to make and even easier to devour!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you prepare the filling. Roll out the dough, fill each bite with cherry goodness, and seal them tight. Bake until golden brown for perfectly crisp bites that will make your taste buds dance.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cherries for blueberries or mixed berries if you’re feeling adventurous. A dash of almond extract can add a delightful twist. You could also sprinkle some powdered sugar on top post-baking for an added touch of sweetness.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Cherry Pie Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For reheating, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to regain their crispness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best flavor, use fresh cherries when in season; frozen will work if fresh aren’t available
- Seal the edges well to prevent filling from leaking during baking
- Let them cool before serving to avoid burning your tongue!
After making these Cherry Pie Bites for my family gathering, I remember my cousin declaring them “the best thing since sliced bread.” It felt like I’d won a culinary award right there in my kitchen!
FAQs :
What are Cherry Pie Bites?
Cherry Pie Bites are delightful mini desserts that capture the classic flavors of traditional cherry pie in a bite-sized format. They typically consist of a flaky pastry crust filled with sweet, juicy cherries and baked to golden perfection. These treats are perfect for parties, picnics, or simply as a sweet snack at home. Easy to make, Cherry Pie Bites offer all the deliciousness of a full pie without the hassle.
How do you make Cherry Pie Bites from scratch?
To make Cherry Pie Bites from scratch, start by preparing the pastry dough using flour, butter, sugar, and water. Roll out the dough and cut it into small circles. For the filling, combine fresh or frozen cherries with sugar and cornstarch. Spoon this mixture into the center of each pastry circle and fold them over before sealing. Bake until golden brown for a delightful treat that everyone will love.
Can I use different fruits for Cherry Pie Bites?
Absolutely! While cherries give these bites their name and flavor, you can easily substitute them with other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. Each fruit will lend its unique taste to the bites while maintaining the same flaky crust and overall appeal. Experimenting with different fillings can create new favorites for your dessert table.
How should I store leftover Cherry Pie Bites?
To store leftover Cherry Pie Bites, first allow them to cool completely. Place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to absorb any moisture. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage. If freezing, ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Reheat in the oven before serving for that fresh-baked taste.
Conclusion for Cherry Pie Bites :
Cherry Pie Bites are an easy and delectable treat perfect for any occasion. With their flaky crusts and sweet cherry filling, these mini desserts bring joy in every bite. Making them from scratch is simple, allowing you to customize flavors as desired. Whether you enjoy them fresh or store leftovers for later indulgence, these bites will surely impress family and friends alike. Try making Cherry Pie Bites today for a delightful dessert experience!
Cherry Pie Bites
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Cherry Pie Bites are delightful mini pastries that capture the essence of summer in every bite. Encased in a flaky puff pastry crust, these treats are filled with a sweet and tart cherry mixture that will transport you back to childhood memories spent in the kitchen. Perfect for parties, picnics, or a cozy night at home, these bites are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Impress your family and friends with these charming desserts that are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh pitted cherries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package (17.3 oz) frozen puff pastry sheets (2 sheets)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract; mix well and set aside.
- On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thick and cut into squares.
- Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each square; fold diagonally to form triangles.
- Seal edges with a fork and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Cherry Pie Bite (approximately 43g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
