If you’re searching for a delightful treat that’s both charming and bursting with flavor, the Cherry Pie Bites Recipe is exactly what you need. These little pockets of golden puff pastry filled with luscious cherry pie filling create the perfect harmony of tart and sweet, wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust. They are incredibly easy to make yet feel special enough to impress guests or simply satisfy your own cravings on a cozy afternoon. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe promises a fun and rewarding baking experience that culminates in irresistibly delicious small bites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cherry Pie Bites Recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in delivering the perfect balance of texture and flavor—flaky pastry, rich cherry filling, and a touch of sugar sparkle on top.
- 1 sheet puff pastry: This is your buttery and flaky vessel, providing the perfect texture contrast to the juicy filling.
- 1 cup cherry pie filling: The star ingredient, offering that classic cherry flavor and vibrant red color.
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch: Helps thicken the cherry filling so it won’t run when baked.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Adds extra sweetness to balance the tart cherries.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Enhances the brightness and adds a subtle zing.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Gives a warm depth of flavor that complements the cherries beautifully.
- 1 egg: Used in the egg wash, it creates a gorgeous golden sheen on the pastry.
- 1 tablespoon water: Combined with the egg for a smooth egg wash.
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar: Sprinkled on top for a delightful crunch and sparkle.
How to Make Cherry Pie Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Puff Pastry
Start by preheating your oven to a warm 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid sticking. While the oven warms up, take the puff pastry from the fridge, roll it out gently on a floured surface, and cut it into 12 equal squares. This creates the perfect size for each delicious bite.
Step 2: Mix the Cherry Filling
In a medium bowl, blend the cherry pie filling with cornstarch, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. This mixture not only intensifies the flavor but also ensures the filling thickens nicely so it won’t leak during baking. The balance of tart and sweet here is key to that irresistible cherry taste we all crave.
Step 3: Assemble the Bites
Place about a teaspoon of the cherry filling right in the center of each pastry square. Then whisk the egg with water to create an egg wash. Brush the edges of each square with this wash to help with sealing the pastry. Fold the squares into little packets, pressing down firmly on the edges to lock in the filling. This step guarantees your bites won’t open or lose their cherry goodness as they bake.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Arrange your filled pie bites seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Give each a brush of egg wash on top and sprinkle a pinch of coarse sugar for a sparkling finish. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until your Cherry Pie Bites Recipe puffs up beautifully and turns a perfect golden brown. Let them cool for a few minutes before enjoying.
How to Serve Cherry Pie Bites Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Cherry Pie Bites Recipe, consider light dustings of powdered sugar, or for a decadent touch, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Fresh mint leaves can add a pop of green and a refreshing aroma as well.
Side Dishes
These bite-sized treats pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy snack. For a brunch spread, consider serving them alongside creamy yogurt or a fresh fruit salad to balance the rich pastry and tart cherries.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the baking sheet—arrange your Cherry Pie Bites Recipe on a rustic wooden board for a charming rustic vibe or serve them on colorful dessert plates with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. Mini cupcake liners can keep each bite neat and add visual appeal for parties or gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store your Cherry Pie Bites Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps keep the pastry flaky and the filling fresh without becoming soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked pie bites by assembling them as directed, then placing them on a tray to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for convenience and freshness anytime you crave them.
Reheating
To bring your bites back to life, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can soften the flaky crust.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?
Absolutely! If using fresh cherries, you’ll need to cook them down with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice to thicken the filling before assembling the bites. This allows you to customize sweetness and freshness.
Is puff pastry the only type of dough that works?
Puff pastry is best for the signature flakiness, but you could use pie crust dough if you prefer a sturdier texture. Just keep in mind the baking time might vary slightly.
How long can I keep these pie bites at room temperature?
They’re best enjoyed within two days at room temperature. After that, the texture of the pastry may start to soften and lose its crispness.
Can I make these bites vegan?
Yes! Use vegan puff pastry and substitute the egg wash with a mix of plant-based milk and maple syrup or aquafaba for that golden finish.
What’s the best way to prevent the filling from leaking?
Brushing the edges with egg wash and sealing them tightly is key. Also, thickening your filling with cornstarch helps it set during baking and stay inside the pastry pockets.
Final Thoughts
These Cherry Pie Bites Recipe are pure joy in every flaky, fruity mouthful. Easy to make and utterly scrumptious, they bring a little bit of homemade charm to any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try them—baking these little bites is like gifting yourself a tasty slice of happiness, perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own!
Print
Cherry Pie Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 12 cherry pie bites
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cherry Pie Bites are delightful bite-sized pastries filled with a sweet cherry filling, perfect for a quick dessert or snack. Made with flaky puff pastry and a mix of cherry pie filling, lemon juice, and vanilla, these treats are baked until golden and sprinkled with coarse sugar for a crispy finish.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry
Cherry Filling
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Egg Wash and Topping
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet and cut it into 12 equal squares to create the base for the cherry pie bites.
- Make Cherry Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cherry pie filling, cornstarch, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth, ensuring the filling is well blended and slightly thickened by the cornstarch.
- Fill Pastry Squares: Place about 1 teaspoon of the cherry filling in the center of each pastry square, being careful not to overfill to prevent leakage.
- Apply Egg Wash to Edges: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to make an egg wash; brush the edges of each pastry square which helps to seal the pastry securely.
- Form Bites: Fold each square into a bite-size packet, pressing the edges to seal completely and trap the filling inside.
- Arrange and Decorate: Arrange the filled bites seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, brush the tops with egg wash, and sprinkle with coarse sugar for a glossy, crunchy finish.
- Bake: Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown, indicating the bites are cooked through and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bites to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving to let the filling settle and prevent burns.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh or frozen cherries if you prefer to make your own filling.
- Ensure the puff pastry is well chilled before rolling for best puff and flakiness.
- If the pastry begins to puff unevenly, gently pierce the top to release steam.
- These bites can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or frozen before baking for up to 1 month.
- For a dairy-free version, use a suitable vegan puff pastry and substitute egg wash with plant-based milk mixed with maple syrup.
