Mini Cherry Pies

These Mini Cherry Pies are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that captures the sweet and tart flavor of cherry pie in a bite-sized form. Perfect for gatherings, parties, or a cozy treat at home, these mini pies are both simple and delicious. With a golden, flaky crust and a rich cherry filling, they are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the classic cherry pie.

Ingredients

1 package refrigerated pie crusts
2 cups canned cherry pie filling

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crusts and use a cookie cutter to cut out small circles.
3. Place the circles in a muffin tin and fill each with cherry pie filling.
4. Use the remaining pie crust to create a lattice or topping for each mini pie.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
6. Let cool before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Use fresh cherries: If you prefer fresh cherries, you can make your own filling by cooking down pitted cherries with sugar and cornstarch to create a similar texture to canned pie filling.
• Add a crumble topping: For a twist, top the pies with a buttery crumble made from flour, sugar, and butter instead of a traditional lattice crust.
• Swap out the cherry filling: You can substitute the cherry filling with other fruit fillings like apple, blueberry, or peach for a different flavor experience.
• Glazed finish: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the top after baking for extra sweetness and shine.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: These mini cherry pies can be stored at room temperature for 1-2 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to regain the crispy texture of the crust. You can also microwave them for 20-30 seconds if you’re in a hurry, though the crust may not be as crispy.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen pie crusts instead of refrigerated ones?
   Yes, frozen pie crusts work well, though they should be thawed before using.
2. Can I make the filling from scratch?
   Absolutely! You can cook fresh cherries with sugar and cornstarch to create a homemade cherry filling.
3. How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
   Make sure to bake the pies until the crust is golden brown and crisp, and avoid overfilling them with the pie filling.
4. Can I freeze mini cherry pies?
   Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pies on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake them directly from frozen when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
5. Can I use a different type of pie crust?
   Yes, you can use puff pastry or shortcrust pastry as an alternative to traditional pie crusts.
6. What other fruits can I use in these mini pies?
   Any fruit filling can be used, such as apple, blueberry, or mixed berries.
7. Can I use a different sweetener?
   You can experiment with alternative sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or stevia in place of sugar.
8. How can I make the pies more festive?
   Decorate the pies with holiday-themed cookie cutters or add colored sugar to the crust before baking.
9. Can I make these pies ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the mini pies in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. They can also be frozen and baked later.
10. Can I use a muffin tin for baking?
    Yes, a muffin tin is perfect for creating mini pies, as it helps keep their shape and allows for even baking.

Conclusion

Mini Cherry Pies are a fun and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of a traditional cherry pie in a smaller, more portable format. With a quick prep time and minimal ingredients, these little pies are perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to festive holiday celebrations. Whether you stick to the classic cherry filling or experiment with other fruits and toppings, this recipe offers endless possibilities for customization.

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