The scent of warm cherry pie wafting through the kitchen is an instant mood-lifter, and these Cherry Pie Bites deliver just that — in a perfectly snackable size. With a golden, flaky crust hugging sweet, gooey cherry filling, they’re everything you love about cherry pie, simplified into a charming hand-held treat.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, packing a picnic, or simply craving something sweet, these mini pies hit all the right notes. They’re easy enough for beginner bakers but impressive enough to serve for holidays or special occasions. Plus, they bake up quickly, which makes them perfect for those last-minute dessert cravings.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 refrigerated pie crust (or homemade, rolled out)
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1/2 cup cherry pie filling
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1 egg (for egg wash)
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1 tablespoon water
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1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
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Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Roll out the pie crust on a lightly floured surface and cut into small circles or squares using a cookie cutter or glass.
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Place a small spoonful of cherry pie filling in the center of half of the cutouts.
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Top each with another piece of dough and gently seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
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Whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush each pie bite with the egg wash.
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Sprinkle with sugar if desired for a sweet, golden finish.
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Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
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Let cool slightly and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 110 kcal per bite | Servings: 8–10 mini pies
The Sweet Allure of Cherry Pie Bites
There’s something undeniably nostalgic about the scent of cherry pie baking in the oven — a warm, fruity aroma that feels like a hug from the past. But while full-sized cherry pies have their place on the dessert table, there’s a new favorite taking over kitchens everywhere: Cherry Pie Bites. These miniature versions of the classic dessert are fun, versatile, and incredibly satisfying. Perfectly golden on the outside and bursting with sweet cherry filling inside, they’re a delightful way to serve dessert without the fuss of slicing and plating.
Why Cherry Pie Bites Are the Ultimate Quick Dessert
One of the standout reasons Cherry Pie Bites are so beloved is how simple and fast they are to prepare. With just a few accessible ingredients and minimal prep time, these treats can go from kitchen to table in under 30 minutes. They’re ideal for impromptu gatherings, bake sales, or even weekday desserts when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen.
Compared to a traditional pie that requires careful rolling, crimping, and baking time, cherry pie bites are refreshingly low-maintenance. The individual portions also mean no messy slicing or awkward serving — just pick up a bite and enjoy.
Perfect Portions for Everyone
The beauty of these bite-sized pastries is that they cater to both kids and adults. Children love their compact size and sweet flavor, while adults appreciate the portion control and the touch of elegance they bring to any dessert spread. If you’ve ever struggled with uneven pie slices or wondered if one serving was just a little too generous, cherry pie bites solve that issue effortlessly.
These treats are also a lifesaver for parties and holiday events where multiple desserts are offered. Guests can enjoy a bite without committing to a full slice, making it easier to sample a little of everything on the table.
A Year-Round Favorite Dessert
While cherry pie might evoke memories of summer picnics or July 4th celebrations, cherry pie bites break that seasonal boundary. Thanks to readily available canned cherry pie filling, this dessert can be made any time of year. Whether it’s a cozy winter evening or a sunny spring brunch, these mini pies feel right at home.
Plus, their portability makes them great for school lunches, potlucks, picnics, and road trips. Since they don’t require refrigeration, they travel well and hold their shape without crumbling or melting.
Customization Options and Flavor Twists
Another reason cherry pie bites have gained such popularity is their versatility. While the classic version uses cherry pie filling and a flaky pastry crust, the possibilities for creativity are endless.
Want something a little tangier? Try mixing in raspberries with your cherries. Prefer a sweeter twist? Add a bit of almond extract or drizzle them with white chocolate. You can even experiment with different types of dough — puff pastry for a lighter texture, or even biscuit dough for a more rustic feel.
These bites are also a great canvas for decorations. Before baking, sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar for a warm spice flavor, or after baking, dust them with powdered sugar or glaze them with vanilla icing. You can even use cookie cutters to shape the dough into hearts, stars, or seasonal motifs for holidays and themed parties.
Great for Beginners and Kids in the Kitchen
If you’re looking to introduce your kids to baking, cherry pie bites are an excellent starter recipe. The steps are simple, the results are quick, and there’s something magical about spooning cherry filling onto dough and sealing it into a tiny pie. Kids love helping out with cookie cutters and brushing the egg wash, and they’ll be thrilled to enjoy the fruits of their labor when the oven timer dings.
For beginner bakers of all ages, this recipe offers confidence-boosting success with minimal risk of mistakes. Even if the sealing isn’t perfect or the crust browns unevenly, the flavor still shines through.
Presentation Tips to Impress Your Guests
Despite being simple to make, cherry pie bites can be dressed up beautifully for any occasion. Serve them on a wooden board with a dusting of powdered sugar and a bowl of whipped cream on the side for a rustic dessert table. Or arrange them on a tiered dessert stand with garnishes like fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a more elegant affair.
They also pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Serve with coffee or tea for an afternoon pick-me-up, or alongside champagne or dessert wine for a festive evening event. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if you’re serving them plated for a sit-down dinner.
### Healthier Swaps and Dietary Considerations
For those with dietary restrictions or looking to make a slightly healthier version, cherry pie bites are easy to adapt. You can use gluten-free pie crust, sugar-free cherry filling, or even create your own reduced-sugar filling using fresh or frozen cherries.
Vegan versions are also easy to achieve by using plant-based pie crust and omitting the egg wash, or replacing it with a brush of almond milk or maple syrup for a golden finish. With so many flexible options, nearly anyone can enjoy a version of this dessert.
Storing and Freezing Tips
Cherry pie bites are best enjoyed fresh, but they also store beautifully. Once cooled, you can keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days — simply reheat in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes to revive their flaky texture.
They also freeze well. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, pop them into a preheated oven straight from the freezer for 10–15 minutes and they’ll be just as delicious as day one.
A Dessert Worth Making Again and Again
The simplicity, versatility, and universal appeal of cherry pie bites make them a standout recipe to keep in your regular dessert rotation. Whether you’re entertaining guests, looking for an easy weekend bake, or just indulging a craving, these little pies are an absolute joy.
They’re impressive without being intimidating, sweet without being overly sugary, and elegant without being fussy. Cherry pie bites prove that sometimes, good things really do come in small packages.
Conclusion
In a world where elaborate desserts often steal the spotlight, Cherry Pie Bites remind us that the simplest treats can be the most delightful. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, they capture the essence of homemade baking and nostalgia in a neat little package. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a total beginner, this recipe promises satisfaction and smiles every single time.
Make them once, and they’ll become a go-to dessert that friends and family request again and again. From holidays to everyday snacking, cherry pie bites are a sweet success story waiting to be shared.