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Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your bite-sized pies bake evenly and develop a beautiful golden crust.
2. Prepare the Cherry Filling
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Gently toss the ingredients together until the cherries are well coated. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the juices to release.
3. Roll Out the Pie Crust
If using refrigerated pie crusts, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any creases. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass (about 3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles of dough. You’ll need two circles for each mini pie.
4. Assemble the Mini Pies
Place half of the dough circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon about a tablespoon of the cherry filling into the center of each circle, leaving a small border around the edges. Top each filled circle with another dough circle and gently press the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for an added decorative touch.
5. Brush with Egg Wash
Using a pastry brush, apply the beaten egg on top of each pie to give them a beautiful golden color when baked. This step also helps seal the edges of the pie.
6. Cut Vents
To allow steam to escape during baking, use a sharp knife to cut a few small slits in the top of each mini pie.
7. Bake the Pies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the pies are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-bake.
8. Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cherry pies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
Why You’ll Love Bite-Sized Cherry Pies
- Perfectly Portable: These mini pies are easy to transport, making them an ideal dessert for gatherings, picnics, or potlucks. Their bite-sized nature means you can enjoy a taste without overindulging.
- Versatile Filling: While cherry is a classic choice, you can easily adapt this recipe to include other fruits like blueberries, apples, or mixed berries. The method remains the same, allowing you to customize these little treats to your liking.
- Fun for All Ages: Making bite-sized cherry pies can be a fun activity to involve the whole family. Kids will love helping to fill and seal the pies, and everyone will enjoy the delicious results.
- Impressive Presentation: These mini pies look adorable on any dessert table and are sure to be a hit with guests. Their golden crust and vibrant cherry filling make for an eye-catching treat.
Conclusion
Bite-Sized Cherry Pies are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that captures the classic flavors of cherry pie in a fun, portable format. With a flaky crust and a sweet-tart cherry filling, these little treats are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a sweet snack, these mini pies are sure to satisfy. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of creating these delicious bite-sized delights!
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