These Easy Cherry Pie Bites pack all the fruity goodness of cherry pie into little hand-held treats! With a flaky crust and sweet cherry filling, they are perfect for sharing (or not!).
Making them is a breeze! I like to whip these up when I need a quick dessert or snack. Plus, they make my kitchen smell delightful, like a cherry orchard on a sunny day! 🍒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll Dough: This is the star of the show! It gives your bites a flaky and buttery texture. If you can’t find crescent roll dough, you can use puff pastry instead for a lighter, airier result.
Cherry Pie Filling: Canned cherry pie filling is super convenient. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could make your own filling with fresh or frozen cherries, sugar, and a bit of cornstarch to thicken it up.
Egg Wash: The beaten egg gives your bites a beautiful golden color. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can use milk or a similar non-dairy milk for brushing.
Vanilla Extract: This is optional, but it really boosts the flavor of your cherry filling. You could also experiment with almond extract for a different twist!
How Do You Get the Perfectly Golden Finish?
Getting that lovely golden finish on your cherry pie bites is all about the egg wash and baking time. Here’s how:
- Make sure to brush the tops of each bite with the beaten egg thoroughly for an even color.
- Watch the baking time closely. They should be golden brown but not overcooked. The general rule is 12-15 minutes, so start checking around the 12-minute mark.
- Let them cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set a bit; they’ll be easier to handle!
Following these tips will help you make perfect cherry pie bites every time!
How to Make Easy Cherry Pie Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, to enhance filling flavor)
For the Optional Powdered Sugar Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time, plus around 12-15 minutes of baking time. The total time is about 25 minutes, perfect for a quick and delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup super easy!
2. Unroll the Dough:
Unroll that delicious refrigerated crescent roll dough on a clean surface and separate it into triangles along the perforated lines. It should come apart easily, but if it sticks a little, a gentle pull will do the trick.
3. Fill the Dough:
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of cherry pie filling onto the wide end of each dough triangle. If you like, you can mix in the vanilla extract with the cherry filling beforehand for an extra flavor boost!
4. Roll Them Up:
Now it’s time to roll! Starting at the wide end where the filling is, gently roll up each triangle toward the narrow end, making sure to completely enclose the cherry filling. Place them seam side down on your prepared baking sheet so they don’t unravel.
5. Brush and Sprinkle:
Brush the tops of each rolled bite with the beaten egg. This will give them that beautiful golden-brown finish. If you want an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle a little granulated sugar over the top!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them, and you’ll know they’re done when they look delightful!
7. Prepare Optional Glaze:
If you’d like to make the optional powdered sugar glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until it’s smooth and creamy. Set it aside until the pie bites are done baking.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the cherry pie bites from the oven and let them cool for about 5-10 minutes. This will help them set a bit. If you’re using the glaze, drizzle it over the warm bites now, or serve them plain for a sweeter treat!
9. Enjoy!
These cherry pie bites are best served warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your tasty creations, and don’t forget to share (if you want to)! They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual snacking to impressing friends at a gathering.
FAQ for Easy Cherry Pie Bites Recipe
Can I Use Different Fruit Fillings?
Absolutely! You can substitute cherry pie filling with other varieties like blueberry, apple, or even mixed berries. Just keep in mind that different fruits may alter the sweetness and flavor profile slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just note that the crust may lose some of its crispiness when stored in the fridge.
Can I Freeze Cherry Pie Bites?
Yes, these bites can be frozen! After baking, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Them?
The best way to reheat your cherry pie bites is in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C). This will help maintain the flaky texture. You can also use a microwave, but be aware it may soften the crust.
