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These Mini Cherry Pies are the kind of dessert that bring joy with every bite—cute, simple, and bursting with sweet cherry flavor. Made with just three ingredients and baked in a muffin tin, they’re the perfect solution when you want something homemade without the fuss. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a holiday dessert table, or just need a fun baking project with the kids, these mini pies deliver big flavor in a little package.
I started making these when I needed a last-minute dessert for a baby shower. I didn’t have time to bake a full pie, but I had pie crusts and cherry filling on hand. They were such a hit that now I make them for just about every celebration—from Valentine's Day to Sunday dinner dessert.
Ingredient Breakdown and Why They Work
- Refrigerated Pie Crusts (2): These save so much time without sacrificing that classic flaky texture. You’ll get enough dough to line all 12 muffin cups.
- Cherry Pie Filling (1 can, 21 oz): Sweet, vibrant, and already prepped—cherry filling gives these pies their signature flavor and juicy center.
- Whipped Cream (for topping): Optional, but adds a creamy finish that complements the tart cherries.
You can also swap in apple, blueberry, or peach filling depending on the season or what’s in your pantry. I love how versatile this base recipe is.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Mini Cherry Pies
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- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a standard 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray to keep the crusts from sticking.
- Step 2: Cut the Dough
- Roll out one pie crust on a floured surface. Use a 3½-inch round cutter (or the rim of a drinking glass) to cut circles. Gently press each circle into the muffin cups, pressing the dough up along the sides. Repeat with the second crust until all 12 cups are lined.
- Step 3: Fill with Cherry Pie Filling
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of cherry pie filling into each mini crust. Try to include a couple of cherries in each one for a perfect bite.
- Step 4: Bake Until Golden
- Bake the mini pies for 25–30 minutes, or until the crusts are lightly golden and crisp. Keep an eye on the edges so they don’t overbrown.
- Step 5: Cool Before Removing
- Let the pies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to remove them. Run a butter knife gently around the edge of each pie, then lift them out carefully.
- Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Top each mini pie with a swirl of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. They’re best served slightly warm or at room temperature.
When I make these with my kids, they love cutting out the dough circles and spooning in the filling. It’s a fun, hands-on recipe that’s simple enough for them to help from start to finish—and there’s always a sense of pride when they serve the pies themselves.
Variations & Add-Ons to Try
- Add a Lattice Top: Use leftover dough strips to create a pretty lattice over each pie before baking
- Try Different Fillings: Apple, peach, or blueberry pie filling all work beautifully
- Add Spices: Sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg over the filling for a warm twist
- Make a Glaze: Mix powdered sugar and milk for a simple drizzle after baking
I’ve even made these with a cream cheese layer under the filling for a cheesecake-pie hybrid. The possibilities are endless once you’ve got the crust and filling combo down.
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These Mini Cherry Pies are small but mighty—sweet, satisfying, and so much fun to make and share. Whether you serve them at a baby shower, a backyard BBQ, or as a weeknight treat, they’re sure to bring smiles to the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use homemade pie dough? Absolutely. Store-bought is convenient, but homemade dough adds a rustic, buttery flavor.
- Can I freeze these mini pies? Yes! Freeze them after baking and cooling. Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.
- What other fillings work well? Apple, blueberry, peach, or even pumpkin during the holidays are great alternatives.
- Do I have to grease the muffin tin? Yes—lightly spraying ensures easy removal and prevents sticking, especially if any filling bubbles over.