Name: Cherry Pie Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade if you’re feeling fancy); 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (look for one with whole cherries and no gelatin); 1 egg (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon milk; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional, for topping); Powdered sugar or glaze (optional, for serving); Nonstick spray or butter (for greasing the muffin tin)

If you’re anything like me, there are days when a full-sized pie feels like a big ask—but the craving for that sweet, tart cherry goodness just won’t let up. Enter: Cherry Pie Bites. These mini desserts pack all the flavor and charm of a traditional cherry pie into irresistibly poppable, golden bites. They’re like pie’s fun little cousin who shows up to the party dressed to impress and disappears in one bite.

Perfect for picnics, potlucks, game nights, or a random Tuesday treat, these bite-sized wonders are simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Whether you make them with store-bought dough for convenience or go full homemade for that rustic touch, the result is always delightfully flaky crust hugging a juicy cherry center. And let’s be honest, anything you can eat in one bite without needing a plate or fork gets an automatic win in my book.

Why You’ll Love These Cherry Pie Bites

Mini size, max flavor – Don’t let the size fool you. These little guys are bursting with that sweet-and-tangy cherry pie flavor you know and love, wrapped in golden, flaky perfection.
No forks, no fuss – Cherry Pie Bites are made for snacking. No need for utensils or plates—just grab one (or five) and pop them in your mouth. Great for on-the-go cravings!
Kid and crowd approved – Whether you’re feeding a classroom, hosting a party, or treating your family, these get gobbled up in no time. They’re colorful, cute, and super approachable.
Versatile enough for any occasion – Want to dress them up for a brunch? Dust them with powdered sugar and plate them with mint. Looking for a cozy winter treat? Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They flex beautifully.
Beginner-friendly – Even if baking isn’t usually your jam, these are super doable. If you can operate a muffin tin and open a can of pie filling, you’re golden.
Totally customizable – Not into cherry? No problem! Sub in blueberry, apple, or even chocolate. You can tailor these to any flavor profile you want.
Perfect texture balance – The contrast between the flaky crust and the gooey cherry filling is pure magic. Add a sugary top crust or glaze for extra crunch and sweetness.
Great for freezing or make-ahead – These store like champs. Bake a batch, freeze them, and pop them in the oven when you need a quick dessert fix.
Portion-controlled indulgence – Trying to be mindful of your sweets? These give you all the pie joy in a little nibble, so you can have your treat without going overboard.
They’re just plain adorable – I mean seriously… miniature pies. Enough said.

Preparation Time and Yield

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 24 cherry pie bites

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 120
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 9g

Ingredients for Cherry Pie Bites

2 refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade if you’re feeling fancy)
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (look for one with whole cherries and no gelatin)
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon milk
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional, for topping)
Powdered sugar or glaze (optional, for serving)
Nonstick spray or butter (for greasing the muffin tin)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cherry Pie Bites

Step 1: Preheat and prep your gear
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin with nonstick spray or butter to make sure those golden bites slide out easily after baking.

Step 2: Roll out the pie crust
Unroll your pie crusts onto a lightly floured surface. Use a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass (about 2.5 to 3 inches wide) to cut out circles. You’ll need about 24 to fill a standard mini muffin tin.

Step 3: Press into muffin cups
Gently press each circle into the muffin tin cavities. Press the dough down and up the sides, forming a mini pie shell. Don’t worry if the edges aren’t perfect—rustic is charming!

Step 4: Fill with cherries
Spoon 1–2 cherries with a bit of filling into each pie shell. Don’t overfill—you want just enough to give a juicy bite without overflowing during baking.

Step 5: Add a decorative top (optional)
If you want to add a top crust, use extra dough to create small cutouts, lattice pieces, or even stars to place on top of the filling. It’s not necessary, but it does make them extra cute.

Step 6: Brush with egg wash
Whisk together the egg and milk, then brush it over the crust edges and any decorative tops. This helps give your bites that golden, shiny finish. Sprinkle with sugar if you like a crunchy top.

Step 7: Bake to golden perfection
Place your muffin tin in the oven and bake for 13–15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly.

Step 8: Cool and remove from the tin
Let the bites cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, gently use a knife to loosen and lift them out onto a cooling rack. Be careful—filling can be hot!

Step 9: Finish and serve
Once cool, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze for a pretty finish. Serve warm or at room temp, and watch them disappear.

Ingredient Background

Cherries are the star of the show here, and they’re not just a pretty face in a pie filling. Originating from Europe and western Asia, cherries have been cultivated for thousands of years. Sweet cherries like Bing are often eaten fresh, while tart varieties like Montmorency are prized in baked goods for their tangy bite and ability to hold up during cooking. Tart cherries are what you’ll typically find in canned pie fillings, lending that classic balance of sweetness and acidity to desserts like our Cherry Pie Bites.

Pie crust, the trusty vessel that carries all that cherry goodness, has humble roots in ancient Egypt and Rome. The earliest versions were more of a tough pastry used to preserve the contents inside. Thankfully, over centuries of culinary experimentation, it evolved into the flaky, buttery shell we love today. Store-bought crusts have made this once time-intensive process way more accessible, but homemade versions, with a blend of cold butter and flour, add a rich, tender crumb that’s well worth the extra effort when you have the time.

And then there’s the egg wash—a simple mixture of egg and milk that transforms an ordinary crust into a shiny, golden, bakery-worthy creation. It’s one of those little touches that elevates your bake from good to “please tell me you made more.” Combine it with a sprinkle of sugar, and your mini pies will have that sweet sparkle and satisfying crunch you didn’t even know you needed.

Technique Tips for Cherry Pie Bites

Getting that perfect mini pie bite is all about attention to the little details, especially when working on a smaller scale. First, let’s talk about the crust. If you’re using store-bought dough, let it come to room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before unrolling. This softens it just enough to prevent cracking, but keeps it cool enough to stay workable. For a homemade crust, always use chilled butter and avoid overworking the dough. Over-mixing activates the gluten, which leads to tough rather than tender pastry.

When cutting out your dough circles, aim for consistent sizing. A uniform round helps each pie bake evenly and look neat in the pan. Once you’ve pressed the dough into the muffin tin, don’t be afraid to patch up any thin spots with dough scraps. These mini pies are more forgiving than they seem, and a well-fitted base means no cherry escapees during baking.

As for filling, moderation is key. It’s tempting to pack in extra cherries, but this leads to overflow and soggy bottoms—nobody wants a soggy bottom, right? One or two cherries per bite is perfect. If you’re worried about runny filling, a tiny sprinkle of cornstarch at the base can absorb excess moisture. And finally, don’t skip the resting period after baking. Letting them cool in the pan helps the crust set and makes removal much easier, reducing the risk of tearing those delicate golden shells.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

While these bites are adorable on their own, you can get creative with presentation to make them truly showstopping. Try serving them on a tiered dessert tray alongside mini lemon tarts and chocolate cups for a colorful dessert spread that screams party vibes. Add edible flowers or fresh mint leaves for a pop of elegance and color—perfect for bridal showers, garden parties, or spring-themed events.

For a cozy winter presentation, warm your cherry pie bites slightly and arrange them in a rustic wooden bowl lined with a gingham cloth. Pair them with mugs of hot cocoa or mulled cider, and you’ve got the ultimate fireside treat. You can even dust the tops with cinnamon-sugar or nutmeg for a cozy twist.

Want to go bold? Stack them like a tower on a cake stand and drizzle with warm vanilla glaze. Top the whole thing with whipped cream or ice cream served in a small bowl on the side, letting guests customize their mini pie experience. You could also offer dipping sauces like melted chocolate or sweetened cream cheese for an interactive dessert bar.

Freezing and Storing Cherry Pie Bites

Storing these mini treats is a breeze, which makes them ideal for both planning ahead and savoring leftovers. If you plan to enjoy them over a few days, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. After that, move them to the fridge to keep the filling fresh and avoid sogginess. A quick reheat in a toaster oven or microwave will restore that warm, just-baked vibe.

For longer storage, freezing is your best bet. Once cooled completely, place the cherry pie bites on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, about an hour. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay delicious for up to two months.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat directly from frozen at 325°F for 10–12 minutes. This revives the crust and brings the filling back to life. Avoid microwaving from frozen if you want to preserve that crispy edge. You can also freeze them unbaked, then pop them straight into the oven from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the bake time and watch for that golden-brown glow.

Healthier Twist Ideas

If you’re trying to sneak in a healthier edge, there are a few clever swaps that still keep the cherry pie spirit alive. Start with the crust. Instead of traditional pie dough, try using phyllo pastry or whole wheat pie crust. Both are lighter options, and phyllo especially brings a flaky texture with far less fat and fewer calories. Just be gentle when working with it—it’s delicate but totally worth it.

For the filling, skip the canned stuff and go for a homemade cherry compote. Use fresh or frozen cherries, a touch of honey or maple syrup instead of sugar, and a squeeze of lemon for brightness. You control the sweetness and avoid the added preservatives often found in store-bought fillings. You can even sneak in some chia seeds to thicken the mixture naturally and add fiber.

Want a lower sugar version? Skip the powdered sugar topping and serve these bites with a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with vanilla instead of whipped cream. You’ll add protein and creaminess without the sugar crash. Even better, these tweaks don’t compromise the joy of the treat—they just give you a slightly lighter way to indulge.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Cherry Pie Bites are the Swiss army knife of desserts when it comes to serving at events. For casual gatherings like BBQs or game nights, they’re a no-brainer. Set them out on a large platter next to napkins and watch them disappear. They travel well, require no utensils, and don’t melt in the sun like frosted cupcakes or creamy desserts might.

Planning a brunch or holiday spread? Pair them with mini quiches, fresh fruit, and sparkling drinks for a festive display. You can coordinate their presentation with your event colors by using themed cupcake liners or tiny flags for a cute personal touch. Add a pie server and a sign that says “Cherry Pie Bites” so guests know exactly what they’re grabbing.

For a more formal celebration—think weddings, anniversaries, or banquets—consider making a dessert sampler plate. Add one cherry pie bite alongside a chocolate truffle and a lemon bar, and suddenly you’ve got a gourmet mini-dessert tasting. Their size and shape make them incredibly flexible, fitting into just about any dessert theme with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make cherry pie bites ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! You can make them a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. If you want to prep even earlier, freeze them and reheat just before serving.

2. What if I don’t have a mini muffin tin?

You can use a regular muffin tin and make slightly larger pie bites. Just adjust the size of your dough rounds and add a little more filling.

3. Can I use homemade cherry filling?

Definitely. Homemade filling made from fresh or frozen cherries gives you more control over sweetness and texture, and it’s a great way to make the recipe even more special.

4. Can I use a different fruit?

Yes! Try blueberry, apple, peach, or even raspberry. Most canned or homemade fruit fillings will work just fine in this recipe.

5. How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

Use just a small amount of filling per bite and avoid overfilling. You can also sprinkle a little cornstarch or ground almonds at the base to absorb extra moisture.

6. Can these be made gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free pie crust or pastry dough to make them suitable for gluten-sensitive guests. Just double-check your pie filling for any hidden gluten ingredients.

7. Do I need to blind bake the crusts first?

Nope! Because these are mini and bake quickly, there’s no need to blind bake. Just fill and bake in one go.

8. How do I get the tops golden and shiny?

An egg wash made from a beaten egg and a little milk brushed over the crust will give that beautiful golden sheen. Sprinkle a bit of sugar on top for added sparkle and texture.

9. What kind of cherries are best for pie filling?

Tart cherries like Montmorency are ideal because they balance the sweetness of the filling and hold their shape well when baked.

10. Can I add other flavors to the filling?

Sure! Try a splash of vanilla extract, almond extract, or even a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to give the filling a personalized twist.

Conclusion

There’s something downright magical about cherry pie, and when you shrink it down into bite-sized bliss, you get a dessert that’s not only delicious but also totally charming. These Cherry Pie Bites hit all the sweet spots—flaky, juicy, sweet, and tangy—all wrapped up in a package you can devour in a single bite. Whether you’re baking for a party, looking for a fun way to spend a rainy afternoon, or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth with minimal effort, these little treats deliver every time.

They’re endlessly flexible, super easy to make, and oh-so-satisfying. You can stick with the classic version or tweak the crust, filling, and toppings to suit your own style. And no matter how you serve them—warm out of the oven, dusted with sugar, or plated with a scoop of ice cream—they never fail to impress.

So the next time you’re dreaming of pie but don’t want to commit to a full one, whip up a batch of these Cherry Pie Bites. They bring all the flavor and fun without the fuss. Trust me, once you make them, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

Cherry Pie Bites

Author: Luna
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 24 cherry pie bites 1x

Print Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

2 refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade if you’re feeling fancy)
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (look for one with whole cherries and no gelatin)
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon milk
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional, for topping)
Powdered sugar or glaze (optional, for serving)
Nonstick spray or butter (for greasing the muffin tin)

Instructions