There’s something magical about cherry pie – the flaky crust, the sweet-tart cherries, and that irresistible glaze that ties it all together. But sometimes, a whole slice feels like too much, especially when you just want a little taste of dessert.
That’s where these bite-sized cherry pie delights come in. Inspired by the nostalgic memory of enjoying tiny squares of pie as a kid, this recipe takes that idea one step further by creating perfectly portioned mini pies right from the start.
The beauty of these treats is their simplicity. No fork or knife is needed, no messy slices to manage – just a warm, handheld bite of cherry goodness.
Whether you’re hosting friends, baking with your kids, or simply indulging a sweet craving, these little gems deliver all the flavors of a classic cherry pie in a more playful, fuss-free way.
Why You’ll Love These Cherry Pie Bites
One of the best things about this recipe is how quickly it comes together. In less than 30 minutes, you can go from pantry to plate, making it ideal for unexpected company or those last-minute dessert cravings that strike out of nowhere. You don’t need special baking skills or fancy equipment – just a muffin tin, a can of cherry filling, and crescent roll dough.
With only four simple ingredients, these bites prove that you don’t need a long grocery list to create something special. They’re also wonderfully versatile: perfect for bake sales, potluck tables, or even as an afternoon snack for the family. Kids adore their fun size, and adults appreciate the nostalgic nod to cherry pie without the commitment of a whole slice.
Ingredients
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 2 tubes (8 oz each) crescent roll dough
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Oven & Pan
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin with nonstick spray to ensure the bites release easily after baking.
Step 2: Shape the Dough
Unroll the crescent dough and place each triangle into a muffin cup, with the widest part at the bottom to form a little nest for the filling.
Step 3: Add the Filling
Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of cherry filling into each dough cup. Don’t overfill, as the cherries will expand slightly while baking.
Step 4: Fold & Bake
Fold the corners of the dough over the filling to cover it as best as possible. Bake for 13–14 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
While the bites bake, whisk together powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust with more milk for a thinner glaze if desired.
Step 6: Glaze & Serve
Let the bites cool for about 10 minutes, then drizzle the glaze over the tops. Serve warm and enjoy your mini cherry pie treats!
Choosing the Best Cherry Pie Filling
Canned cherry pie filling is a lifesaver here, and the good news is that most types work beautifully. If you enjoy that sweet-tart balance, opt for the classic red tart cherry version found in most stores. For something sweeter and more decadent, dark sweet cherry filling makes a great option. If you prefer a fruitier bite, premium brands that use whole cherries give these treats an extra burst of juiciness.
Of course, if you’re the type who enjoys making things from scratch, homemade cherry filling is a wonderful upgrade. Just be sure your filling has cooled completely and is thick enough to stay put inside the dough. A runny filling may cause leaks during baking, so thickness and texture are key for keeping these bites neat and tasty.
Fun Ingredient Swaps
Part of the charm of this recipe is how flexible it can be. If cherries aren’t your favorite, try swapping the filling with apple, blueberry, or strawberry pie filling. Each variation brings its own personality while keeping the flaky, handheld format intact.
You can also experiment with the dough. Crescent rolls are wonderfully light and buttery, but puff pastry creates an even flakier texture. Pie crust is another alternative if you prefer a more traditional bite. As for the glaze, it’s easy to adjust – swap the milk with cream for richness, or use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option. You could even skip the glaze entirely and dust the tops with powdered sugar for a simpler finish.
Common Baking Mistakes to Avoid
While these bites are simple, there are a couple of things to watch out for. The biggest mistake is overfilling – stick to about 1–2 tablespoons of filling per bite, otherwise it will spill over and create a sticky mess in your oven. Another common issue is not sealing the dough well enough. Pinching the edges firmly keeps the filling neatly contained during baking.
When it comes to the glaze, go slowly with the milk. Start with just a splash and whisk, adding more only if needed. A glaze that’s too thin will run right off the bites, while one that’s too thick won’t drizzle nicely. And remember, always let your cherry bites cool for about 10 minutes before glazing – otherwise, the topping will slide right off.
Serving Ideas
These little cherry pies are delicious all on their own, but pairing them with extras takes them to another level. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing, or add a swirl of whipped cream for something lighter but equally indulgent.
They also make a wonderful morning or afternoon snack alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. If you’re serving them at a gathering, consider adding a bowl of fresh berries on the side for a colorful touch that balances the sweetness. However you choose to serve them, these bites are guaranteed crowd-pleasers.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Fresh is always best, but these cherry pie bites will keep well for a couple of days. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days if your kitchen runs warm.
For make-ahead convenience, bake the bites but hold off on the glaze. Keep them unglazed in an airtight container, then whip up a fresh drizzle just before serving. If you’d like to reheat them, pop them into the microwave for 15 seconds or warm them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. The glaze may soften a bit, but the flavor will still be just as wonderful.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
- Cook Time: 13–14 minutes
- Total Time: 23–29 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Bite-Sized Cherry Pie Delights
Ingredients
Method
- Step 1: Prep the Oven & Pan. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin with nonstick spray to ensure the bites release easily after baking.
- Step 2: Shape the Dough. Unroll the crescent dough and place each triangle into a muffin cup, with the widest part at the bottom to form a little nest for the filling.
- Step 3: Add the Filling. Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of cherry filling into each dough cup. Don’t overfill, as the cherries will expand slightly while baking.
- Step 4: Fold & Bake. Fold the corners of the dough over the filling to cover it as best as possible. Bake for 13–14 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
- Step 5: Make the Glaze. While the bites bake, whisk together powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust with more milk for a thinner glaze if desired.
- Step 6: Glaze & Serve. Let the bites cool for about 10 minutes, then drizzle the glaze over the tops. Serve warm and enjoy your mini cherry pie treats!
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