Delightful Cherry Pie Bites

This cherry pie bite recipe transforms classic cherry pie into adorable, handheld treats perfect for any occasion. The combination of flaky crescent roll dough and sweet cherry filling creates irresistible little desserts that disappear quickly from any table.

I created these bite sized treats for a neighborhood block party last summer, and they've become my signature dessert. Everyone asks for the recipe, amazed at how something so delicious could be so simple to make.

Ingredients

• Cherry pie filling: Provides sweet fruit flavor and beautiful color inside each bite
• Crescent roll dough: Creates a flaky, buttery pastry shell without any complicated dough making
• Powdered sugar: Forms the base of a simple sweet glaze that adds the perfect finishing touch
• Milk: Thins the glaze to the ideal consistency for drizzling over the warm pie bites

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Oven:

Heat your oven to exactly 375°F which ensures the crescent dough bakes properly without burning while still cooking through completely.

Prepare The Muffin Tin:

Coat your muffin tin thoroughly with nonstick cooking spray, making sure to cover all surfaces to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for easy removal of the finished pie bites.

Shape The Dough:

Carefully unroll each tube of crescent dough and separate into triangles. Place each triangle into a muffin cup with the wider end at the bottom and the point hanging over the edge. Press gently to form a cup shape while maintaining the integrity of the dough.

Add The Filling:

Spoon approximately 3 to 4 tablespoons of cherry pie filling into each dough cup. Be careful not to overfill as this can cause the filling to bubble over during baking and make removal difficult.

Fold The Dough:

Take the pointed end of each crescent triangle and fold it over the filling, tucking it in slightly. The goal is to partially cover the filling while still allowing some of the vibrant cherry color to show through.

Bake To Perfection:

Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 13 to 14 minutes. Watch for the dough to turn a beautiful golden brown color which indicates they are fully baked.

Prepare The Glaze:

While the pie bites are baking, whisk together powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until completely smooth. The consistency should be thick enough to coat a spoon but thin enough to drizzle.

Finish With Glaze:

Allow the pie bites to cool in the muffin tin for about 5 minutes, then carefully remove them to a wire rack. Once slightly cooled but still warm, drizzle the prepared glaze over each bite in a decorative pattern.

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My favorite part of making these cherry pie bites is watching people's faces light up when they take their first bite. The combination of tart cherries and sweet icing creates the perfect balance that reminds me of summer picnics with my grandmother who made the best cherry pies.

Storage And Freshness

These cherry pie bites stay fresh at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. The texture is best when they're freshly made, but you can quickly refresh them by warming in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes before serving. Avoid storing them stacked without parchment paper between layers as the glaze can cause them to stick together.

Make Ahead Options

You can prepare these pie bites up to 24 hours in advance for parties or gatherings. Complete all steps through baking, but wait to add the glaze until just before serving. Store the baked but unglazed bites in an airtight container, then reheat briefly in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes before glazing. This ensures that perfect balance of warm filling and fresh glaze that makes these treats so special.

Flavor Variations

While cherry is the classic filling, these versatile treats work beautifully with other fruit fillings too. Apple pie filling with a sprinkle of cinnamon creates a miniature apple pie experience. Blueberry filling offers a burst of summer flavor any time of year. For a tropical twist, try pineapple filling with coconut added to the glaze. During fall, pumpkin pie filling with pumpkin pie spice creates seasonal mini treats that disappear quickly at holiday gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep the dough from sticking to the muffin tin?

Use nonstick cooking spray or line the muffin tin with parchment liners to prevent sticking.

→ Can I substitute the cherry filling with another flavor?

Yes, you can use apple, blueberry, or any other fruit filling to suit your taste.

→ How do I ensure the bites cook evenly?

Preheat the oven to 375°F and ensure the dough is evenly folded over the filling. Rotate the muffin tin halfway through baking.

→ How should I store leftover pie bites?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make the glaze thicker or thinner?

Yes, adjust the consistency by adding less or more milk to the powdered sugar as desired.