Name: Easy Cherry Pie Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 29 min
Ingredients: 21 ounces cherry pie filling; 2 tubes crescent roll dough (8 ounces each); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1-2 tablespoons milk (for icing)

Introduction to Easy Cherry Pie Bites

If you're a young professional juggling work, social life, and maybe even a side hustle, you know how important it is to find quick and satisfying meals. That's where easy cherry pie bites step in as a game changer! These delightful little treats combine simplicity with deliciousness, making them perfect for both busy weekday evenings and spontaneous get-togethers with friends.

Imagine this: You have friends coming over, and you want to impress them with a homemade dessert, but you’re short on time and energy. You can whip up these cherry pie bites in just 29 minutes! Using only a few ingredients—like cherry pie filling and crescent roll dough—you create a dessert that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Plus, with over 84 calories per bite, they offer a guilt-free treat for that sweet craving without throwing off your meal prep for the week. In fact, according to a recent study, simple desserts can boost your mood and serve as a reminder to indulge in life’s little pleasures amid a hectic schedule. So grab your friends, indulge in these easy cherry pie bites, and turn a casual evening into a memorable one!

Be sure to check out the full recipe below to get started.

Ingredients for Easy Cherry Pie Bites

Creating your own easy cherry pie bites has never been simpler! The best part? You probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry. Here's what you'll need:

Cherry Pie Filling: A 21-ounce can of cherry pie filling is the star of the show. Look for one with whole cherries, as they'll provide a delightful texture and flavor.
Crescent Roll Dough: Two 8-ounce tubes of crescent roll dough form the flaky crust. This shortcut ingredient really cuts down on prep time while ensuring that delicious, buttery taste.
Powdered Sugar: For the sweet drizzle, using 1 cup of powdered sugar adds that classic pie sweetness.
Milk: Just 1-2 tablespoons of milk helps achieve the perfect icing consistency for drizzling. You can opt for regular milk or a plant-based alternative.

These ingredients come together to make a delightful treat that's sure to impress! And if you’re curious about more dessert ideas, check out this blog on quick desserts to inspire your next cooking adventure!

Step-by-step Preparation of Easy Cherry Pie Bites

Creating delicious easy cherry pie bites is a fantastic way to satisfy your sweet tooth with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to make these delightful treats!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start, it’s essential to have all your ingredients ready. For this recipe, you’ll need:

21-ounce can of cherry pie filling
2 (8-ounce) tubes of crescent roll dough
1 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons of milk

Having everything prepped upfront will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin

The first step in making your easy cherry pie bites is to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, grab a regular muffin tin and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. This will help prevent your bites from sticking and will ensure they come out beautifully.

Unroll the Crescent Roll Dough

Now comes the fun part! Open your tubes of crescent roll dough and unroll the individual pieces. Lay them in the muffin tin with the widest end placed at the bottom. This will help create a pocket for all that delicious cherry filling. You’ll want to ensure they fit snugly in each cup.

Fill the Dough with Cherry Pie Filling

Generously scoop some cherry pie filling into each crescent roll piece—aim for about 3 to 4 heaping tablespoons! Don't worry if a little filling oozes out; that just means more flavor during baking.

Fold the Dough and Shape the Bites

With the filling in place, carefully fold the corners of the dough over the filling. You can pull in three corners to create a sort of pouch. The goal is to seal the cherries inside while still leaving a beautiful shape. If any cherries peek out, that’s perfectly fine!

Bake the Bites to Perfection

Place the muffin tin into your preheated oven and bake for 13-14 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and flaky. The delightful scent of cherries and baked pastry will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

Prepare the Icing to Drizzle

While your easy cherry pie bites are baking, it’s time to whip up a quick icing. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 1-2 tablespoons of milk until smooth. Adjust the milk quantity until you reach your desired drizzling consistency. This icing will add a sweet finishing touch!

After your bites have baked, drizzle the icing over the warm treats and enjoy the simple pleasure of freshly baked easy cherry pie bites. Perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in, these bites are sure to become a favorite! For more delightful desserts, check out Taste of Home for inspiration.

Variations on Easy Cherry Pie Bites

Cherry Almond Pie Bites

For a delightful twist on your easy cherry pie bites, add a splash of almond extract to your cherry filling. This variation enhances the cherry flavor with a nutty undertone, offering a unique tasting experience that’s sure to impress your friends. Top with sliced almonds after drizzling the icing for extra crunch and flavor. Not only do they taste divine, but they also look beautiful!

Chocolate Cherry Pie Bites

If you’re a chocolate lover, consider mixing some chocolate chips into the cherry pie filling before assembling your bites. The rich taste of chocolate pairs perfectly with cherries, creating a decadent dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth. To elevate the presentation, dust with cocoa powder or drizzle melted chocolate on top. These chocolate cherry pie bites are a guaranteed hit at any gathering!

Feel free to explore these variations and customize your easy cherry pie bites for any occasion.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Cherry Pie Bites

Ensuring the Dough is Sealed Properly

To make your easy cherry pie bites a success, sealing the dough is crucial. Take your time to fold in all the corners tightly, ensuring the filling stays inside during baking. If you notice any openings, a dab of water can help seal them. This will prevent the cherry filling from seeping out and create a delightful burst of flavor with every bite.

Using Fresh Cherries Instead of Canned Filling

For a fresher and more vibrant taste, consider using fresh cherries instead of canned filling. Simply pit and slice the cherries, then mix them with a bit of sugar for sweetness. This adds a homemade touch to your easy cherry pie bites and elevates the dessert. Plus, fresh ingredients often enhance both the flavor and nutritional value of your treats!

Try this quick recipe for the best cherry pie bites, and you'll never look at store-bought fillings the same way!

Serving Suggestions for Easy Cherry Pie Bites

Pairing with Vanilla Ice Cream

To elevate your easy cherry pie bites, consider serving them warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The cold, rich flavor of the ice cream complements the sweet, tart cherries and soft pastry, creating a delightful contrast that will have your taste buds dancing.

Serving at Gatherings and Parties

These easy cherry pie bites are perfect for gatherings! Their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for sharing, whether at a cozy dinner party or a lively holiday celebration. Just place them on a colorful platter and watch your friends and family swoon! For added flair, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top or garnish with fresh mint leaves. Why not set out some side sauces, like chocolate or caramel, for a fun dipping experience? Your guests will be raving about these treats long after the last bite!

Time Breakdown for Easy Cherry Pie Bites

Preparation time
Getting ready for these easy cherry pie bites takes just about 15 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients and preheating the oven. Quick, right?

Cooking time
Once everything’s prepped, you’ll bake these delightful treats for just 14 minutes. Ideal for those busy weeknights!

Total time
In under 30 minutes, you can have this delicious dessert ready to serve! Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day. Enjoy these little bites of joy!

For more tips on timing in the kitchen, check out this helpful guide.

Nutritional Facts for Easy Cherry Pie Bites

When you indulge in easy cherry pie bites, it’s helpful to understand the nutritional value you’re enjoying. Here’s a quick look at what each serving contains:

Calories per serving

Each easy cherry pie bite contains approximately 84 calories, making them a delightful yet manageable treat.

Sugar content

These bites feature around 8 grams of sugar, largely coming from the cherry pie filling, adding a sweet punch to your dessert.

Protein content

Each serving offers less than 1 gram of protein, so you may want to enjoy these bites alongside a protein-rich snack if you're looking to balance your diet.

By keeping these nutritional facts in mind, you can enjoy your cherry pie bites while still being mindful of your overall dietary goals! For more information on making healthier dessert choices, check out resources from the American Heart Association or the USDA's MyPlate.

Enjoy your baking adventure and happy snacking!

FAQs about Easy Cherry Pie Bites

Can I make these bites in advance?

Absolutely! Easy cherry pie bites can be made a few hours ahead of time. Simply prepare them, but wait to bake until you're ready to serve. If you want to store them overnight, assemble the bites and place them in the refrigerator. Just remember to pop them in the oven fresh before serving for that warm, gooey goodness everyone loves.

What can I use instead of crescent roll dough?

If you’re looking for alternatives to crescent roll dough, you have several options! Puff pastry works wonderfully, giving a flaky texture. For a gluten-free version, try using gluten-free pie crusts. You could also consider making a simple pie crust from scratch using flour, butter, and water for a more classic touch.

How do I store leftover cherry pie bites?

To keep those tasty bites fresh, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container. They can last up to three days in the fridge. Reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes. This way, they’ll taste just as delightful as when they were first made!

For more baking tips and cherry-themed recipes, check out sites like King Arthur Baking for inspiration.

Conclusion on Easy Cherry Pie Bites

These easy cherry pie bites are the perfect treat for any occasion! With their flaky crust and sweet cherry filling, they’re sure to impress family and friends. Don’t forget to drizzle on the icing for a little extra sweetness. Try them today and enjoy a delightful dessert experience!