Irresistible Mini Cherry Cream Cheese Pies!

Irresistible Mini Cherry Cream Cheese Pies! 🍒🥧

These Mini Cherry Cream Cheese Pies are a delightful combination of flaky pie crusts, creamy cheesecake-like filling, and sweet-tart cherry topping. Perfectly bite-sized, these pies are ideal for parties, potlucks, or when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to commit to a full-sized dessert. With their vibrant cherry topping and rich cream cheese filling, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious.

Let’s dive into how to make these adorable and indulgent mini pies step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfectly Portioned : Bite-sized treats that are easy to share or enjoy guilt-free.
2. Sweet & Tangy Flavor : The combination of creamy cheesecake filling and juicy cherries is irresistible.
3. Quick & Easy : Minimal prep time with store-bought pie crusts for convenience.
4. Customizable : Swap cherries for other fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or peaches.

Ingredients

(Makes 12 mini pies)

For the Pies:

• 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts per package )
• 1 cup cream cheese , softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups fresh or canned cherries , chopped (reserve juice if using canned cherries )
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening cherry topping )
• 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening cherry topping )

For Garnish (Optional):

• Powdered sugar , for dusting
• Whipped cream , for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
2. Grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin or line it with cupcake liners for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crusts

1. Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts on a lightly floured surface.
2. Use a round cookie cutter or glass slightly larger than the muffin tin cups to cut out 12 circles.
3. Press each circle gently into the muffin tin cups, shaping them to fit snugly. Prick the bottoms with a fork to prevent puffing during baking.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. Spoon an equal amount of the cream cheese mixture into each pie crust, spreading it evenly to create a smooth layer.

Step 4: Prepare the Cherry Topping

1. If using fresh cherries, chop them into small pieces. If using canned cherries, drain and reserve the juice.
2. To thicken the cherry topping (optional): In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, 2–3 tablespoons of reserved cherry juice (or water), and cornstarch. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 5: Assemble the Pies

1. Spoon the cherry topping evenly over the cream cheese layer in each pie crust.

Step 6: Bake

1. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes , or until the crusts are golden brown and the filling is set.
2. Remove from the oven and let the pies cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Serve

1. Dust the cooled pies with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
2. Serve as-is or with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh or Frozen Cherries : If fresh cherries aren’t in season, frozen cherries work just as well—just thaw and drain them before use.
2. Adjust Sweetness : Taste the cherry topping before assembling. Add a teaspoon of sugar if the cherries need more sweetness.
3. Make Ahead : Assemble the pies ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
4. Experiment with Flavors : Swap cherries for other fruits like raspberries, blackberries, or diced apples.
5. Add a Citrus Zest : Stir a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest into the cream cheese filling for a bright, citrusy twist.

Perfect Pairings

These Mini Cherry Cream Cheese Pies pair beautifully with:

• Coffee or Tea : Serve with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
• Ice Cream : Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent dessert.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water or champagne for a festive touch.

Nutritional Information (Per Mini Pie, Approx.)

• Calories : ~180 kcal
• Protein : ~2g
• Carbohydrates : ~20g
• Fat : ~10g
• Fiber : ~1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

These Mini Cherry Cream Cheese Pies are a fun, bite-sized dessert that’s sure to impress. With their buttery crust, creamy filling, and sweet-tart cherry topping, they’re a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something sweet, these pies are a guaranteed hit.