Easy Mini Cherry Pies with Streusel Topping: A Delicious Dessert Recipe
Forget the fuss of slicing! This quick and easy recipe for Mini Cherry Pies with Streusel lets you serve up individual portions of pure dessert bliss. The best part? You can use fresh or frozen cherries!
Our trusty 12-cup muffin pan has proven its versatility time and again, yielding top-rated treats that extend far beyond muffins. From breakfast winners like Granola Cups and Egg Bites to satisfying snacks such as Pizza Pockets and Lasagna Cups, the possibilities are endless. Recently, I’ve been exploring the world of mini pies, creating mini pecan pies for winter celebrations and mini apple pies to embrace the flavors of fall. Now, summer takes center stage with these delightful Mini Cherry Pies with Streusel!
Can You Use Frozen Cherries for Mini Cherry Pies?
Absolutely! I’ve tested this mini cherry pie recipe with both fresh and frozen cherries, and both yielded perfectly delicious results. Each bite is bursting with that classic cherry flavor we all crave. Did you know there are over 1,000 varieties of cherries grown in the U.S. alone? This gives you a wide range of flavor profiles to choose from, whether you prefer a slightly tart or super sweet cherry pie experience.
The bottom line is simple: Grab whatever cherries look best to you! Check the freezer aisle, browse the produce section, or visit your local farmer’s market for the perfect cherry selection. Don’t overthink it; any cherries will work wonders in these mini pies.
Cooking the cherries with sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and cornstarch transforms them into a thick, jammy cherry pie filling. This filling is the perfect consistency for piling into the mini pie crusts. And speaking of crusts…
For this recipe, we’re taking a time-saving shortcut with store-bought pie crust. However, if you have a few extra minutes and want to elevate your pie game, check out my recipe for the best homemade buttery flaky pie crust. A homemade crust really takes these mini pies to the next level!
Tips for Removing Mini Pies from a Muffin Tin
Getting those perfectly formed mini cherry pies out of the muffin pan can sometimes be tricky. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are two essential tips for effortlessly releasing your mini pies:
- Cool Completely: Let the pies cool completely in the muffin tin before attempting to remove them. This allows the crust to naturally pull away from the sides of the pan, making for easy removal. Additionally, the jammy cherry filling will thicken and set as it cools, further aiding the release.
- Knife Around the Edges: Gently run a thin knife around the edges of each mini pie to release any stuck areas. This helps to separate the crust from the pan, encouraging the pies to pop out with ease. Be careful not to scratch your muffin tin!
By following these two simple steps, you’ll be able to release your mini cherry pies from the muffin tin perfectly every time. No more broken crusts or messy fillings!
How to Store Your Baked Mini Cherry Pies
Knowing how to properly store your baked goods is essential for maintaining their quality and freshness. For these mini cherry pies, you have a couple of options:
Room Temperature: Fruit pies, including these cherry delights, can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh, cover them loosely with foil or plastic wrap. This prevents them from drying out while still allowing some air circulation.
Refrigeration: If you want to store your pies for longer than 2 days, refrigeration is the way to go. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can serve them cold or warm them up slightly in the oven or microwave.
Regardless of which storage method you choose, make sure to protect the pies from drying out. Covering them loosely or storing them in an airtight container will help to maintain their delicious flavor and texture.
Ready to create your own batch of mini cherry pie masterpieces? Get ready for the ultimate combination of jammy cherry pie filling, buttery pie crust, and a sweet brown sugar streusel topping! This trifecta of deliciousness guarantees a winning dessert experience that will leave everyone wanting more.
These Mini Cherry Pies with Streusel are not just a dessert; they’re an experience. The aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake, the anticipation of that first bite, and the pure joy of sharing these little treats with loved ones – it’s all part of the magic. These pies are perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or simply as a special treat to brighten up your day.
The recipe below provides detailed instructions on how to create these delightful mini pies from start to finish. From preparing the luscious cherry filling to crafting the perfect streusel topping, you’ll find everything you need to achieve baking success. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a baking adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your friends and family!
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is designed to be easy to follow and produce consistently delicious results. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your own variations! Add a dash of almond extract to the cherry filling, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top of the streusel, or serve the pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-indulgent treat. The possibilities are endless!
So, are you ready to ditch the slice and embrace the individual deliciousness of Mini Cherry Pies with Streusel? Let’s get baking!
These mini pies are also a great way to use up leftover pie crust. Instead of letting those scraps go to waste, turn them into a batch of these delightful treats. It’s a win-win situation – you get to enjoy a delicious dessert while reducing food waste!
Furthermore, these Mini Cherry Pies with Streusel are a fantastic option for those who are looking for gluten-free or vegan dessert options. Simply substitute the regular pie crust with a gluten-free or vegan alternative, and use a vegan butter substitute for the streusel topping. With a few simple swaps, you can create a dessert that everyone can enjoy!
No matter how you choose to make them, these Mini Cherry Pies with Streusel are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Their irresistible flavor, easy preparation, and adorable presentation make them the perfect dessert for any occasion.
Don’t just take my word for it – try the recipe yourself and experience the magic of these miniature masterpieces. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came straight from a bakery. So go ahead, indulge in the sweet, tart, and crumbly goodness of Mini Cherry Pies with Streusel. You deserve it!
And if you’re looking for more delicious dessert ideas, be sure to check out my other recipes. From cookies and cakes to pies and puddings, I’ve got something to satisfy every sweet tooth. Happy baking!
In conclusion, Mini Cherry Pies with Streusel are a delightful and versatile dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Their combination of sweet cherry filling, flaky pie crust, and crumbly streusel topping is simply irresistible. So why not give this recipe a try and experience the magic for yourself? You won’t be disappointed!
These mini cherry pies are more than just a recipe; they are a testament to the fact that delicious things can come in small packages. They are a perfect representation of summer flavors and offer a delightful burst of fruity sweetness in every bite.
Moreover, they showcase the beauty of simplicity in baking. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dessert that is both elegant and comforting.
Finally, Mini Cherry Pies with Streusel are a reminder to cherish the small joys in life, like a perfectly baked treat shared with loved ones. So go ahead, make a batch, and spread the happiness!
Craving more? Subscribe to Just a Taste to get new recipes, meal plans and a newsletter delivered straight to your inbox! And stay in touch on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram for all of the latest updates.
Mini Cherry Pies with Streusel
