Delicious Mini Cherry Cream Cheese Pies

Ingredients:

  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 egg
  • 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
  • 1 package (15 count) mini pie crusts (or 1 package refrigerated pie crust, cut into 3-inch circles)

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Add the egg and beat until well combined.
  4. Place the mini pie crusts on a baking sheet.
  5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture into each mini pie crust.
  6. Top each with a spoonful of cherry pie filling.
  7. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is set.
  8. Allow to cool before serving.
  9. Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 18 minutes | Total Time: 28 minutes
  10. Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 15 mini pies

FAQs:

  • Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?
    • Yes, you can use fresh cherries. To do so, you’ll need to pit and cook them with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to thicken the filling. This homemade cherry filling can be used as a substitute for canned cherry pie filling.
  • Can I make these mini pies ahead of time?
    • Absolutely! You can prepare the mini cherry cream cheese pies a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. They actually taste better after chilling, as the flavors have more time to meld together.
  • What type of crust works best for these pies?
    • A graham cracker crust is a popular choice for mini cherry cream cheese pies, but you can also use pre-made mini pie crusts or even make your own pastry crust. Choose based on your preference for texture and flavor.
  • How do I prevent the cream cheese filling from cracking?
    • To prevent cracks in the cream cheese filling, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing, avoid over-mixing the batter, and bake at a moderate temperature. Cooling the pies gradually by turning off the oven and leaving the door slightly open can also help prevent cracks.
  • Can I freeze mini cherry cream cheese pies?
    • Yes, you can freeze them. Place the cooled pies in an airtight container or wrap them individually with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To serve, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Note that the texture of the cream cheese filling may change slightly after freezing.

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