Delicious Air Fryer Cherry Pie: Quick & Easy Mini Dessert Recipe
Imagine a warm, bubbly cherry pie, encased in a perfectly golden, flaky crust, ready to enjoy in just minutes. That’s exactly what you get with our incredibly easy air fryer cherry pie recipe! This method transforms a classic dessert into a lightning-fast treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings without the long wait. Whether you’re baking for one or preparing individual servings for a small gathering, these air fried mini cherry pies are a game-changer. They bake to perfection in about 15 minutes, delivering all the comforting flavors of homemade pie with minimal effort. Plus, this versatile individual cherry pie recipe allows for easy substitution of cherry pie filling with other fruit favorites, making it adaptable to any taste. Dive into the simple steps and discover expert tips for crafting these delightful mini cherry pies, including how to make charming air fryer cherry hand pies, and much more!
There’s something uniquely satisfying about a warm slice of pie, and these easy mini cherry pies capture that essence perfectly. They are undoubtedly one of my favorite desserts with cherry pie filling, offering a burst of sweet and tart flavor in every bite. The air fryer’s ability to create a wonderfully crisp crust while heating the filling evenly makes this recipe an absolute winner. You’ll love the incredible taste and the sheer convenience of preparing such a delightful treat so quickly. Say goodbye to lengthy oven preheating and baking times – the air fryer makes homemade pie accessible whenever the craving strikes.
Why You’ll Love Air Frying Mini Cherry Pies
The air fryer has revolutionized kitchen appliances, and for good reason. When it comes to baking, especially smaller items like individual pies, it offers distinct advantages:
- Speed: Air fryers cook significantly faster than conventional ovens due to their concentrated hot air circulation. This means your cherry pie will be ready in minutes, not an hour.
- Crispy Crust: The intense, circulating heat of the air fryer is perfect for achieving an incredibly crispy and flaky crust, both on top and on the bottom, without drying out the filling.
- Energy Efficiency: For smaller portions, using an air fryer is much more energy-efficient than heating up a large oven.
- Portion Control: Mini pies are excellent for portion control, making it easy to enjoy a single serving without temptation. They’re also ideal for individual desserts at dinner parties or for a personal treat.
- Less Heat in the Kitchen: Especially during warmer months, using an air fryer keeps your kitchen cooler compared to a traditional oven.
These benefits combine to make the air fryer the ideal appliance for whipping up delicious fruit pies, particularly when you desire a quick, satisfying dessert. Our air fryer cherry pie recipe takes full advantage of these features to deliver a superior pie experience.
🥧 Essential Ingredients for Your Quick Cherry Pie
Crafting a delectable cherry pie in the air fryer requires a handful of accessible ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need, along with tips for selection:
- Refrigerated Pie Crust: For ultimate convenience and time-saving, a store-bought refrigerated pie crust is your best friend. Look for brands that offer a consistent, flaky texture. If you prefer a homemade touch, ensure your pastry dough is rolled out evenly to about ⅛-inch (0.3cm) thick and cut into rounds that precisely fit your mini pie tin. This ensures an even bake and a sturdy foundation for your filling.
- ½ cup Cherry Pie Filling: The star of the show! Canned cherry pie filling is a fantastic shortcut, providing that classic sweet and slightly tart flavor without the hassle of pitting cherries or making a compote from scratch. Choose a high-quality brand that you enjoy for the best results. You’ll find different varieties, some with more whole cherries than others – pick your preference.
- 1 Beaten Egg: This simple ingredient is crucial for creating a beautiful egg wash. Whisking one large egg until smooth will yield the perfect consistency to brush over your pie crust. The egg wash is essential for giving the pie its gorgeous golden-brown color and slightly glossy, professional finish. It also aids in achieving that desirable flaky texture.
- Sanding Sugar (Optional but Recommended): While not strictly necessary for the pie’s structure or taste, a light sprinkle of sanding sugar elevates its appeal. It adds a delightful sparkle and a pleasant crunchy texture to the top crust, making your mini pies look and feel extra special. If you don’t have sanding sugar, regular granulated sugar can be used, though it won’t provide the same glistening effect.
- Cooking Oil Spray: A non-stick cooking spray is vital for properly preparing your pie pan. A quick coat ensures that your pie crust won’t stick, allowing for easy removal of your perfectly baked pie without any tearing or mess.
Flavor Variations and Swaps
While cherry pie is a beloved classic, this individual cherry pie recipe is incredibly versatile. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fruit fillings based on your preference or what you have on hand. Blueberry pie filling offers a sweet and slightly tangy alternative, while apple pie filling provides a comforting, spiced flavor. Peach, mixed berry, or even a savory filling could transform this recipe into a new favorite. The basic method for the crust and baking remains the same, making it easy to switch things up.
Choosing the Right Air Fryer Equipment
To make these mini pies, you will need a 5-inch metal pie tin (approximately 12.7cm in diameter). It’s a common misconception that metal is unsafe in an air fryer; however, metal bakeware is perfectly safe to use, provided it fits comfortably within your air fryer’s basket or oven-style cavity. Ensure there’s adequate space for air to circulate around the tin for even cooking. This allows you to bake a “real” pie, just miniaturized! Additionally, a small pastry brush will be invaluable for applying the egg wash smoothly and evenly.
Most popular air fryer brands on the market today are well-suited for this recipe. Whether you own a Ninja Foodi, Cosori, Actifry, Nuwave, Instant Vortex, Philips, Cuisinart, or Power Air Fryer, you can successfully air fry these pies. Keep in mind that air fryers can vary in their heating elements and fan speeds, leading to slight differences in cooking times. Therefore, it’s always a smart practice to check your pie a few minutes before the suggested cooking time during your initial attempt, adjusting as needed for your specific appliance.
How to Make Mini Cherry Pies: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these delightful air fryer mini cherry pies is incredibly straightforward. Follow these detailed instructions to ensure a perfect bake every time:
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer and Prepare the Pie Pan
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 325°F (163°C) for 5 minutes. This ensures the air fryer is at the optimal temperature for even cooking from the moment your pie goes in. While it preheats, take your 5-inch pie pan and lightly coat the inside with cooking spray. This crucial step prevents the pie crust from sticking. Then, carefully line the bottom of the pan with one of your refrigerated pie crust rounds. Gently press it into place, ensuring it covers the bottom and slightly extends up the sides.
Step 2: Fill and Seal the Pie Crust
Now it’s time for the delicious filling! Spoon approximately ½ cup of your chosen cherry pie filling evenly over the bottom crust. Avoid overfilling, as this can lead to spillage during baking. Next, carefully place the second pie crust round on top of the filling. Take your time to gently press and seal the edges of the top and bottom crusts together. You can use your fingers to crimp them, or for a more classic look, use the tines of a fork to create a decorative, sealed edge. Before proceeding, remember to cut a few small slits in the top crust. These vents are essential for allowing steam to escape during baking, preventing a soggy crust and ensuring your pie cooks through beautifully.
Step 3: Apply the Egg Wash and Sanding Sugar
For that irresistible golden-brown finish, brush a thin, even layer of the beaten egg wash over the entire top surface of the pie crust. This egg wash is vital not only for color but also for creating a wonderfully crisp and flaky texture. If you desire a touch of sweetness and extra sparkle, generously sprinkle sanding sugar over the egg-washed top. This optional step significantly enhances the visual appeal and adds a delightful subtle crunch to your finished mini pie.
Step 4: Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Carefully transfer your prepared mini cherry pie into the preheated air fryer basket. If you are using an air fryer oven, position the pie on the middle rack for optimal air circulation. Air fry the cherry pie at 325°F (163°C) for 12-18 minutes. The exact cooking time may vary based on your air fryer model and the thickness of your crust, so keep a watchful eye. Your pie is done when the crust achieves a beautiful golden-brown color and the cherry filling is visibly hot and bubbling through the vents. Since canned cherry pie filling is already cooked, the goal is primarily to heat the filling thoroughly and achieve that perfect crispy crust. Once baked, carefully remove the pie from the air fryer and allow it to cool on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes before serving. This cooling period is crucial, as it allows the hot filling to set, preventing it from oozing out too quickly, and ensures the pie is safe to eat. A scoop of premium vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream makes a divine accompaniment to this warm, fruity treat!
In the unlikely event of leftovers (these individual pies are usually devoured quickly!), store any remaining air fried mini cherry pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For the best texture, reheat them gently before serving.
Air Fryer Cherry Pie FAQs & Expert Tips
How do you know when cherry pie is done baking?
Determining when your air fryer cherry pie is perfectly done is key to a delicious result. Look for a vibrant golden-brown color on the entire top crust. Additionally, the cherry filling should be visibly hot and bubbling through the slits you cut in the top crust. Since the canned cherry pie filling is already pre-cooked, you’re primarily aiming to ensure the crust is cooked through and crisp, and the filling is thoroughly heated. The bubbling indicates the filling has reached a good temperature, and the golden crust signifies ideal doneness and crispness.
Troubleshooting: What if the bottom pie crust isn’t cooking well?
It’s a common challenge with some air fryers: the top cooks faster and crisper than the bottom. If you find your bottom pie crust is still pale or feels soggy, don’t despair! Here are a few effective solutions:
- Cover Edges and Continue Air Frying: If your top crust is beautifully golden but the bottom needs more time, gently cover the edges of the top crust with a small strip of aluminum foil. This prevents the top from burning while allowing the bottom to continue cooking and crisping up for an additional 2-5 minutes.
- Embrace Top-Crust Only Pies: As an alternative, consider making pies with only a top crust. These “open-face” pies eliminate the worry of a soggy bottom altogether and are often quicker to bake. You still get all the delicious filling and a crispy top!
- Opt for Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies or Turnovers: For guaranteed even cooking and a different style of treat, switch to making air fryer cherry hand pies or turnovers. These individual portions are flippable, allowing both sides of the pastry to crisp up directly from the air fryer’s heat. This is also an excellent option if you want to enjoy a cherry pie-like dessert without needing a specific pie tin. You can find more detailed instructions for hand pies in the recipe notes below.
How do you reheat cherry pie in the air fryer?
Reheating cherry pie in an air fryer is the best way to bring it back to its freshly baked glory. To reheat, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (177°C). Place the leftover pie in the air fryer basket and heat for 3-5 minutes, or until it is warmed through to your liking and the crust has regained some of its crispness. The circulating hot air will refresh the pastry, making it taste almost as good as new!
How long do you cook a frozen pie in the air fryer?
Cooking a frozen cherry pie in the air fryer requires a bit more time but is entirely feasible. First, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). The cooking time will typically range from 25 to 45 minutes, largely depending on the size and thickness of the frozen pie, as well as the specific model and power of your air fryer. It is essential to monitor the pie closely. If you observe the top crust browning too quickly before the filling is adequately heated, cover the top of the pie loosely with aluminum foil. This will protect the crust from burning while allowing the internal filling to thoroughly cook. The pie is done when the internal temperature reaches 175-180°F (79-82°C) and the crust is golden brown and flaky.
👩🏻🍳 More Easy Air Fryer Recipes to Explore
Once you experience the ease and delicious results of making these air fryer cherry pies, you’ll be eager to unlock your air fryer’s full potential for other dishes! If you enjoyed using your mini pie tin, you absolutely must try making a fried air fryer egg – it’s a consistently popular recipe among readers and couldn’t be simpler. Beyond that, here’s a selection of more fantastic and easy air fryer recipes to inspire your next culinary adventure:
- Air Fryer Sugar Cookies (from scratch): Perfect for a quick batch of homemade cookies with a lovely crisp edge.
- Trader Joe’s Cinnamon Rolls (Air Fryer): Transform store-bought cinnamon rolls into warm, gooey delights in no time.
- Crispy Air Fryer Onions: A simple side dish or topping that’s surprisingly flavorful.
- Perfect Frozen Fish in Air Fryer: Achieve wonderfully crispy fish fillets without the mess of deep frying.
- How to Cook Canned Corned Beef Hash: A hearty breakfast or brunch option made easy in the air fryer.
- Top Air Fryer Recipes for Beginners: A curated list for those just starting their air frying journey.
Don’t limit your air fryer to just these! We encourage you to explore all the diverse and delicious air fryer recipes available on our site. From quick snacks to satisfying meals, your air fryer is a versatile tool waiting to be discovered!
Air Fryer Cherry Pie Recipe (Mini Cherry Pies)
Watch How to Make It!
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By Summer Yule
My air fryer cherry pie from scratch (almost!) is so easy to make and has a golden brown flaky pie crust. These air fried mini cherry pies only take about 15 minutes to bake, meaning you can satisfy your sweet tooth fast. Plus, you can easily substitute other pie fillings if you’d prefer. Get this mini cherry pie recipe and more tips!
Rated 5 stars from 2 votes
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Cook Time: 12-18 minutes
Total Time: 12-18 minutes
Course: Snack, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Servings: 1 mini pie
Calories: 482 kcal
Ingredients
- 1 refrigerated pie crust (⅛-inch thick or 0.3cm, cut to fit a 5-inch pie tin)
- ½ cup cherry pie filling
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Sanding sugar (optional but recommended)
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 325°F (163°C) for 5 minutes. Spray the pie pan with cooking spray, and line the bottom with one pie crust round.
- Fill the bottom crust with ½ cup of cherry pie filling. Cover with the second pie crust round. Seal the edges of the pie crusts together and cut a few small slits in the top crust to vent steam.
- Brush a thin layer of the beaten egg wash over the top of the pie. This is important to help with browning. Sprinkle with sanding sugar if desired.
- Air fry the cherry pie at 325°F (163°C) for 12-18 minutes in the preheated air fryer basket. (If using an air fryer oven, place the pie in the middle of the air fryer.) The pie is done when golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbling.
- Allow the pie to cool for 5-10 minutes before eating to allow the filling to set and prevent burns. (It’s great with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!)
Equipment
- 5″ Mini Pie Tins
- Silicone Pastry Brush
- Air Fryer (basket or oven style)
Notes
Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies
If you’re looking for a delightful variation of these cherry pie filling desserts, consider making cherry hand pies (also known as cherry empanadas). To prepare one, cut a 5-inch (12.7cm) round from your pie dough. Place about 2 tablespoons of cherry pie filling in the center of the dough. Carefully fold the circular dough in half over the filling, then firmly crimp the edges closed with a fork to create a secure seal. Brush the top of the hand pie with egg wash. Air fry these at 350°F (175°C) for 9-11 minutes. Then, flip the hand pie over, brush the other side with more egg wash, and air fry for an additional 2-4 minutes at 350°F (177°C), until both sides are golden brown and the filling is hot. It’s essential to let the hand pie cool for several minutes before eating, as the filling will be very hot!
💭 Expert Tips from Dietitian Summer Yule
This particular recipe falls under a “Level 3” classification, making it suitable for weight maintenance and active lifestyles. It’s worth noting that recipes featuring cherry pie filling often contain a significant amount of added sugar, in addition to the fat and white flour present in the pie crust. That being said, this is a truly delicious dessert intended for occasional enjoyment, rather than as a regular meal. Please feel free to savor this treat without any unnecessary nutrition lectures! 😊
Don’t let any leftover cherry pie filling go to waste! It’s incredibly versatile. You can spoon it over yogurt, mix it into your morning oatmeal, or use it as a decadent topping for ice cream. If you don’t plan to use it immediately, cherry pie filling freezes very well for future use, making it easy to enjoy year-round.
Nutrition information provided for this recipe is an estimate for one serving (one pie) and will naturally vary based on the specific brands and exact ingredients you choose to use.
Nutrition Info Disclaimer
All recipes on this website may or may not be appropriate for you, depending on your medical needs and personal preferences. Consult with a registered dietitian or your physician if you need help determining the dietary pattern that may be best for you.
The nutrition information is an estimate provided as a courtesy. It will differ depending on the specific brands and ingredients that you use. Calorie information on food labels may be inaccurate, so please don’t sweat the numbers too much.
“To taste” means to your preferences, which may have to be visual to follow food safety rules. Please don’t eat undercooked food.
Nutrition Facts (Estimated per serving)
- Calories: 482 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 80.6g
- Protein: 1.4g
- Fat: 18.5g
- Saturated Fat: 7.7g
- Sodium: 419.8mg
- Fiber: 1g
Keywords
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