Mini Cherry Cream Cheese Pies (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Filling

01 - 2 cups fresh or canned cherries, chopped and drained if canned
02 - 1 cup cream cheese, softened
03 - ¼ cup granulated sugar
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Crust

05 - 1 package (2 crusts) refrigerated pie crusts
06 - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash

→ Finishing

07 - 2 tablespoons apricot jam (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners.
02 - Roll out pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 4-inch diameter circles and press gently into muffin cups, ensuring edges reach the top.
03 - In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
04 - Spoon cream cheese mixture into each pie shell, filling halfway. Top with a generous portion of chopped cherries.
05 - Roll remaining pie crust into thin strips and arrange in a lattice pattern over each pie. Trim excess and gently seal edges.
06 - Brush lattice tops with beaten egg for a golden finish when baked.
07 - Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until crusts are golden brown and filling is bubbly.
08 - If desired, warm apricot jam for 10-15 seconds in microwave and brush over warm pies for added sweetness and shine.

# Notes:

01 - Fresh cherries provide vibrant flavor, but canned cherries work well when drained thoroughly.
02 - Softening cream cheese before mixing ensures a smooth, lump-free filling.
03 - Adjust sugar amount based on the sweetness of your cherries.