
Easy Cherry Puff Pastry Cups: A Deliciously Simple Dessert
Looking for a quick and elegant dessert that’s perfect for any occasion? These cherry puff pastry cups are an absolute delight. With a flaky, golden crust and sweet cherry filling, they’re easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Whether it’s a family dinner, a tea party, or a holiday treat, these little cups are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients for Cherry Puff Pastry Cups
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
- 1 cup (250g) cherry pie filling (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter, for greasing the muffin tin
How to Make Cherry Puff Pastry Cups
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut the sheet into 12 equal squares (or adjust the size depending on your muffin tin).
3. Assemble the Cups
- Gently press each puff pastry square into the prepared muffin tin, making sure the edges come up to form a cup.
- Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of cherry pie filling into the center of each cup. Be careful not to overfill.
- Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling, leaving a small gap in the center.
4. Add the Finishing Touches
- Brush the tops of the puff pastry with beaten egg to achieve a golden, glossy finish.
- Sprinkle with sugar for a touch of sweetness and sparkle, if desired.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed.
- Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the cups cool for 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
- Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive holidays.
- Elegant and Delicious: A beautiful dessert that tastes as good as it looks.
Tips for Perfect Cherry Puff Pastry Cups
- Thaw Puff Pastry Properly: Let the puff pastry thaw in the fridge for a few hours to ensure it’s easy to work with.
- Use Fresh Cherries: For an extra-special touch, make your own cherry filling with fresh cherries, sugar, and a little cornstarch.
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the cups to overflow during baking.
FAQs About Cherry Puff Pastry Cups
1. Can I use other fillings?
Yes! Swap the cherry pie filling for apple, blueberry, or even a savory option like cream cheese and spinach.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store the cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate and reheat in the oven for crispiness.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the cups and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Bake them fresh for the best results.
Why This Dessert Stands Out
Cherry puff pastry cups are a perfect balance of buttery, flaky pastry and sweet, tangy cherries. They’re simple to make yet impressive enough to steal the show at any gathering. Plus, their individual portions make them easy to serve and enjoy.
Treat yourself and your loved ones to these delightful cherry puff pastry cups. Try this recipe today and share your results in the comments below. Happy baking!