In the world of desserts, there’s something incredibly satisfying about creating treats that not only taste delicious but also bring a dash of whimsy and surprise to the table. Enter the Cherry Pie Bombs: a delightful twist on the classic cherry pie, encapsulated in a golden, fried crescent roll, and finished with a sweet, vanilla-infused glaze. These little pockets of joy are the perfect addition to any celebration, or simply a way to make an ordinary day feel a bit more special. Let’s dive into how to make these festive treats that promise an explosion of flavor with every bite.
Ingredients
Before we get started, let’s make sure we have everything we need. This recipe is surprisingly simple, requiring just a few ingredients for the cherry pie bombs themselves and a quick-to-make glaze to top them off.
For the Cherry Pie Bombs:
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- Oil for frying
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Prepare the Dough:
Begin by gently unrolling the crescent roll dough onto a clean, flat surface. Instead of separating the dough into the pre-cut crescent shapes, cut it into 16 squares. This will form the base of our bombs. In the center of each square, place a small spoonful of cherry pie filling, ensuring it’s centered to make sealing easier.
Form the Bombs:
Carefully fold the dough over the filling, bringing the edges together to create a seal. Pinch the edges firmly to ensure the filling is securely enclosed. This step is crucial to prevent any leaks during the frying process, keeping all that luscious cherry goodness where it belongs.
Fry the Bombs:
Heat your oil in a deep fryer or a large saucepan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the cherry pie bombs in batches to avoid overcrowding, flipping them once until they achieve a beautiful golden brown hue, roughly 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon for safe removal from the oil, draining them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Make the Glaze:
While your cherry pie bombs are cooling slightly, it’s time to whisk together the glaze. In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth. If the glaze seems too thick, feel free to add a bit more milk, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
Glaze and Serve:
Now for the final, and arguably most enjoyable, part: glazing. While the cherry pie bombs are still warm, drizzle them with the glaze or dip them in it to coat thoroughly. Allow them to set for a few minutes before serving to let the glaze firm up a bit.
Serving Suggestions
These cherry pie bombs are best enjoyed warm, with the glaze slightly melted, creating a mouthwatering contrast between the crispy outer shell and the soft, fruity interior. They’re perfect for serving at parties, as a sweet snack for family movie nights, or whenever you’re in the mood for a bite-sized treat that packs a punch of flavor.
Nutritional Information
Each cherry pie bomb comes in at approximately 100 kcal, making them a delightfully indulgent treat that won’t weigh you down. This recipe yields 16 bombs, ensuring there’s plenty of joy to go around.
From the prep to the final glaze, the total time needed to bring these cherry pie bombs to life is just 18 minutes, making them an ideal option for those moments when you crave something sweet but are short on time. So, why wait? Dive into the delightful world of cherry pie bombs and let every bite take you on a festive journey of taste and texture. Happy cooking!
Extra Tips for Perfection
- Chill Before Frying: If you have time, chilling the formed bombs in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes before frying can help them maintain their shape and prevent the filling from leaking out.
- Seal Tightly: Use a fork to crimp the edges of your bombs after pinching them closed. This not only helps seal them more securely but also gives a decorative edge.
- Control Your Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at a steady temperature is crucial. If the oil is too hot, the bombs will brown too quickly without cooking through. If it’s too cool, they’ll absorb too much oil and become greasy. A kitchen thermometer can help monitor this.
What to Avoid
- Overfilling: It might be tempting to add extra cherry pie filling for a juicier center, but overfilling can cause the bombs to burst open during frying. Stick to a small spoonful.
- Using Wet Dough: If your dough becomes too warm and sticky, it can be challenging to work with and seal properly. If this happens, place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm up.
- Skipping the Draining Step: Always drain your fried cherry pie bombs on paper towels. Skipping this step can leave you with unnecessarily oily pastries.
FAQs
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the cherry pie bombs for a lighter version. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake them on a lined baking sheet for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Can I use homemade pie filling?
Absolutely! Homemade cherry pie filling can be used and might even elevate your cherry pie bombs to the next level with a more personal touch. Just ensure it’s thick enough to prevent leaking.
How do I store leftover cherry pie bombs?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to crisp them up again.
Can I freeze cherry pie bombs?
Yes, you can freeze them either before frying or after. If freezing before, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry or bake straight from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time. If freezing after frying, let them cool completely before freezing. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Can I use other fillings?
Definitely! While cherry is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other pie fillings like apple, blueberry, or even savory options like ham and cheese or pizza fillings for a twist.
With these additional tips, tricks, and answers to common questions, you’re well-equipped to make delicious Cherry Pie Bombs that will impress anyone who tries them. Remember, cooking is as much about creativity and experimentation as it is about following recipes, so don’t be afraid to make these bombs your own. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious creations!
