There’s a special joy that comes from baking something both sweet and whimsical, particularly when it involves heartfelt shapes. This past weekend, in search of a little creativity in the kitchen, I stumbled upon the idea of Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops. Suddenly, the notion of enjoying a delightful treat on a stick seemed to brighten up my day!
Imagine the moment when you pull these golden, heart-shaped pops from the oven. The sweet aroma of cherry mingling with freshly baked pie dough is enough to make anyone’s mouth water, and they’re so easy to whip up. Each bite combines the flaky pastry with the luscious jam, making them the perfect companion for a cozy afternoon or a cheerful dessert treat at gatherings.
These Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops aren’t just visually stunning; they’re also perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging in alone. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to bring a bit of nostalgia and joy into your kitchen. Let’s get started on making these little pieces of happiness!
Why Love Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops?
Irresistible sweetness: The delightful combination of buttery pie dough and rich cherry jam makes these pops a perfect treat for any occasion.
Heartfelt fun: Shaped like hearts, these treats add a playful twist that’s perfect for romantic dates or special celebrations.
Quick to make: In just one hour, you can create 12 pops, making them a fantastic time-saver when you need a homemade dessert.
Versatile treats: Whether enjoyed as an after-school snack or a dessert at a barbecue, they’re sure to please both kids and adults alike!
Easy to customize: Swap cherry jam for your favorite fruit preserves for a personal touch—it’s as simple as that!
Dive into this joyful recipe and brighten your day with these charming bites!
Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops Ingredients
For the Dough
• 1 batch Pie Dough – Use homemade or store-bought dough for a quicker prep!
For the Filling
• 1 cup Cherry Jam – Opt for a quality jam for the best flavor in your Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops.
For the Egg Wash
• 1 large Egg – This gives a beautiful golden finish to your pops.
Optional for Presentation
• Lollipop Sticks – Ideal if you want to make these pops even more fun and portable!
For the Topping
• 1 tablespoon Sugar – A sprinkle of sugar adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to the crust.
How to Make Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.
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Roll out the pie dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Aim for a nice, even thickness to give you those beautiful, flaky pops!
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Cut the dough into heart shapes using a cookie cutter. Feel free to mix sizes for added charm! Each heart will hold the delicious cherry filling.
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Spoon a generous amount of cherry jam onto half of the heart-shaped dough pieces, leaving a small border. This ensures your filling won’t overflow while baking, keeping the shape intact.
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Insert lollipop sticks into the filling of each heart before covering it with another heart shape. This is where the fun begins—these pops will be adorable and easy to hold!
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Brush the edges with egg wash to seal them tightly. Gently pressing the edges together will help keep that jam tucked in nicely while baking.
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Brush the tops with more egg wash and sprinkle with sugar. This will give your pops a beautiful sheen and a sweet crunch on top.
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Bake for 20-30 minutes until golden brown. Keep an eye on them—the aroma will be irresistible, and you’ll want to catch them at just the right moment!
Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops
Room Temperature: Keep your Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their deliciousness and crunchy texture.
Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, store the pops in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat them slightly before serving to restore some crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, these pops can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: To enjoy your Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops again, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes. This will ensure they return to their original delightful crispness!
Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these cheerful Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops with delightful tweaks!
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Berry Medley: Swap out cherry jam for a mix of raspberry, blueberry, and strawberry jams for a fruity explosion. It’s like a summer picnic in every bite!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Top baked pops with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for a rich flavor contrast. This sweet touch adds a luxurious twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans into the cherry jam filling for added texture and a delightful crunch. This will take your pops to a whole new level of deliciousness!
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Spicy Surprise: Spice things up by adding a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes to the cherry jam. The heat pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness!
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Gluten-Free Dough: Use a gluten-free pie dough to make this recipe accessible for anyone with dietary restrictions. Everyone deserves a delicious treat!
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Vegan Twist: Substitute the egg wash with a plant-based milk for brushing, and use a vegan pie crust. These pops will be as kind as they are tasty!
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Lemon Zest: Brighten up the filling by mixing in a teaspoon of lemon zest with the jam. This adds a refreshing zing that complements the sweet cherry beautifully.
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Mini Pops: For bite-sized delights, cut smaller hearts from the dough. These mini pops are perfect for parties or sweet snacks throughout the day!
Embrace these variations and make this joyful recipe your own!
Expert Tips for Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops
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Dough Consistency: Ensure your pie dough is cold before rolling; this helps achieve a flaky texture that’s vital for the best Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops.
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Jam Selection: Choose a high-quality cherry jam for maximum flavor. Avoid overly runny jams, as they can leak during baking.
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Sealing Edges: Make sure to press down firmly on the edges of the dough after brushing with egg wash to avoid any filling spills while baking.
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Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pops during the last few minutes of baking. Ovens can vary, and you want them perfectly golden and not overbaked.
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Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat them in a toaster oven to refresh their crispness.
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops are fantastic for meal prep, saving you time on bustling weekdays! You can prepare the pie dough and cut it into heart shapes up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the cut-outs, spaced apart, to keep them from sticking together. The cherry jam filling can also be prepped ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just assemble the pops by adding the jam and lollipop sticks, brushing with egg wash, and baking according to the recipe. By making these components ahead of time, you’ll have freshly baked, delightful treats with ease and enjoy the same deliciousness as if you made them all at once!
What to Serve with Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops?
Imagine a gathering of friends or family where the sweetness of these charming pie pops sets the perfect backdrop for laughter and warmth.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm cherry filling, adding a delightful contrast of temperatures.
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Sparkling Water with Citrus: A refreshing sparkling water infused with lemon or lime brings a light, zesty kick that balances the sweetness wonderfully.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of airy whipped cream complements the richness of the cherry jam while enhancing the overall elegance of these heart-shaped treats.
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Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For a decadent touch, serve with a warm chocolate dipping sauce that creates an indulgent flavor with each bite.
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Fresh Berries: A side of assorted fresh berries adds a burst of tartness and a pop of color, creating a beautiful presentation alongside the pie pops.
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Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee or a shot of espresso provide a robust contrast, making each bite of the pie pops even more delightful.
These pairings ensure your Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops shine even brighter at any occasion, making sweet moments even more memorable!
Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cherry jam?
Absolutely! When selecting cherry jam, look for those made with real fruit and minimal preservatives. A high-quality jam will provide the best flavor and textural consistency for your Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops. Ideally, it should spread easily without being overly runny or too thick. Check for vibrant color and fruity aroma!
How should I store my Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops?
To keep your Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to extend their life, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just remember to lightly reheat them before serving to regain that delightful crispness!
Can I freeze my Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops?
Definitely! To freeze, start by placing the baked pops in a single layer on a baking sheet—this prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can last for up to 2 months. When you crave a treat, just preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes for a freshly-popped experience!
What if my pie dough tears while assembling?
No worries at all! If your dough tears, simply patch it up with a small piece of extra dough. You can dampen the edges lightly with water or egg wash to help adhere the pieces together. This ensures that your cherry filling stays snug while baking and doesn’t spill out.
Can I use other fruit preserves in this recipe?
Very much so! The beauty of these Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops is their versatility. You can swap cherry jam for any fruit preserve you adore—think apricot, strawberry, or even mixed berry. Just ensure the consistency is similar, so it bakes well!
Are these pie pops safe for children?
Absolutely! These Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops are a fun and safe treat for kids, making them an excellent choice for family gatherings or playdates. However, always be cautious with the lollipop sticks and supervise young children while enjoying them to ensure safety.
Delicious Cherry Jam Heart Pie Pops for Sweet Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the pie dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut the dough into heart shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Spoon a generous amount of cherry jam onto half of the heart-shaped dough pieces.
- Insert lollipop sticks into the filling of each heart before covering with another heart shape.
- Brush the edges with egg wash to seal them tightly.
- Brush the tops with more egg wash and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes until golden brown.