If you’ve ever wished for a dessert that’s as adorable as it is delicious, Cupid’s Love Pies are about to steal your heart (and your taste buds!). These irresistible mini hand pies combine flaky golden pastry, luscious strawberry jam, and a hint of creamy vanilla filling—all shaped into charming little hearts. They’re quick to make, perfect for gifting or sharing, and sure to be the highlight of any Valentine’s Day celebration. Cupid’s Love Pies aren’t just eye candy—they’re downright irresistible, one-bite marvels that make any day feel a little more special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Cupid’s Love Pies is how a handful of simple ingredients can create something unforgettable. Every component lends its own special touch—think tangy jam for bright flavor, cream cheese for creamy richness, and a touch of sparkle on top. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- Refrigerated pie crusts (1 package, 2 crusts): These make prep a breeze and ensure perfectly buttery, flaky layers every time.
- Strawberry jam (1/2 cup): The burst of fruity sweetness at the center; raspberry jam works just as beautifully if you prefer.
- Cream cheese, softened (1/4 cup): Blends into the filling for extra creaminess and a subtle tang.
- Powdered sugar (1 tablespoon): Lightly sweetens the cream cheese without making it too heavy.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds soft, fragrant depth to the creamy filling.
- Egg (1, beaten): The secret to golden, glossy tops; it’s used as an egg wash and to help seal the pies.
- Coarse sugar or sanding sugar (2 tablespoons, optional): A sparkling, crunchy finish if you’re in the mood for a little extra flair.
- Melted white chocolate or pink candy melts (1/4 cup, optional): For those lovely drizzles that add sweetness and whimsy.
How to Make Cupid’s Love Pies
Step 1: Prep Your Workspace and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—you’ll thank yourself later when cleanup takes seconds. A lightly floured surface keeps your pie crusts from sticking, making cutting those perfect little hearts a joy.
Step 2: Roll and Cut the Pie Crusts
Unfurl your refrigerated pie crusts and gently roll them out on your floured surface. Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, stamp out as many hearts as you can, aiming for pairs. With each cut, you’re building the foundation for those golden Cupid’s Love Pies.
Step 3: Create the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a small bowl, combine your softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and dreamy. This mixture will be the pillowy center that complements the tart jam.
Step 4: Fill and Assemble the Pies
Place half of your heart cutouts onto the lined baking sheet. Spoon a little cream cheese mixture in the middle of each heart—try not to go all the way to the edges. Top with a teaspoon of strawberry jam. Brush the edges with beaten egg to help the pies seal tight, then gently place another heart cutout on top. Use a fork to crimp all around, giving each pie its signature, homespun look.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Brush the tops of the assembled pies with more egg wash. For a special shimmer, sprinkle on some coarse sugar or sanding sugar. This not only gives the tops a sweet bite, but also a lovely, glittering finish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide your tray into the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes—your kitchen will start to smell absolutely heavenly! The pies are done when the tops are golden and flaky, and maybe a little jam is peeking through.
Step 7: Cool and Drizzle
Let the Cupid’s Love Pies cool for 5 to 10 minutes. If you want to add the extra wow factor, drizzle melted white chocolate or pink candy melts over the tops in playful zigzags. These finishing touches truly make them irresistible.
How to Serve Cupid’s Love Pies
Garnishes
A little garnish goes a long way here—consider a dusting of powdered sugar right before serving, or extra drizzles of chocolate for the ultra-sweet tooth. Even a fresh strawberry slice or a few heart-shaped confetti sprinkles invite smiles all around.
Side Dishes
Cupid’s Love Pies shine on their own, but if you’re setting out a treat table, they’re lovely with chilled glasses of milk, vanilla ice cream, or a pile of plump fresh berries. For adults, a coffee or sparkling rosé also makes a charming match.
Creative Ways to Present
Bring Cupid’s Love Pies to the next level by presenting them in pretty pastry boxes, tied with baker’s twine—a swoon-worthy edible Valentine! You can also arrange them in a heart shape on a platter, or stack them in clear treat bags for party favors.
Cupid’s Love Pies: Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your Cupid’s Love Pies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and delightful for up to 2 days, though they rarely last that long!
Freezing
Once cooled, Cupid’s Love Pies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a tray to freeze, then pop them into a freezer-safe bag or container. When sweet cravings strike, just thaw and reheat—they’ll taste just as wonderful as the day you baked them.
Reheating
For that just-baked magic, warm your pies in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes. Microwave works in a pinch, but the oven revives that irresistible flakiness, as if Cupid had made them fresh just for you.
FAQs
Can I use other jams or preserves in Cupid’s Love Pies?
Absolutely! Raspberry, cherry, or even a chocolate-hazelnut spread are delicious alternatives—just aim for a thick jam so it doesn’t run out the sides.
Is it possible to make Cupid’s Love Pies gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute a gluten-free pie crust for the regular one. Watch baking times, as gluten-free crusts can brown a little faster.
Can I prepare Cupid’s Love Pies in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the pies and refrigerate them, unbaked, for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just bake straight from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to the bake time.
What if I don’t have a heart-shaped cookie cutter?
No worries! Use any cookie cutter you love, or cut freehand with a knife—stars, circles, or even little squares all work. It’s the flavor (and the love!) that matters most.
How do I make sure the edges seal well?
Brushing the edges with egg wash and pressing firmly with a fork works wonders. If you notice any filling peeking out, just wipe it away so the seal holds strong during baking.
Final Thoughts
Few things beat the charm and flavor of homemade Cupid’s Love Pies. They’re a joy to bake, share, and, of course, devour—whether it’s Valentine’s Day or a random Tuesday. So roll up your sleeves and treat your favorite people (or yourself!) to this heartfelt, irresistible treat. Happy baking!
PrintCupid’s Love Pies Recipe
These Cupid’s Love Pies are adorable, heart-shaped hand pies filled with a sweet and creamy strawberry jam filling, perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion. They are easy to make and even more fun to eat!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini pies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Pie Crust:
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
Filling:
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam (or raspberry jam)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons coarse sugar or sanding sugar, optional for topping
- 1/4 cup melted white chocolate or pink candy melts for drizzle (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Crust: Roll out pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out an even number of hearts.
- Make Filling: In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Assemble Pies: Place half of the heart cutouts on the baking sheet. Spread cream cheese mixture in the center of each, top with jam, brush edges with egg wash, and seal with remaining hearts.
- Bake: Brush tops with egg wash, sprinkle with sugar if desired, and bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
- Drizzle: Cool slightly, then drizzle with melted white chocolate or candy melts if using.
Notes
- These little pies are perfect for Valentine’s Day.
- You can fill them with chocolate hazelnut spread or cherry preserves instead of jam.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini pie
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 160 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg