
Bite-sized cherry pie bombs are my answer to a quick sweet craving when I want all the nostalgia of cherry pie but none of the fuss. With just a can of biscuits and a handful of pantry basics you can create gooey fruit-filled treats straight out of the air fryer or oven. These are perfect for impromptu gatherings friends dropping by or family movie nights.
The first time I made these it was a rainy afternoon and my kids kept peeking into the kitchen asking if they could help. Now we make them together every time someone craves cherry filling and they love rolling the dough balls in cinnamon sugar.
Ingredients
- Grand-style biscuits: You want the classic variety not flaky layers or crescent dough so the filling stays tucked in and the bomb holds its shape. Look for a brand that feels cold and fresh when squeezed to ensure best texture
- Cherry pie filling: That pop of sweet and tart makes these little bombs shine. My trick is to choose a filling with visible whole cherries for juiciness
- Unsalted butter: Melted for brushing each bomb This gives richness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick
- Cinnamon-sugar blend: The classic sweet-spice coating Look for fine-grain sugar and fresh cinnamon for best flavor
- Almond extract (optional): Just a hint stirred into the filling brings out extra cherry flavor If you love traditional cherry pie this is a game-changer
- Nutmeg or cardamom (optional for the sugar mix): A pinch adds cozy warmth If you want extra aroma use freshly grated spice
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- Split each biscuit horizontally using a gentle sawing motion so you end up with two equal rounds per biscuit for a total of sixteen Place each on a lightly floured surface and use your fingers or a small rolling pin to flatten into a four-inch circle
- Add the Filling:
- Scoop one generous tablespoon of cherry pie filling into the center of each dough round Try to get mostly cherries for a packed bite If using almond extract stir it into the filling first
- Shape and Seal:
- Pinch the dough edges up and over the filling then gently press and roll to fully enclose the cherry center forming a neat ball Make sure the seams are sealed to prevent leaks
- Butter and Sugar:
- Brush each dough ball lightly with melted butter Then roll each one in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat all sides For extra color and flavor add a sprinkle of cardamom or nutmeg to the sugar now
- Choose Your Cooking Method:
- For the Air Fryer lightly oil the basket place bombs in with plenty of space set to 330 degrees and air fry for six to seven minutes Shake loose with a spatula if needed then give them an extra one to two minutes until deeply golden For the Oven line a baking sheet with parchment set bombs two inches apart and bake at 375 degrees for twelve to fifteen minutes until evenly golden
- Cool and Serve:
- Let bombs cool slightly so the filling sets but serve while warm for the perfect gooey center If you wait a few minutes the texture will be just right

My favorite twist is adding a hint of almond extract to the filling because it makes the cherry flavor even more nostalgic. One time my daughter sprinkled a little extra cinnamon-sugar over the finished bombs and now we always do it for sparkle.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days They can be gently reheated in the oven at 300 degrees just until warmed through or popped into the air fryer for a few minutes to restore that crispy exterior
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to switch up the fruit use apple or blueberry pie filling for a fun flavor change For a dairy-free version use vegan butter for brushing and check your pie filling label
Serving Suggestions
Pile them high on a platter with a side of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for dipping For brunch try pairing with hot coffee or sweet tea This recipe is also fantastic for a potluck or picnic
Cultural and Historical Context
Fruit-filled hand pies have a long history in American baking often made as portable desserts for farm workers, picnics, and fairs This modern shortcut uses the same comforting flavors but skips all the old-fashioned rolling and crimping making it totally doable any day of the week
Seasonal Adaptations
Try swapping cherry filling for fresh summer berries lightly macerated with sugar during berry season Add a touch of orange zest to the cinnamon sugar in winter for a festive twist For autumn use apple pie filling and a dusting of pumpkin spice instead
Success Stories
My best friend brought these to a school bake sale and they vanished before lunch The air fryer version is especially popular since it keeps the kitchen cool during summer parties Several friends have messaged me photos of their kids proudly holding sticky cinnamon-sugar bombs making this recipe a true keeper
Freezer Meal Conversion
Assemble the bombs completely but do not cook Lay on a tray to freeze solid then store in zip bags When ready to eat bake or air fry straight from the freezer adding just a few extra minutes to the cooking time

Serve these cherry pie bombs warm and watch them disappear. It is hard to resist their gooey centers and nostalgic flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use homemade biscuit dough?
Yes, homemade biscuit dough works well. Just ensure it's rich and fluffy for the best texture.
- → Can I substitute other fruit fillings?
Absolutely—try apple, blueberry, or peach filling for variety, but keep the portion to avoid leaks.
- → How do I prevent the bombs from leaking?
Seal edges tightly, roll gently, and avoid overfilling to contain the cherry filling during baking.
- → Is the air fryer method better than baking?
Both methods work well. Air frying gives a slightly crispier exterior, while baking is convenient for large batches.
- → Can these be prepared ahead of time?
You can assemble in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake or air fry. Best served warm for gooey centers.
- → What can I serve with cherry bombs?
Enjoy them on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of simple glaze for extra sweetness.