Copycat McDonald's Strawberry and Cream Mini Pies are the perfect breakfast or sweet treat! Crispy, crumbly pastry encasing a fresh strawberry and cream cheese filling makes a delicious combination.
In a food processor, process the strawberries with ½ tablespoon of sugar. Set aside.
2 cups hulled and chopped strawberries, 3½ tablespoons granulated sugar
In a medium bowl, using a hand mixer, cream together the egg, cream cheese, remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar, and vanilla. Blend until fluffy.
8 ounces low-fat cream cheese, 1 large egg, 3½ tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Unroll the 2 pie crusts onto a lightly floured surface and cut into 12 rectangles (6 per sheet of dough).
15 ounces refrigerated pre-made pie crust
Cut a small slit or heart into 6 of the rectangles (to allow steam to escape).
Place a spoonful of cream cheese filling next to a spoonful of the strawberry mixture onto each of the other 6 rectangles (without the slits), leaving room along the edge. (You can also put down the cream cheese first, and top with the strawberries.)
Cover each filled rectangle with a layer of dough (the pieces with the slits) and use a fork to secure the edges well.
Brush lightly with egg and sprinkle with a little extra sugar if desired.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until slightly browned. Let cool before enjoying.
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Notes
Let the cream cheese sit on the counter for at least 15-30 minutes to let it soften.
You can use a store-bought crust. It works great!
You can use different fruits to make different flavors! Try blueberries, cherries, or raspberries instead.
Make sure you lightly flour the surface you're rolling your pastry on, to avoid sticking.
Use a fork to press down the top pastry layer into the bottom. Besides sealing the crust, it makes a lovely rustic edging.
Use a fork to press the two rectangles together to seal the hand pies.
The egg wash helps to brown and crisp up the pie crust in the oven to create the deliciously flaky texture!
If you're looking to REALLY take them up a notch, top with some vanilla bean ice cream.
Be sure to cut some sort of vent in the pastry dough. The hearts look really cut, but you can just cut slits if you prefer.
Nutritional information is calculated using refrigerated pie crusts, not a homemade recipe.
Storage: Store copycat McDonalds strawberry cream pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.