Mini Cherry Pie

I've really been on a baking kick lately. My co-workers love it, but I think I need to start cooking real food again and not so many desserts! I just love my new mixer so much. Maybe I'll try something ambitious like making bread or something more savory... but not before I share with you my latest goodies!The first came from an idea that sparked when I saw there was some cherry pie filling in the pantry. Inspired by the Pina Colada cupcake recipe from Gina at Skinnytaste, I used the same technique of making cupcakes with a box of Betty Crocker vanilla cake mix. Instead of crushed pineapple with the cake mix, I used applesauce. I called my creation Mini Cherry Pies. Filled to the brim with cherry pie filling, these mini pies were extremely gooey and moist inside. Even a day later, they still smelled like warm vanilla cake that just came out of the oven. Make your own mini pie with whatever kind of filling you'd like. This is the easiest recipe ever! Here's how:

1 box vanilla cake mix8 oz. unsweetened applesauce1 8 oz. can cherry pie filling (or apple, peach, blueberry...whatever you prefer!)Preheat your oven to desired temperature per the baking instructions on the box of cake mix. 

In a bowl or stand mixer, stir the cake mix and applesauce on medium until well combined. Pour the batter into cupcake liners 1/3 of the way. Place a spoonful of pie filling on top of the batter and spread evenly. Pour more of the batter over the filling, completely covering it. Bake for the time specified on the box. 

I know it'll be really hard not to stuff your face with these babies right when they come out of the oven, but please let them cool before you dig it. I promise, they are worth the wait!