Make Mini Pies Using Jar Lids

Mini pies are a genius baking project for kids. All you need is canning lids and some basic pie ingredients, and you’ll be ready to create as many different flavors as you want. Mini pies are perfect for families who can’t decide on a single pie flavor. Plus they’re easy for kids to do all on their own, from start to finish.

Mini Pies would make a perfect project to do as part of our Independence Kit. Here’s what you need to know:

Supplies

• Lids
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pie crust
• Pie filling
• Egg wash (egg and water)
• Sugar
• Knife
• Fork

Step 1: Prep your lids. 

Clean your lids well. Then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The classic canning jar top with a separate ring and lid is perfect for this project because it allows you to “pop” the mini pies out when they’re done. You can also use recycled lids from store-bought jars, but just make sure the lids are deep enough.

Step 2: Get your pie crust ready.

Roll out your pie crust, either store-bought or homemade. Then use the jar ring to trace a circle on the pie crust. For the bottom of your mini pies, you’ll want to cut a circle larger than the ring. The ring for the top can be the exact size of the ring. Cut out as many tops and bottoms as you have planned for pies.

Step 3: Put your mini pies together.

Put the larger circle of pie crust in first and press down. Add your favorite filling, either from a can or homemade. On your smaller circle (the top), cut small slits into the top. Press and seal with a bit of water on top of your pie. Use a fork to add a decorative edge and get rid of any excess crust. Then brush egg wash onto the mini pies and sprinkle with sugar. Repeat, making as many mini pies as you’d like.

Step 4: Bake the mini pies.

Bake the pies at 350° for 25 minutes. Once you’ve brought them out of the oven and they’ve cooled, you should be able to “pop” them right out by pushing the lid up through the ring.

This project is perfect for kids, whether they want to make a couple of mini pies or more than a dozen. You might also want to check out our mug cake project and recipe. Check out our video to help walk you through this project.