Mini Apple Pies

Mini apple pies baked to perfection, featuring a golden crust and sweet apple filling.

Mini Apple Pies: A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about mini apple pies. Reminiscent of cozy family gatherings and bustling kitchens, these little hand-held delights are a testament to the comfort of homemade goodness. Imagine biting into a warm, flaky crust that cradles tender, cinnamon-spiced apples, releasing sweet aromas that waft through the air. It’s a small indulgence that evokes memories of crisp autumn days and the joy of sharing treats with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, enjoying a quiet morning at home, or simply needing a comforting snack, mini apple pies are a perfect choice.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes (includes chilling time)
  • Servings: 12 mini pies
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fat: 7g

Why Make This Recipe

Mini apple pies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the senses. Their flaky crust gives way to a sweet, spiced filling that will make the kitchen smell divine. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make and can be enjoyed warm from the oven or cooled for later. These pies are perfect for any occasion: serve them at holiday dinners, enjoy a warm pie with your morning coffee, or share them with friends during an afternoon get-together.

How to Make Mini Apple Pies

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
  • 3 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup sugar (for filling)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for filling)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

Optional Ingredients and Substitutions:

  • Chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
  • Use whole wheat flour for a healthier option
  • Swap out sugar for your favorite sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Then, cut in the diced butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  3. Stir in enough ice water to form a dough. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

  4. In another bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, and flour until evenly coated.

  5. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and cut into circles (about 5 inches in diameter).

  6. Fill each circle with the apple mixture, fold over the dough, and seal the edges by crimping with a fork.

  7. Place the mini pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with egg wash.

  8. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Baking Tips:

  • Don’t overmix the dough to keep it flaky.
  • Test for doneness; the crust should be golden, and the filling should be bubbling slightly.

How to Serve

These mini apple pies are delicious plain, but why not elevate the experience? Serve them warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also pair beautifully with a steaming cup of chai or an aromatic coffee. For a sweet twist, try drizzling with honey or maple syrup.

How to Store

To keep your mini apple pies fresh:

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerator: They can last up to a week in the fridge.
  • Freezer: Freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil.

Expert Tips

  • Best Apple Types: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a more complex flavor.
  • Spice Blends: Experiment with nutmeg or allspice to add depth to your filling.
  • Testing Doneness: Look for an even golden color and listen for a gentle bubbling sound from the filling.

Delicious Variations

  • Vegan Version: Substitute butter with coconut oil and brush with a plant-based milk wash.
  • Gluten-Free Swap: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
  • Cinnamon Swirl: Add a layer of cinnamon sugar in the crust for an extra kick of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use other fruits?
    Yes! Pears and berries can also make delicious fillings; just adjust the sugar as needed.

  • Why is it dry/dense?
    Often it’s due to overmixing the dough or not enough water. Aim for a crumbly texture that holds together when pressed.

  • What can I do with leftovers?
    Pair leftover mini pies with yogurt for breakfast or crumble them over ice cream for dessert.

  • Can I use frozen ingredients?
    Yes, frozen apples can be used, just ensure they are sufficiently thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

Conclusion

So there you have it—mini apple pies that warm the heart and fill the belly. They are a culinary hug that transports you to cozy kitchens and laughter-filled gatherings with every bite. I encourage you to try making them this season—it’s a journey worth taking! Don’t forget to share your thoughts, variations, or joyful moments when you whip up this delightful recipe. Happy baking!

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Mini Apple Pies


Description

Delightful hand-held treats filled with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples, perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
  • 3 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup sugar (for filling)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for filling)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the diced butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Stir in enough ice water to form a dough. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  4. In another bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, and flour until evenly coated.
  5. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and cut into circles (about 5 inches in diameter).
  6. Fill each circle with the apple mixture, fold over the dough, and seal the edges by crimping with a fork.
  7. Place the mini pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with egg wash.
  8. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Notes

Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 pie
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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