When you think of comfort food, what pops into your head? For me, it’s the aroma of warm Mini Apple Pies wafting through the air. Sweet, buttery crusts hugging tender apples spiced with cinnamon make my heart flutter. Just thinking about them makes me want to find a cozy chair and dive into a pie!
These delightful little treats are not only scrumptious but also evoke memories of family gatherings. Picture this: a chilly autumn day, laughter filling the room as everyone eagerly grabs their mini apple pies fresh from the oven. The anticipation is palpable as that first bite reveals a burst of apple goodness—pure bliss!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Mini Apple Pies are quick to prepare and bake in under 30 minutes
- Their delightful flavor profile perfectly balances sweetness and spice, making them irresistible
- Each pie is a visual masterpiece, perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself
- They are versatile enough to serve at parties or cozy nights in front of the TV
I remember the first time I made these Mini Apple Pies for my friends; their faces lit up like kids on Christmas morning when they took that first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Pre-made Pie Crusts: Use store-bought for convenience or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous and have the time.
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Apples: Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor.
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Cinnamon: This warm spice adds that cozy flavor we all love in apple desserts.
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Brown Sugar: It gives a deeper sweetness compared to white sugar, enhancing the overall taste.
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Lemon Juice: A splash brightens up the flavors and keeps apples from browning too quickly.
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Egg Wash: A simple mixture of egg and water helps achieve that golden-brown crust.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab your favorite baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to keep those mini pies from sticking.
Prepare Your Apples: Peel, core, and slice your apples into thin wedges. Combine them with brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and a dash of salt in a large bowl until well-coated.
Roll Out Pie Crusts: Unroll your pre-made pie crusts on a floured surface. Use a cookie cutter or glass to cut circles about 4 inches wide. You can also use your fingers to pinch off small pieces if you prefer rustic shapes.
Fill Your Mini Pies: Spoon about one tablespoon of the apple mixture onto half of each circle. Fold over the crusts and crimp edges with a fork to seal in all that deliciousness.
Apply Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together an egg with a splash of water. Brush this mixture over the tops of each pie for that gorgeous golden finish.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place your mini pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until they turn beautifully golden brown. The smell will be so enticing you might have trouble waiting!
These Mini Apple Pies will fill your kitchen with warmth and happiness as they bake. Serve them warm with vanilla ice cream or enjoy them on their own; either way, you’ll be glad you made them!
You Must Know
- Mini apple pies are not only adorable but also a delightful way to enjoy dessert
- The sweet aroma of baked apples fills your kitchen, making it impossible to resist these little treats
- Perfect for parties or cozy family evenings, they’re a hit every time!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you prepare the filling. Roll out the dough and fill your mini pie tins, then bake until golden brown, ensuring even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the apples for pears or add cinnamon and nutmeg for extra warmth. A scoop of ice cream on top never hurts either!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover mini apple pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warm.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly flaky crusts, chill your dough before rolling it out
- Avoid overfilling the pies to prevent spillage during baking
- Use fresh apples for a crisp texture that holds its shape beautifully
Reflecting back, I remember making these mini apple pies for my niece’s birthday party. The joy on her face as she took the first bite was priceless.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought pie crust for mini apple pies?
Absolutely! Store-bought crust saves time and works well for this recipe.
What types of apples are best for mini apple pies?
Firmer varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp provide the best texture and flavor.
Can I freeze mini apple pies?
Yes, freeze them before baking, then bake from frozen when ready to enjoy!
Mini Apple Pies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 8 mini apple pies 1x
Description
Mini apple pies are the ultimate comfort food, combining a flaky crust with sweet, spiced apples for a delightful treat. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home, these individual pastries are quick to prepare and bake in under 30 minutes. Each bite delivers a nostalgic blend of flavors that will warm your heart and fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Ingredients
- 1 package pre-made pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 3 cups Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice until well-coated.
- Roll out pie crusts on a floured surface and cut into 4-inch circles.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the apple mixture onto half of each circle. Fold over and crimp edges to seal.
- Whisk the egg with a splash of water and brush it over the tops of the pies.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini pie (70g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
