Oh, the aroma of warm apples and spices wafting through the air! These Mini Apple Pies take me straight back to crisp autumn afternoons, where laughter fills the kitchen as we gather around the table, relishing in the cherished traditions of family. Each little pie is like a cozy hug in dessert form, a delightful treat that captures the essence of home.
Why make this recipe?
Creating these Mini Apple Pies is more than just baking; it’s about cultivating memories and joy in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging on a quiet evening, these little delights are perfect for sharing and savoring. Plus, who can resist that flaky crust encasing tender, spiced apples? It’s a classic dessert with a personal touch that brings love into the kitchen.
How to make Mini Apple Pies
Ingredients:
- 2 Apples (medium-sized, peeled, cored, and diced)
- ⅓ cup Brown Sugar
- 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
- ¼ tsp Ground Nutmeg
- ¼ tsp Allspice
- ¼ tsp Ground Ginger
- Pinch of Salt
- 1 tbsp Unsalted Butter
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1 tbsp Cornstarch Slurry (to thicken)
- 1 Package of Premade Pie Dough (contains 2 crusts)
- All-purpose Flour (for dusting)
- 1 Beaten Egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp Milk, Cream, or Water (for egg wash)
- Additional Coarse Brown Sugar (for sprinkling)
Directions:
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Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, and all the spices – let the sweet aroma dance around your kitchen! Cook until the apples start to soften, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract and the cornstarch slurry, and cook for another 2 minutes until thickened. Set aside to cool slightly.
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Assembly: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your pie dough on a lightly floured surface. Using a round cutter (about 4 inches in diameter), cut out circles from the dough. Place a spoonful of the apple filling in the center of each round. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal them tightly.
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Baking: Arrange the mini pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. In a small bowl, combine the beaten egg with milk, and brush the mixture over the tops of each pie. For a delightful finish, sprinkle the tops with coarse brown sugar. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and flaky.
How to serve Mini Apple Pies
Serve these delightful little pies warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for that extra touch of decadence. They’re perfect as an after-dinner treat or even as a sweet breakfast on those chilly weekends when you want to indulge.
How to store Mini Apple Pies
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you wish to freeze them, place the pies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag and enjoy them within two months.
Tips to make Mini Apple Pies
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of lemon juice to the filling – it brightens up the taste beautifully!
- Ensure your apples maintain some texture; Granny Smiths or Honeycrisps work wonders for a balanced sweet-tart flavor.
- Don’t rush the crimping; it’s not only about sealing the filling in but creates an adorable rustic charm.
Variations
Feel free to mix in other fruits like pears or even cranberries for a seasonal twist. You could also experiment with different spices – cardamom can add an interesting depth, or try adding a splash of apple cider for extra moisture and flavor!
FAQs
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Can I use homemade pie crust instead of premade?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite pie crust recipe, feel free to use it. Just ensure it’s chilled for easy handling. -
What apples are best for this recipe?
A mix of tart (like Granny Smith) and sweet apples (like Fuji or Gala) will create a lovely balance in flavor. -
Can I make these pies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them ahead and store them in the fridge for a day before baking or freeze them before baking – just add an extra few minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the freezer.
These Mini Apple Pies are not just a recipe; they’re a ticket to nostalgia, a way to share love and warmth. So gather your loved ones, embrace the mess, and cherish every bite of these delightful creations. Every mini pie tells a story waiting to be savored!
Mini Apple Pies
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the diced apples, brown sugar, and all the spices.
- Cook until the apples start to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and the cornstarch slurry, and cook for another 2 minutes until thickened.
- Set aside to cool slightly.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out your pie dough on a lightly floured surface.
- Using a round cutter (about 4 inches in diameter), cut out circles from the dough.
- Place a spoonful of the apple filling in the center of each round.
- Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal them tightly.
- Arrange the mini pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, combine the beaten egg with milk, and brush the mixture over the tops of each pie.
- Sprinkle the tops with coarse brown sugar.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and flaky.