Mini Apple Pies Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing the cozy, comforting essence of apple pie in a perfectly portable treat, look no further! This Mini Apple Pies Recipe is exactly what you need to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress friends and family alike. Bite-sized yet bursting with tender cinnamon-spiced apple filling and golden, flaky crust, these mini pies are simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a casual afternoon snack, or a special treat just because, these adorable pies bring all the warmth and joy of traditional apple pie in a fun, easy-to-share format.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These classic ingredients come together beautifully to create the perfect balance of sweet, tender apples and buttery, flaky crust. Each plays an essential role in bringing out the nostalgic flavors and lovely textures that make this Mini Apple Pies Recipe so special.

• 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought): Provides the flaky, golden shell that holds all the delicious filling perfectly.
• 2 ½ cups chopped apples (315 grams): The star of the show—make sure to choose firm, tart apples for the best flavor and texture.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (50 grams): Sweetness to balance the tartness of the apples without overpowering.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (15 grams): Helps thicken the filling so it’s beautifully set, not runny.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm, aromatic spice that complements the apples perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: A subtle lift of flavor that enriches the overall taste.
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Just a pinch adds complexity and depth.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional): Little pats of butter melt into the filling as it bakes, giving richness and extra flavor.

How to Make Mini Apple Pies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Oven

Start by heating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking. This simple step makes rolling out your dough much easier and keeps things tidy.

Step 2: Roll and Cut the Pie Crusts

Roll out the pie crusts to about 1/8-inch thickness for that perfect balance between flaky and sturdy. Using a 3.5-inch cookie cutter or a cup, cut 12 circles. Don’t worry about scraps — just roll them back out to get all 12 circles.

Step 3: Fit the Dough into Muffin Pan

Press each dough circle gently into the cavities of a standard 12-count muffin pan, ensuring a snug fit that will beautifully hold the filling as it bakes. Pop the pan and any leftover crust back into the fridge while you make the filling.

Step 4: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, toss together the chopped apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and nutmeg until every piece is evenly coated. This mix is the heart of your mini pies, marrying sweet, tart, and spice in every bite.

Step 5: Fill the Pies

Take the muffin pan out of the fridge and spoon in about 3 tablespoons of apple filling per cup, distributing it evenly. This makes sure every mini pie has just the right amount of sweet, chunky goodness.

Step 6: Add Butter for Richness

If you’re using butter, dice it into 12 small pieces and nestle one on top of each filled pie for a luscious, buttery finish as it bakes.

Step 7: Decorate the Tops

Roll out your extra pie crust, cut out small shapes or lattice strips, and gently place them on top of each mini pie. This not only looks charming but adds even more buttery crust to savor.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for 18 to 23 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the crust turns a beautiful golden brown and the filling bubbles eagerly underneath.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and allow the pies to cool for 10-15 minutes in the pan before carefully lifting them out onto a wire rack to finish cooling. This step helps the filling set so each mini pie stays intact when you serve.

How to Serve Mini Apple Pies Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream takes these mini pies from delicious to absolutely decadent. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce also pairs wonderfully, adding that extra touch of indulgence.

Side Dishes

Serve these little gems alongside a hot cup of coffee or chai tea for an afternoon pick-me-up. For a dessert spread, pair with fresh berries or a simple salad with crisp greens and a light vinaigrette to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Place mini pies on a rustic wooden board with fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks to create a warm, inviting centerpiece. Wrap each mini pie in parchment paper tied with twine for a charming gift or party favor that friends will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any uneaten mini apple pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate to keep them fresh for up to 4 days. Reheat gently for that just-baked taste.

Freezing

If you want to prepare in advance, these mini pies freeze beautifully. Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat mini pies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crust crispy again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that flaky texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pie crust for this Mini Apple Pies Recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought crust is a convenient option and works perfectly. Just make sure to thaw it properly before rolling and cutting.

What type of apples work best for this recipe?

Firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith, Braeburn, or Honeycrisp hold their shape well during baking and provide a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.

Can I make these mini pies vegan?

Yes! Use a vegan pie crust and substitute the butter with a vegan alternative or simply omit it. The filling is naturally vegan-friendly.

How long do these mini apple pies keep fresh?

At room temperature, they’re best eaten within 2 days. Refrigerated, they stay fresh up to 4 days. For longer storage, freezing is the way to go.

Can I add other spices or ingredients to the filling?

Definitely! Feel free to add ground cloves, allspice, or even a splash of apple cider for extra flavor. Some chopped nuts like walnuts also add a delightful crunch.

Final Thoughts

This Mini Apple Pies Recipe is a heartwarming, crowd-pleasing treat that brings the classic flavors of apple pie into perfectly portioned, charming little packages. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a family snack, or just to fill your kitchen with that magical apple pie aroma, these mini pies never disappoint. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite dessert!

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