Irresistible Mini Apple Pies Recipe

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these irresistible Mini Apple Pies! Perfect for when you crave the taste of homemade apple pie but without the fuss, these individual delights are a true crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender cinnamon-spiced apples nestled in flaky pie crust and adorned with charming lattice tops makes these mini apple pies as delightful to look at as they are to eat.

I stumbled upon this Mini Apple Pies recipe a few years back when my craving for apple pie collided with my lack of time for a full-sized baking project. Since then, these mini wonders have become a staple at gatherings, always disappearing within minutes and leaving everyone craving for more. The secret lies in the details – from brushing the crust with an egg wash for that perfect golden finish to using just the right combination of spices to elevate the flavors. Trust me; once you try these Mini Apple Pies, they’ll become your go-to dessert for every occasion!

Quick Benefits

• Easy to make individual portions of homemade apple pie without the stress of a full-sized pie
• Perfect for gatherings and parties as they are quick to disappear and always a hit
• Elevates presentation with charming lattice tops while maintaining the traditional apple pie taste
• Feasible for busy weeknights with store-bought crust, making them suitable for special occasions or random desserts

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Mini Apple Pies Recipe Recipe

• Easy and convenient: Provides all the satisfaction of homemade apple pie without the stress of making a full-sized pie, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Adorable presentation: The charming mini size and intricate lattice tops make these pies visually appealing and delightful to serve at parties and events.
• Crowd-pleaser: A proven hit at gatherings, these mini apple pies disappear quickly and leave guests asking for more, making them a favorite dessert choice.
• Shortcut tips: The recipe includes time-saving techniques like using store-bought crust and creating lattice tops for a stunning presentation without the need for professional pastry skills.
• Perfect flavor balance: The combination of cinnamon-spiced apples, flaky pie crust, and a touch of nutmeg and vanilla creates a delicious handheld version of classic apple pie, sure to please any palate.
• Versatile and reliable: Whether for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or casual weeknight desserts, these mini apple pies are a go-to recipe that consistently impresses and brings joy to those who try them.

Ingredients for Irresistible Mini Apple Pies Recipe

• 1 tablespoon water
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup light brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 3 cups chopped apples (about 4 medium Granny Smith apples)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 refrigerated pie crusts
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Sanding sugar for topping (optional)

How to Make Irresistible Mini Apple Pies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and prep

Preheat oven to 425°F. Lightly coat a standard 12-cup muffin pan with cooking spray.

Step 2: Make egg wash

In a small bowl, whisk the egg and water together using a fork. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare apple filling

Peel, core, and dice the apples into quarter-inch cubes. Place in a medium bowl. Add vanilla, flour, both sugars, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until apples are coated. Set aside.

Step 4: Cut and shape crusts

Unroll pie crusts and cut out 12 circles using a 4-inch round cookie cutter. Gently press each circle into a muffin cup.

Step 5: Brush and fill

Brush the bottom of each crust with egg wash, then divide the apple mixture evenly among the cups.

Step 6: Make lattice tops

Roll out leftover pie crust scraps and cut into strips less than a quarter inch wide. Make each strip slightly longer than the muffin cups. Weave 6 strips into a lattice pattern on top of each pie, trimming any excess and pressing the edges to seal.

Step 7: Bake

Brush lattice tops with egg wash, sprinkle with sanding sugar if desired, and bake for 20-25 minutes until crust is lightly golden and filling is bubbling.

Step 8: Cool and serve

Allow the pies to cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes. Carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. If needed, use a thin knife to loosen the edges. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Storage Tips

After baking a batch of mini apple pies, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain their freshness and flavor. Once the pies have completely cooled to room temperature, place them in an airtight container or store them on a plate covered tightly with plastic wrap. Avoid leaving the pies out at room temperature for an extended period, as this can lead to them becoming stale or losing their texture.

For longer-term storage, you can refrigerate the mini apple pies. Simply place them in an airtight container or wrap them securely with plastic wrap before putting them in the refrigerator. Properly stored, these mini apple pies can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy, you can reheat the pies in the microwave for a quick warm-up or in the oven at a low temperature to crisp up the crust again.

If you need to store the mini apple pies for an extended period, they can be frozen. Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or airtight bag. Frozen mini apple pies can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To enjoy them from frozen, let the pies thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven to freshen up the crust. By following these storage tips, you can enjoy these delightful mini apple pies whenever you’re craving a taste of fall.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have Granny Smith apples, you can use other firm and tart varieties like Honeycrisp or Braeburn as suitable substitutes. These apples will hold their shape well and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness in the filling. Avoid using softer apples like Red Delicious or McIntosh, as they can become too mushy when baked.

For a vegan option, you can substitute the egg wash with a plant-based milk like almond or soy milk. Simply brush the tops of the pies with the milk before baking to achieve a golden color. Additionally, if you prefer a different sweetener, you can replace the granulated sugar and light brown sugar with alternatives like maple syrup or honey, adjusting the amount to taste. This can add a different depth of flavor to the pies while still providing sweetness to complement the apples.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try serving these mini apple pies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The contrast of the hot, flaky pie with the cold, creamy ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience that will have your guests coming back for seconds. To take it up a notch, drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.

Another fun idea is to create a mini apple pie bar at your next gathering. Set out a variety of toppings such as whipped cream, chopped nuts, and caramel drizzle, allowing guests to customize their pies to their liking. This interactive dessert station not only adds a playful element to your event but also lets everyone personalize their mini pies for a memorable and delicious experience.

FAQs for Irresistible Mini Apple Pies Recipe

Can I use a different type of apple for these mini apple pies?

Yes, Granny Smith apples are the recommended choice for their firm texture and tart flavor. However, you can also use apples like Honeycrisp or Braeburn as suitable substitutes. It’s best to avoid soft apples like Red Delicious or McIntosh, as they tend to turn mushy when baked.

Do I have to make the lattice tops for these mini apple pies?

While you can opt for a simpler design by just placing circles of dough over the top with a few fork holes for venting, creating lattice tops does elevate the presentation of the mini apple pies. The lattice tops add about 15 extra minutes to the process but make a significant difference in appearance, making the pies look stunning and more appealing.

What’s the purpose of brushing the bottom crust with egg wash?

Brushing the bottom crust with egg wash before adding the filling creates a barrier that helps prevent the crust from getting soggy due to the moisture released by the apples during baking. This step ensures that the bottom crust stays flaky and delicious.

Can I make these mini apple pies ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these mini apple pies ahead of time. Once baked, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Before serving, you can warm them in the oven at a low temperature to refresh the crust if desired.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Mini Apple Pies brings as much joy and delight to your family and friends as it has for mine. The mini apple pies may be small in size, but they certainly pack a flavorful punch with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking to treat yourself to a delicious dessert, these individual pies are sure to impress and satisfy any sweet cravings. The beauty of these pies lies not only in their taste but also in the memories and moments they create when shared with loved ones.

So, why not give these Mini Apple Pies a try and experience the magic of homemade desserts without the hassle? With their charming lattice tops and scrumptious apple filling, these little treats are bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Embrace the simplicity and joy of creating these mini masterpieces, and watch as they disappear within moments of being served. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with the sweet aromas of freshly baked Mini Apple Pies!

Irresistible Mini Apple Pies Recipe

Mini Apple Pies: Bite-sized delights with flaky crusts and cinnamon-spiced apples, perfect for quick baking projects and guaranteed to disappear at any gathering.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time60 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time80 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings12 Servings (12 mini pies)

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon water
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup light brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 3 cups chopped apples (about 4 medium Granny Smith apples)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 refrigerated pie crusts
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Sanding sugar for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat and prep: Preheat oven to 425°F. Lightly coat a standard 12-cup muffin pan with cooking spray.
2. Make egg wash: In a small bowl, whisk the egg and water together using a fork. Set aside.
3. Prepare apple filling: Peel, core, and dice the apples into quarter-inch cubes. Place in a medium bowl. Add vanilla, flour, both sugars, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until apples are coated. Set aside.
4. Cut and shape crusts: Unroll pie crusts and cut out 12 circles using a 4-inch round cookie cutter. Gently press each circle into a muffin cup.
5. Brush and fill: Brush the bottom of each crust with egg wash, then divide the apple mixture evenly among the cups.
6. Make lattice tops: Roll out leftover pie crust scraps and cut into strips less than a quarter inch wide. Make each strip slightly longer than the muffin cups. Weave 6 strips into a lattice pattern on top of each pie, trimming any excess and pressing the edges to seal.
7. Bake: Brush lattice tops with egg wash, sprinkle with sanding sugar if desired, and bake for 20-25 minutes until crust is lightly golden and filling is bubbling.
8. Cool and serve: Allow the pies to cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes. Carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. If needed, use a thin knife to loosen the edges. Serve warm or at room temperature.