Mini Apple Pies
Indulge in the comforting sweetness of mini apple pies that capture the essence of autumn in every bite. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these delightful pastries feature tender apples, warm spices, and a flaky crust. Whether served warm or at room temperature, they are sure to please everyone. Enjoy the combination of flavors and textures in this easy-to-follow recipe that will become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water
- 3 cups apples, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 12 mini apple pies. Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, with a cooking time of 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 mini pie) contains approximately 210 calories, 8g fat, 34g carbohydrates, 2g protein, and 12g sugar. These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
- Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into circles.
- Press dough circles into a muffin tin to form pie shells.
- Fill each shell with apple mixture and cover with another dough circle.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg and make slits for steam.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour. You can also substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index option. For added flavor, try incorporating nutmeg or ginger in the apple filling.
Serving and Pairings
Mini apple pies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They make a delightful addition to any dessert table and are perfect for serving at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
Storage and Reheating
Store mini apple pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overworking the dough can lead to tough crusts.
- Not chilling the dough may result in shrinking during baking.
- Skipping the egg wash can lead to pale pies.
- Using too much filling can cause overflow.
- Not preheating the oven may affect baking time.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for best flavor.
- Chill your ingredients for a flakier crust.
- Experiment with spices for a unique twist.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a decorative touch.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! Store-bought pie crust can save time and still yield delicious mini pies. Just follow the same assembly instructions.
What type of apples are best for baking?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are excellent choices for baking due to their balance of sweetness and tartness, which enhances the flavor of the pie.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
To prevent a soggy crust, consider pre-baking the shells for a few minutes. You can also sprinkle a little flour or cornstarch on the bottom before adding the filling.
Can I make these mini pies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pies in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Bake them just before serving for optimal freshness.
How do I know when they are done baking?
The pies are done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Conclusion
Mini apple pies are a delightful treat that brings the warmth of home baking to your table. Their charming size and comforting flavors make them perfect for sharing. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, these pies are sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
Mini Apple Pies
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water
- 3 cups apples peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
- Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into circles.
- Press dough circles into a muffin tin to form pie shells.
- Fill each shell with apple mixture and cover with another dough circle.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg and make slits for steam.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
