Mini Apple Pies
Indulge in the sweet aroma of freshly baked mini apple pies that are perfect for any occasion. These charming little desserts are not only visually appealing but also pack a punch of flavor with their buttery crust and spiced apple filling. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in, these mini treats will surely impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and get baking!
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 6-8 tbsp ice water
– 3 medium apples, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 6 mini apple pies. Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, and cooking time is around 25-30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each mini apple pie (1 serving) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 2g
– Fat: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fiber: 2g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add chilled butter and blend until crumbly.
4. Gradually add ice water until dough forms.
5. Wrap dough in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
6. Peel and dice apples, then toss with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
7. Roll out the dough and cut into circles for mini pie crusts.
8. Place dough circles into greased muffin tin.
9. Fill each crust with apple mixture.
10. Cover with another dough circle, sealing edges and cutting slits on top.
11. Brush with egg wash for a golden finish.
12. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a natural sweetener. For a vegan version, replace butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based egg substitute.
Serving and Pairings
These mini apple pies are delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of cinnamon or caramel sauce adds an extra touch of sweetness.
Storage and Reheating
Store mini apple pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to three months. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using warm butter instead of chilled can lead to a tough crust.
- Not chilling the dough enough may result in poor texture.
- Overfilling pies can cause spillage during baking.
- Skipping the egg wash can lead to dull-looking pies.
- Not preheating the oven may result in uneven baking.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of apples for varied flavor and texture.
- Let the pies cool completely before storing.
- Experiment with spices like ginger or allspice for added flavor.
- Use a pastry cutter for easier dough mixing.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes, store-bought pie crust can save time and still yield delicious results.
What type of apples are best for baking?
Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal for baking due to their balance of sweetness and tartness.
How do I prevent the crust from burning?
Cover the edges with aluminum foil if they brown too quickly during baking.
Can these pies be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and bake them just before serving.
What should I serve with mini apple pies?
Consider pairing them with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.
Conclusion
Mini apple pies are a delightful dessert that combines simplicity with flavor. Perfect for any occasion, these little treats are sure to please everyone. With their flaky crust and warm apple filling, they bring comfort and joy to the table. Enjoy baking and sharing them with loved ones!
Mini Apple Pies
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 6-8 tbsp ice water
- 3 medium apples peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add chilled butter and blend until crumbly.
- Gradually add ice water until dough forms.
- Wrap dough in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
- Peel and dice apples, then toss with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
- Roll out the dough and cut into circles for mini pie crusts.
- Place dough circles into greased muffin tin.
- Fill each crust with apple mixture.
- Cover with another dough circle, sealing edges and cutting slits on top.
- Brush with egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
