Mini apple pies are a delightful twist on the classic apple pie, perfect for individual servings and easy to make.
These bite-sized treats are great for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy dessert at home.
They combine the sweet and tart flavors of apples with a flaky pie crust, offering a delicious and portable version of a beloved dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups chopped apples (peeled and cored, about 2 large apples)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Equipment
- 12-cup muffin pan
- Rolling pin
- 3½-inch cookie cutter
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl
- Pastry brush
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Let the mixture sit for about an hour to allow the apples to release their juices.
Roll out the first pie crust to about ⅛-inch thickness and cut out 12 circles using a 3½-inch cookie cutter.
Press each dough circle into the wells of a muffin pan, making sure they fit snugly.
Fill each dough-lined cup with about 2 tablespoons of the apple mixture. Dot the tops with small pieces of butter.
Roll out the second pie crust and cut into ½-inch-wide strips. Create a lattice pattern on top of each pie.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to make an egg wash. Brush the lattice tops with the egg wash.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the crusts are golden brown.
Let the mini pies cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Facts
- Servings: 12
- Calories: 200 kcal per serving
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Potassium: 70mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 12g
- Vitamin A: 200IU
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Calcium: 10mg
- Iron: 1mg
Health Benefits
Rich in Fiber: Apples are high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
Antioxidants: Apples contain antioxidants such as quercetin and vitamin C, which help protect the body from free radicals and boost the immune system.
Heart Health: The fiber, potassium, and vitamin C in apples contribute to cardiovascular health by helping to lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
Low in Fat: This recipe uses minimal butter, making it a lower-fat dessert option compared to many traditional pies.
Portion Control: Mini pies offer built-in portion control, making it easier to enjoy a sweet treat without overindulging.
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, you can use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor.
2. Should I peel the apples?
Yes, peeling the apples is recommended to avoid an unpleasant texture in the baked pies.
3. Can I make these pies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make mini apple pies a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container and reheat if desired.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover pies in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat them in the oven before serving for a warm treat.
5. Can I freeze mini apple pies?
Yes, you can freeze them. Wrap each pie in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.