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Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about the warmth and sweetness of mini apple pies. These delightful treats, perfect for sharing, are a true celebration of autumn flavors. With a buttery crust and a spiced apple filling, they’re a must-try for any dessert lover.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
- 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for apple filling)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 mini pies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups flour and salt. Add diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
- In another bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon flour. Set aside.
- Roll out one disk of dough to fit into the mini pie pans. Cut out circles and press them into the pans.
- Fill each crust with the apple mixture, dividing evenly among the pies.
- Roll out the second disk of dough and cut into strips or circles to create a lattice or cover for the pies.
- Place the top crust over the filling and pinch to seal edges. Make small slits for steam to escape.
- Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes or Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing different types of apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
- Serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- These pies can be made ahead and frozen before baking—simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you decide to bake them.
Cooking Techniques
Making these mini apple pies involves basic techniques like mixing, rolling, and baking. The key is to ensure your butter is cold to achieve a flaky crust and to not overwork the dough, keeping it tender.
FAQ
- Can I use store-bought pie crust? Yes, for a quicker option, use store-bought pie crust and follow the same assembly instructions.
- What other fruits can I use in these mini pies? Pears, blueberries, or a mix of your favorites can also work well.
Conclusion
These mini apple pies are more than just a dessert; they evoke warm memories and bring people together. Enjoy the process of making them, and savor each delightful bite with friends and family.
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