Introduction
There’s something undeniably heartwarming about the scent of freshly baked mini apple pies wafting through the home. These delightful little treats are perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or simply indulging yourself. With a buttery crust and a sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling, they truly are a keeper!
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 package refrigerated pie pastry (or homemade pie crust)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (for serving, optional)
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 the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and flour. Toss until apples are well coated.
- Roll out the pie pastry on a lightly floured surface and use a round cutter to cut out circles that fit your mini pie pans.
- Place the pastry circles in the bottom of the mini pie pans and fill each with the apple mixture.
- Cut smaller circles or strips from the remaining pastry to use as a lattice top or decorative crust to cover the pies.
- Brush the top of the pies with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to mix different types of apples for a more complex flavor.
- Make the pie crust from scratch for a personal touch, or use store-bought for convenience.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Techniques
To achieve the best results, make sure to roll out your pie pastry evenly. Using a round cutter will help ensure uniformity in the mini pies. Furthermore, allowing the filling to sit after mixing will enhance the flavors as the apples release some of their juices.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen apples? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
- How should I store the mini pies? They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Can I freeze these pies? Absolutely! Freeze before baking; when ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
These mini apple pies are not just a delightful dessert; they also evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these little pies will surely delight everyone who tries them. Enjoy the comfort of home baking with each delicious bite!