Delicious Mini Apple Pies for Quick and Easy Dessert

© Original recipe by Golden Whisk Co. ©

🍎🧁 Delicious Mini Apple Pies for Quick and Easy Dessert

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a warm, flaky, and perfectly sweet treat that can be whipped up in no time, these Mini Apple Pies are just what you need. Compact and irresistibly flavorful, these apple hand pies combine tender, cinnamon-spiced apple filling with golden, buttery crusts. Not only are they a delightful quick apple dessert, but their portable size makes them perfect for snacking, picnics, or a cozy evening indulgence. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe guarantees a batch of irresistible mini pies in under 30 minutes.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 30 minutes – Perfect for last-minute sweet cravings
• One-bowl and minimal mess – Great for busy days or novice bakers
• Portable and fun to eat – Ideal for picnics, snacks, or school lunches
• Versatile – Easily customize with your favorite add-ins, like nuts or caramel

3. Ingredient Notes

While the ingredient list for mini apple pies is simple, choosing quality ingredients makes a big difference. For the apples, varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp add sweetness and crispness that holds up during baking. Opt for unsalted butter to give the crust a rich flavor, and use a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg to elevate the apple filling’s aroma. Fresh ginger can add a zesty tang, while a splash of vanilla extract imparts warmth and depth.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To make these mini apple pies effortlessly, having the right tools is essential. The Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer is perfect for baking mini pies without turning on your oven, ensuring even baking and crispy crusts. A high-quality T-fal 14-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set makes rolling out and handling the crust a breeze. For mixing and preparing fillings, the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer helps blend ingredients thoroughly and effortlessly.

5. How to Make Mini Apple Pies

Prepare the Filling

Start by peeling and dicing your apples into small, even pieces. In a bowl, combine them with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a teaspoon of lemon juice. Toss everything together until evenly coated. The aroma of warm spices and sweet apples will already begin to fill your kitchen.

Roll Out the Crust

Using a floured surface, roll out your pie dough until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Use a cookie cutter or a glass to cut out small circles—about 4-5 inches in diameter. The flaky, buttery crust will be the perfect vehicle for the sweet, tender apple filling.

Fill and Seal

Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle. Gently fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges together to seal. For extra security, crimp the edges with a fork. Place the filled mini pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a silicone baking mold for easy handling.

Baking

Preheat your air fryer or conventional oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops with an egg wash for golden perfection. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the crust is crispy and golden brown, and the filling is bubbling. Your kitchen will smell like a gentle cinnamon orchard—a true sign of a perfect batch.

6. Expert Tips for Success

• Keep the dough cold to ensure flaky layers—chill it for 30 minutes if it gets too soft.
• Use a fork to crimp the edges to prevent filling from leaking out during baking.
• If using fresh apples, toss them with a teaspoon of cornstarch to thicken the filling as it bakes.
• For an extra crispy crust, brush with butter or egg wash before baking.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you’re gluten-free, swap traditional pie crust for a prepared gluten-free dough or use a thin layer of crushed graham crackers. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine. Add-ins like chopped walnuts or caramel bits can enhance texture and flavor. Not a fan of cinnamon? A dash of pumpkin pie spice or a sprinkle of brown sugar can change things up.

8. Storage & Reheating

Store leftover mini apple pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To enjoy later, reheat in your Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo or oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, until warm and crispy again. For best results, reheat only individual pies to keep crust crisp.

9. FAQ

Can I make these apple hand pies ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the pies and freeze them unbaked. When ready to serve, bake directly from frozen at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbling.

What apples are best for mini apple pies?

Crunchy, sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji work well, but Granny Smith apples add a tart contrast to the sweetness.

Can I bake these in a traditional oven?

Absolutely! Simply preheat your oven to 375°F and bake on a lined baking sheet for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Are these mini apple pies suitable for kids?

Yes! They’re perfectly sized for little hands, making them a delightful treat for kids and adults alike. Plus, you can control the sugar level to suit dietary needs.

10. Conclusion

These delicious mini apple pies are a quick, satisfying dessert that combines flaky crusts with warm, spiced apple filling. They’re perfect for busy weeknights, holiday desserts, or anytime sweet cravings hit. With simple ingredients and easy techniques, you’ll be making these charming apple hand pies in no time—delighting everyone at the table. Happy baking!

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