Introduction
There’s something truly special about sharing homemade treats with loved ones, especially on Valentine’s Day. These delightful mini apple pies are perfect for any occasion, but they hold a particularly sweet spot for celebrating love. Bursting with juicy apples, warm cinnamon, and encased in buttery, flaky crusts, they’ll make your heart skip a beat! Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a cozy get-together with friends, these mini pies are not just adorable, but they also deliver a mouthful of happiness in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced apples (peeled and cored)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (usually 2 crusts)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dusting)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 mini pies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your pies will bake up golden and crisp!
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. Give it a gentle stir and let the mixture sit for a few minutes to meld those wonderful flavors together.
- On a floured surface, roll out one of the pie crusts. Use a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out circles that will fit into mini pie molds or a muffin tin.
- Carefully place the circles into the molds, fitting them snugly to form little crust pockets.
- Fill each crust with the fragrant apple mixture, being careful not to overfill to avoid any messy overflow.
- Roll out the second pie crust and cut out smaller circles or heart shapes to place on top of each filled pie.
- Seal the edges by crimping them with a fork or pinching them gently with your fingers, creating that classic pie look.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and milk. Brush this mixture over the top of each mini pie for that irresistible golden finish.
- Carefully place the filled molds in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is beautifully golden brown and the apples are bubbly and soft.
- Remove the mini pies from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature—each bite is a little piece of heaven!
Notes or Tips
- For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the apple filling.
- These mini pies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. Just warm them in the oven before serving!
- If you’re feeling creative, decorate the tops with fun designs by cutting shapes out of the crust, or sprinkle with coarse sugar for an extra crunch.
Cooking Techniques
Rolling out pie crusts can sometimes be tricky, but the key is to keep your surface lightly floured to prevent sticking. If the crusts become too warm and difficult to work with, chill them in the refrigerator for a few minutes before rolling. Also, sealing the edges well helps keep all that delicious filling inside, so don’t skip that step! And remember, the more evenly you roll out your pie crusts, the more uniformly they will bake, giving you that perfect golden-brown finish.
FAQ
Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Yes, frozen apples can work in a pinch! Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your pies.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage — just ensure they’re wrapped tightly!
Can I substitute the pie crust?
Absolutely! If you prefer a homemade crust or a different type of dough, such as puff pastry or even cookie dough, feel free to experiment!
Conclusion
These mini apple pies are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re a celebration of warmth, love, and the joy of sharing delicious food with those we care about. Perfect for Valentine’s Day or any day you want to spread a little happiness, these bites of joy will surely become a cherished favorite in your home. Happy baking, and enjoy every scrumptious moment!