Apple Pie Bites are delicious little treats that pack all the warm flavors of traditional apple pie into handy bites. They’re made with sweet apples, cinnamon, and a flaky crust that’s just right!
Honestly, these bites are perfect for snacking or dessert. I love popping them in the oven and filling the house with that yummy apple aroma. Who doesn’t love a warm treat? 🍏🥧
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Using a mix like Granny Smith and Gala combines tart and sweet flavors perfectly. If you can’t find these, feel free to substitute with Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a sweet bite.
Butter: Unsalted butter works best for controlling the salt levels. If you need a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Spices: Ground cinnamon and nutmeg are essential for that warm apple pie flavor. If you want to mix things up, try adding a pinch of allspice or cardamom for extra warmth.
Pie Crust: Store-bought crust saves time, but I enjoy making my own with flour and butter. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or a gluten-free pie crust available in stores.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Apple Mixture?
Cooking the apples first helps them soften and absorb the flavor of spices. Start by melting the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Then, simply add the chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Stir until the apples soften – this takes just about 5-7 minutes. Don’t skip this step, as it makes a big difference in flavor!
- Keep stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Cool the mixture slightly before filling the crusts to prevent sogginess.
How to Make Apple Pie Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith and Gala), peeled, cored, and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Crust:
- 1 prepared pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
For the Coating:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking the apple filling, then another 15-18 minutes baking, and a few more minutes for cooling. Perfect for a quick and delightful treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin to prevent the bites from sticking.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add in the chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the apples are tender and the mixture smells amazing. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before putting it in the crust.
3. Prepare the Pie Crust:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pie crust. Cut it into squares that are large enough to fit into your mini muffin cups, creating small cups when you press them in.
4. Assemble the Bites:
Place each dough square into a muffin cup and gently press them down to form a small cup. Then, spoon a small amount of the apple filling into each one, filling them almost to the top.
5. Egg Wash the Crust:
Brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg wash to give your bites a golden color when they bake.
6. Bake the Bites:
Pop the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. You want the crust to be golden brown and fully cooked—keep an eye on them!
7. Add the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
While the bites are baking, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl. This will give them a sweet, crunchy topping.
8. Finish and Cool:
Once the bites are done baking, carefully brush the tops with more of the beaten egg, then roll or sprinkle them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat. Let them cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before gently taking them out.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your delicious Apple Pie Bites warm or at room temperature. These little treats are bursting with flavor and are perfect for snacking or dessert!
Happy baking! 🍏🥧
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Gala are great for a sweet-tart balance, you can use other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter flavor. Just be sure to taste as you go, adjusting sugar if needed!
How Do I Store Leftover Apple Pie Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes for a warm, crispy crust.
Can I Freeze Apple Pie Bites?
Yes! Freeze the baked bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container once solid. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm them in the oven.
What If My Pie Crust Is Too Thick?
If the pie crust seems thick, you can easily roll it out a bit thinner before cutting it into squares. Just be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can make it tough. A thinner crust makes for a more delicate bite!
