Name: Mini Apple Pies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 apples, peeled and chopped into small cubes; 40g salted butter; 50g brown sugar; 1-2 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1/2 tsp cornflour; 3 tsp cold water; 2 sheets frozen shortcrust pastry, thawed; 1 egg, whisked for glazing

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If you adore the cozy flavors of apple desserts but want something perfectly portioned and irresistibly charming, this Mini Apple Pies Recipe is your new best friend. It combines tender cinnamon-spiced apple filling wrapped in flaky shortcrust pastry, baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, these mini pies capture all the warmth and comfort of a classic apple pie in a delightful, bite-sized form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Mini Apple Pies Recipe is simple but plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of texture, taste, and aroma—nothing fancy, just honest-to-goodness elements that come together to make magic.

2 apples, peeled and chopped: Use crisp apples for the best filling texture and sweetness.
40g salted butter: Adds richness and helps soften the apples with a buttery note.
50g brown sugar: Provides caramel-like sweetness and moisture.
1-2 tsp cinnamon: The warm spice that gives the filling its signature cozy flavor.
1/4 tsp nutmeg: A subtle hint of spice that deepens the apple’s natural flavor.
2 tbsp lemon juice: Balances sweetness and prevents apples from browning.
1/2 tsp cornflour: Used to thicken the filling so it holds nicely inside the pastry.
3 tsp cold water: Mixed with cornflour for a smooth slurry.
2 sheets frozen shortcrust pastry, thawed: The buttery, flaky shell that encases the filling.
1 egg, whisked for glazing: Gives the pies a shiny, golden-brown finish.

How to Make Mini Apple Pies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by combining your chopped apples with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Simmer the mixture gently over medium heat until the apples begin to soften but still hold some bite. Then, stir in a cornflour slurry made by mixing cornflour with cold water. This will thicken the filling beautifully, so it doesn’t run when baked. Remove from heat and let it cool completely before using.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pastry

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) so it’s ready to give your pies that perfect golden crust. While it heats, cut out nine rounds from one sheet of thawed shortcrust pastry using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass. From the second sheet, slice strips about 1.5cm wide to create the classic lattice tops that make these mini pies look simply irresistible.

Step 3: Assemble the Mini Pies

Place about a tablespoon of the cooled apple filling onto the center of each pastry round. Then, arrange two parallel pastry strips over the filling and place two more strips perpendicular to form a charming lattice pattern. Trim any excess pastry off the edges and use a fork to press and seal the edges, keeping all the delicious apple goodness safely inside.

Step 4: Bake the Mini Pies

Brush the assembled pies with the beaten egg to give them that enticing golden and glossy finish once baked. Pop them in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the pastry looks crisp and beautifully browned. The smell alone will have you reaching for one before they’re even out of the oven!

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the mini pies to cool for a little while to let the filling set, making them easier to handle and enjoy. You can serve them warm for a comforting treat or let them cool completely on a wire rack if you’re preparing ahead. Either way, you’re in for a delightful dessert or snack.

How to Serve Mini Apple Pies Recipe

Garnishes

A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with these mini pies, offering a cool contrast to the warm, spiced apple filling. For a little extra flair, sprinkle a touch of powdered sugar or a cinnamon dusting just before serving.

Side Dishes

Serve these mini pies alongside a fresh salad with tangy cranberries or a cheese board featuring sharp cheddar for an unexpected but delicious mix of flavors. They also shine on their own as a sweet finish to any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging your mini pies on a rustic wooden board with some autumn leaves for a seasonal vibe or serve them in individual mini pie tins for a charming, personalized touch. They also make wonderful gifts when packaged in pretty boxes or cellophane with ribbons.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover mini apple pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator if you want them to last a bit longer while maintaining freshness.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these treats later, freeze the cooled pies in a single layer on a tray before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They freeze wonderfully for up to two months and can be baked straight from frozen or thawed first.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the pies in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10-15 minutes until warm and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the pastry flaky rather than soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for this Mini Apple Pies Recipe?

Absolutely! While firmer apples like Granny Smith or Braeburn hold their shape well during cooking, mixing different apple varieties can add interesting layers of flavor and texture.

Is it possible to make these pies without cinnamon or nutmeg?

Yes, you can omit the spices, but they really enhance the classic apple pie taste. Alternatively, try adding a pinch of allspice or ginger for a different spice twist.

Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of frozen shortcrust pastry?

Yes, store-bought pie crust works perfectly if it matches shortcrust pastry in texture. Just make sure to thaw it fully before cutting and assembling your mini pies.

How many mini pies does this recipe make?

This recipe yields about nine mini apple pies, perfect for sharing or treating yourself over several days.

Can I replace the egg wash with something else for glazing?

Definitely! If you prefer not to use egg, melted butter or milk brushed on top can provide a lovely golden color and shine when baked.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Mini Apple Pies Recipe inspires you to create a cozy, sweet treat that delights everyone around your table. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or just craving a bit of homemade comfort, these mini pies are straightforward, satisfying, and truly special. Give them a try—you’ll be hooked from the very first warm, flaky bite!

Mini Apple Pies Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 22 reviews

Author: Hugo
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 9 mini pies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delight in these charming Mini Apple Pies, featuring a buttery, cinnamon-spiced apple filling encased in crisp shortcrust pastry with a classic lattice top. Perfectly portioned for snacking or dessert, these pies combine warm spices and tender apples baked to golden perfection.

Instructions

Prepare the Apple Filling: In a saucepan, combine the chopped apples, salted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Simmer over medium heat until the apples are mostly softened. Mix the cornflour with cold water to make a slurry. Pour the cornflour mixture into the simmering apples, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pastry: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Using a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass, cut out rounds from one sheet of the pastry (enough to make 9 pies). From the second sheet, cut out 1.5cm wide strips for the lattice tops.
Assemble the Mini Pies: Place about 1 tablespoon of the cooled apple filling in the center of each pastry round. Arrange two parallel strips of pastry over each filled round, then place two more strips perpendicular to form a lattice pattern. Trim any excess pastry from the edges and use a fork to press and seal the edges of the pies.
Bake the Mini Pies: Brush the tops of the pies with the whisked egg to give them a golden, glossy finish when baked. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
Cool and Serve: Allow the mini pies to cool slightly before serving, or let them cool completely on a wire rack if not serving immediately.

Notes

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for balanced sweetness and acidity.
Ensure the cornflour mixture is well stirred in to prevent lumps in the filling.
Freezing the pies before baking can help maintain the shape but is optional.
These pies can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen; reheat in the oven before serving.
For a vegan version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a plant-based milk wash instead of egg glaze.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American