Mini Apple Pie Recipe: A Delightful Dessert Made with Love
Guide or Summary:IngredientsInstructionsEnjoying Your Mini Apple PiesEmbark on a culinary journey to the heart of comforting desserts with our irresistible……
Guide or Summary:
Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of comforting desserts with our irresistible mini apple pie recipe. Crafted with the finest ingredients and a touch of magic, these mini pies are a testament to the art of baking, perfect for any gathering or simply as a treat for yourself. Each bite is a harmonious blend of warm, flaky crust encasing tender, spiced apples, a delightful contrast of textures that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water
- 4 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for egg wash)
Instructions
1. **Preparing the Pie Crust:**
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough; it should be just enough to hold together.
- Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disk. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This will allow the dough to firm up, making it easier to roll out.
2. **Making the Filling:**
- While the dough is chilling, prepare the apple filling. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Mix well to coat the apples evenly with the spices and lemon juice, which helps prevent browning.
3. **Rolling Out the Dough:**
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. Roll out each disk of dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles of dough, each about 4 inches in diameter. This will be the top crust for the mini pies.
4. **Assembling the Pies:**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease the cups.
- Spoon a generous amount of the apple filling into each muffin cup. Place a dough circle on top of each filling mound, pressing gently to seal the edges. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges decoratively if desired.
5. **Egg Wash and Baking:**
- In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Brush the egg wash over the tops of the pies, creating a golden, shiny finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crusts are golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoying Your Mini Apple Pies
Serve these mini apple pies warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. They make the perfect bite-sized dessert for any occasion, whether it's a cozy family gathering, a festive holiday party, or a simple treat for yourself. The combination of the flaky, buttery crust and the warm, spiced apples is a match made in heaven, and these mini apple pies are sure to become a beloved favorite in your repertoire of delicious desserts.
Remember, baking is not just about following a recipe; it's about creating something special that brings joy and satisfaction. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the magic of baking mini apple pies begin!