Step into a world where the classic apple pie is reimagined into delightful, bite-sized treats that promise to captivate your taste buds and steal the show at any gathering. These gourmet mini apple pies merge the heartwarming blend of cinnamon and apple with the flaky, butter-rich embrace of puff pastry, all finished with a unique maple syrup glaze for a beautifully golden crust. This easy-to-follow recipe transforms simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary, combining the comfort of home-baked goods with a touch of elegance.
Why You'll Love This:
What sets these mini apple pies apart is not just their irresistible flavor and texture but also the simplicity and versatility of the recipe. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe ensures success every time, allowing for customization with different apple varieties or syrup alternatives. The maple glaze offers a novel twist on the traditional, adding a subtle richness that elevates the overall taste.
Perfect Occasion:
These mini pies are a perfect fit for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to elegant parties. They're especially suited for festive seasons, making a wonderful addition to holiday tables or as thoughtful homemade gifts that exude personal charm and gourmet flair.
Decoration Tips:
Enhance your mini apple pies with a few simple touches. A sprinkle of coarse sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup before baking adds texture and shine. For serving, a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a scoop of ice cream makes these pies even more indulgent. Consider garnishing with a thin apple slice or a mint leaf for a fresh, decorative finish.
Apple Filling Ingredients:
- 1 medium apple (such as cosmic, honeycrisp, or granny smith), peeled, cored, and finely chopped, then mixed with lemon juice to prevent browning
- 30g (about 2 tablespoons) light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 30g (about 2 tablespoons) butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch dissolved in 2 teaspoons water
- 1 sheet puff pastry or homemade pie dough
Pie Crust Dough:
- 250g (about 2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 20g (about 1 tablespoon) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 162g (about 3/4 cup) cold butter, cut into cubes (use non-dairy butter for a vegan option)
- 10g (about 1 tablespoon) unsweetened plain almond milk yogurt (or your choice of yogurt)
- 50ml (about 1/4 cup) iced water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Apple Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped apple, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Cook until the apples are slightly softened, about 7-8 minutes. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and bring to a brief boil. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.
- Assemble the Pies: Roll out your dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut out 12 circles, approximately 3 inches wide. Place a spoonful of apple filling onto six of the circles, leaving a border around the edge. Moisten the edges with milk, then top with the remaining dough circles. Press the edges with a fork to seal and cut small slits on top for steam to escape. Brush each pie with maple syrup and optionally sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the mini pies for 15-17 minutes or until golden brown.
Enjoy these exquisite mini apple pies, a testament to how a few simple tweaks can transform a classic dessert into an extraordinary treat.