These Apple Pie Bites are a fun twist on the classic dessert! Filled with warm, spiced apples and wrapped in a flaky crust, they are just perfect for snacking.
Who can resist that yummy apple filling? I love serving them with a scoop of ice cream—it’s like mini pies that fit right in your hand. 🥧🍎
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith apples offer a nice tartness, while Fuji apples are sweeter. You can mix different varieties for added flavor. If you want a less sweet filling, try using tart apples exclusively.
Granulated Sugar: This is used to sweeten the filling. If you’re looking for a healthier option, substitute half with honey or maple syrup. Just reduce the quantity slightly since these are sweeter.
Cinnamon: A staple for apple desserts, it adds warmth. You can also explore other spices like allspice or cardamom for a different twist! My personal favorite is adding a pinch of ginger.
Crescent Roll Dough: This is convenient, but you can use puff pastry for a flakier bite. If you’re avoiding gluten, look for gluten-free dough options available in stores.
How Do I Ensure My Apple Filling is Just Right?
The best apple filling balances sweetness with a hint of spice. Follow these tips for fantastic results:
- Cook apples until just tender. Don’t overcook or they’ll turn mushy.
- Add lemon juice to brighten the flavor and prevent browning.
- Taste your apples after cooking and adjust sugar to your preference. If they seem tart, a bit more sugar can bring them into balance.
Getting that filling just right makes all the difference in your Apple Pie Bites!
Apple Pie Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 2 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for sprinkling
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Dough:
- 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough or puff pastry sheets
- Optional: 1 egg, beaten (for an egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes of prep time and 15-18 minutes of baking time. So in total, you’re looking at approximately 40 minutes before you get to enjoy these delightful bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin. This will help prevent sticking and make it easier to take out your bites once they’re done.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, add the diced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if you’re using it), and lemon juice. Cook this mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring it occasionally, until the apples soften and smell amazing. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it cool a bit.
3. Prepare the Dough:
While your apple mix cools, unroll the crescent roll dough and slice each triangle into smaller squares, aiming for about 2×2 inches. Each piece will become the little cups holding the apple filling!
4. Form the Cups:
Gently press each dough square into the mini muffin tin cups, making sure to form a nice little cup shape. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; they will look great once baked!
5. Fill the Cups:
Spoon a small amount of the cooled apple filling into each dough cup. Make sure not to overfill them; just a spoonful is usually perfect.
6. Egg Wash for Shine:
If you want your Apple Pie Bites to have a lovely golden color, brush the exposed edges of the dough with beaten egg. This step is optional, but really makes a difference!
7. Bake:
Put your muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the dough becomes golden brown and thoroughly cooked. Your kitchen will smell wonderful!
8. Sweeten the Finish:
Once baked, take the muffin tin out of the oven and sprinkle the tops with a bit more granulated sugar for a sweet crunchy finish.
9. Cool and Serve:
Allow the bites to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before carefully removing them. They can be served warm and are delightful with a scoop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream!
Enjoy your delicious Apple Pie Bites, perfect for sharing (or not!) and filled with all the cozy flavors of classic apple pie!
Can I Use Other Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Fuji are great choices, you can experiment with other apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Braeburn for different flavor profiles. Just aim for apples that balance sweetness and tartness for the best filling.
How Do I Store Leftover Apple Pie Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through.
Can I Prepare the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the apple filling a day ahead! Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When you’re ready to assemble the bites, simply warm the filling slightly before spooning it into the dough cups.
What Can I Use Instead of Crescent Roll Dough?
If you want a flakier texture, you can substitute with puff pastry sheets. They make for a deliciously buttery bite! Just roll them out slightly to fit your mini muffin tin and follow the same assembly instructions.
