Introduction
Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to whip up something sweet and delightful for your loved ones. These adorable mini apple pies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes! With a flaky, golden crust and a warm apple filling spiced with cinnamon, each bite is a hug in dessert form. Whether you’re celebrating with friends, family, or that special someone, these mini pies are sure to bring smiles and cozy feelings all around.
Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: Vanilla ice cream for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 mini pies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, lemon juice, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and flour. Toss until the apples are well coated, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through.
- Roll out the pie crusts on a floured surface and cut them into circles using a cookie cutter or a glass, about 4-5 inches in diameter.
- Place half of the circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they have enough space to puff up beautifully.
- Spoon a generous amount of the apple mixture onto the center of each circle on the baking sheet. Don’t skimp on the filling—more apples mean more love!
- Take another circle and place it on top of each filled circle. Seal the edges by pressing down with a fork or pinching them with your fingers to create a decorative edge.
- Brush the tops of the mini pies with the beaten egg to achieve a lovely golden finish.
- Using a sharp knife, cut small vents in the tops to allow steam to escape; this ensures a perfectly baked pie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the pies are golden brown and the aroma of baked apples and cinnamon fills your kitchen.
- Allow the mini pies to cool slightly before serving. For an extra special touch, enjoy them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to mix different types of apples for a flavor twist—Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji are all great choices.
- If you’d like a sweeter filling, adjust the sugar to your taste.
- For added texture, consider adding raisins or walnuts to the apple mixture.
Cooking Techniques
These mini apple pies can be made using basic pastry techniques. Making sure your pie crust is cold will ensure it bakes up flaky and delicious. When sealing the pie edges, you can use a fork for a classic look or create a crimped design with your fingers for a more rustic feel. Experiment with the apple filling by balancing sweet and tart flavors for the best taste!
FAQ
Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes! Store-bought pie crust is a great time-saver and will yield delicious results.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in a warm oven for a few minutes.
Conclusion
These mini apple pies are the ultimate way to express your love on Valentine’s Day or any day of the year! With their charming appearance and mouthwatering flavor, they capture the essence of warmth and comfort. Gather those you cherish, bake up a batch, and watch as they disappear in a flurry of smiles. Enjoy the sweet moments, and remember—love is best served with a side of pie!