Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Muffin Tin Mini Apple Pies are a fun twist on traditional apple pie, offering all the warm, cinnamon-sugar goodness in an easy-to-serve, portable form. They are perfect for portion control, making them great for parties, picnics, or even just as a small indulgence. Plus, they’re simple to make, and the individual servings allow for personal customization. With their golden, flaky crust and tender apple filling, they’re an irresistible treat that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

1 package of refrigerated pie crusts
3 cups apples (peeled, cored, and chopped)
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon butter (cut into small pieces)
1 egg (for egg wash)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the pie crusts and use a round cutter (about 4 inches in diameter) to cut circles large enough to fit in a muffin tin. Press the dough into the muffin cups, making sure the edges are flush with the sides.
In a bowl, combine the chopped apples, sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Mix well.
Spoon the apple mixture into each muffin cup, filling them generously.
Dot the apple filling with small pieces of butter.
Cut strips of pie dough and create a lattice pattern over the top of each mini pie, or cover with a full piece of dough and make small slits for ventilation.
In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush it over the top of each mini pie for a golden, shiny finish.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 mini pies
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Spiced Apple: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice to the filling for an extra kick of flavor.
Caramel Apple: Drizzle caramel sauce over the filling before baking for a rich, sweet addition.
Berry Apple: Mix in some fresh or frozen berries (such as blueberries or raspberries) with the apples for a fruity twist.
Vegan: Use dairy-free butter and a plant-based egg substitute to make these mini pies vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover mini apple pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store them longer, place them in the refrigerator, where they’ll last for up to 5 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the pies on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated?

Yes, you can use homemade pie crust! Just make sure it’s chilled before cutting it into circles to fit the muffin tin.

2. Can I make these mini pies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pies and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Simply brush the egg wash on just before baking.

3. What apples are best for apple pie?

Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji apples are all great choices for their sweetness and texture when baked.

4. Can I freeze these mini pies?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Once assembled, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.

5. Can I use pre-made apple pie filling?

Yes, you can use canned apple pie filling if you’re short on time, but homemade filling tends to have a fresher flavor.

6. How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Make sure the muffin tin is properly greased, and don’t overfill the pies with filling. You can also prebake the crust for a few minutes before adding the filling.

7. Can I make these mini pies gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free pie crust and make sure the cornstarch and other ingredients are gluten-free.

8. How can I make these pies extra sweet?

Add an extra tablespoon of sugar or drizzle them with honey or caramel syrup before serving.

9. Can I use frozen apples for the filling?

While fresh apples are ideal, you can use frozen apples if thawed and drained, although they may release more moisture during baking.

10. How do I know when the pies are done baking?

The pies are done when the crust is golden brown, and the filling is bubbling up through the lattice or slits in the crust.

Conclusion

These Muffin Tin Mini Apple Pies are a delightful, individual-sized treat that brings all the flavors of a classic apple pie into a convenient and fun serving. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a dessert that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether for a special occasion or just a cozy dessert at home, these mini apple pies are sure to be a hit!