Apple Pie Bites are sweet little treats that pack all the deliciousness of a classic apple pie in a fun, bite-sized form. They’re made with flaky pastry and filled with warm, spiced apples.
These bites are perfect for sharing or sneaking a few on your own! I love making them with my kids—they’re so easy, and the best part is that they smell amazing while baking! 🍏🥧
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I like to use Granny Smith for a nice tartness, but Honeycrisp adds a great sweetness. You can also use any crisp apple variety, like Fuji or Braeburn, depending on your taste or what you have on hand.
Granulated Sugar: If you want to reduce sugar, you can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute. Just remember, this will change the flavor slightly, so consider what you prefer.
Cinnamon: This spice is essential for that apple pie flavor. You could also try pumpkin pie spice for a twist, or if you’re not a fan of cinnamon, just leave it out and add a touch of vanilla instead!
Pie Crust: While I love refrigerated pie crust for ease, you can use homemade pastry if you have time. Puff pastry works too, just roll it out a bit thinner for easier handling.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel is a delicious option, but you can enjoy the bites plain, dusted with powdered sugar instead. If you want a healthier option, try a yogurt sauce to balance the sweetness!
How Do I Ensure My Apple Pie Bites Are Golden Brown?
Getting a nice golden color on your Apple Pie Bites requires a few careful steps. The egg wash is key here—it helps give the crust that lovely shine and golden look.
- Make sure you brush enough beaten egg on the tops just before baking. This also helps to seal the edges for a better look.
- Keep an eye during baking time! If they start to brown too quickly, you can cover them lightly with foil for the last few minutes to prevent burning.
- Ovens can vary, so checking them a bit early can help. Look for that perfect golden color and bubble-filled apple filling.
How to Make Apple Pie Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 2 medium tart apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
For the Crust:
- 1 package (2 sheets) refrigerated pie crust or puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for topping)
For the Topping:
- Caramel sauce (for drizzle, optional)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful treat takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to bake. Make sure to allow for a little cooling time, and you’ll have these yummy bites ready to enjoy in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep the Muffin Tin:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that heats up, lightly grease a mini muffin tin to ensure your bites easily pop out when they’re done baking.
2. Make the Apple Filling:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and flour. Mix it all together, so the apples are evenly coated. The flour will help thicken the mixture as it bakes.
3. Prepare the Pie Crust:
Unroll the pie crust and cut it into small squares, about 2.5 inches in size. You’ll need one square for each mini muffin cup, so plan accordingly!
4. Form the Apple Pie Bites:
Gently press each dough square into the greased mini muffin tin cups to create little pastry cups. Then, spoon the apple mixture evenly into each cup, filling them about 3/4 full.
5. Add the Crust Top:
If you have extra dough, you can fold or lattice it over the apples for a lovely topping. Be sure to press down the edges gently to seal the bites well.
6. Brush and Sprinkle:
Brush the tops of each filled pie bite with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish. Then, sprinkle a little granulated sugar over the top for sweetness and texture.
7. Bake Time:
Place your muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the crust turns a lovely golden brown and the filling is bubbling inside.
8. Cooling and Serving:
Once baked, remove the bites from the oven and let them cool slightly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. Before serving, if you like, drizzle some caramel sauce on top and dust with powdered sugar for a final touch. These bites are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy your homemade Apple Pie Bites, perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a delightful snack anytime!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are excellent choices, you can use any variety of crisp apple. Fuji, Braeburn, or even a mix of sweet and tart apples can work well!
How Can I Store Leftover Apple Pie Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to eat them within a day. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a warm treat!
Can I Use Store-Bought Dough for the Crust?
Yes, using store-bought refrigerated pie crust or puff pastry saves time and is perfectly acceptable. Just ensure you roll it out if needed, and follow the recipe as usual.
What Can I Use Instead of Egg Wash?
If you prefer to skip the egg wash, you can use milk or cream brushed over the top for a nice golden color. For a vegan option, use a mixture of plant-based milk and a bit of maple syrup!