Mini Apple Pies in Muffin Tin Recipe | Easy Homemade Dessert

Baking is an art that blends creativity with comfort, and few desserts capture that feeling better than apple pies.

Traditional apple pies are iconic, but their smaller cousins are equally delightful. Mini apple pies in muffin tin bring the warmth of freshly baked fruit and buttery crust to a convenient bite size form. They are perfect for gatherings, afternoon snacks, or simply satisfying a sweet craving with minimal fuss. Each mini pie offers the perfect balance of crisp pastry and tender spiced apples.

Ingredients Needed

To make mini apple pies in muffin tin, gather the following ingredients. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and flakiness.

Ingredient	Quantity	Approximate Calories per Serving
All-purpose flour	2 cups	455
Unsalted butter	1 cup	814
Granulated sugar	1/2 cup	387
Brown sugar	1/4 cup	108
Ground cinnamon	1 teaspoon	6
Ground nutmeg	1/4 teaspoon	3
Salt	1/4 teaspoon	0
Large eggs	1	70
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon	12
Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)	3 medium	225
Lemon juice	1 tablespoon	4
Milk or cream	2 tablespoons	40
Powdered sugar (optional for topping)	1 tablespoon	30

Selecting the right apples is essential. Firm and slightly tart varieties such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape during baking and offer a refreshing contrast to the sweet crust. Butter should be cold to create a tender, flaky texture in the crust. Freshly grated cinnamon enhances flavor far better than pre-mixed spice blends.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat Oven
   Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure the oven rack is in the middle position for even baking.
2. Prepare Muffin Tin
   Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray. You can also use paper liners for easy cleanup, although the crust may stick slightly to the paper.
3. Make Pie Dough
   In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg and vanilla extract gradually, mixing until the dough holds together. Divide the dough in half, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 20 minutes to firm up.
4. Prepare Apple Filling
   Peel, core, and dice the apples into small cubes. In a medium bowl, toss the apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Ensure all pieces are evenly coated for a consistent flavor.
5. Assemble Mini Pies
   Roll out one portion of the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut the dough into circles slightly larger than the muffin tin wells. Press the dough circles into the muffin cups to form a base. Spoon the apple filling evenly into each cup. Roll the second portion of dough and cut into circles to cover the pies. Press the edges gently to seal, leaving room for steam to escape.Another classic you shouldn’t miss is Mini Apple Pie Recipe which complements this dish well.
6. Brush and Bake
   Lightly brush the tops of each mini pie with milk or cream to promote golden browning. Use a sharp knife to make small slits on the top for ventilation. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
7. Cool and Serve
   Allow the mini apple pies to cool in the muffin tin for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm for the best experience.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Mini apple pies in muffin tin are versatile and allow for numerous customizations. Swap Granny Smith apples for Fuji or Gala for a sweeter, softer bite. Incorporate raisins, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries into the filling for added texture. For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of bourbon or maple syrup to the apple mixture. Experiment with spices by including ground ginger or allspice in addition to cinnamon and nutmeg. You can also create a lattice top by cutting thin strips of dough and weaving them across the pies. For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free blend, though additional chilling time may be necessary to prevent the dough from becoming too sticky. Mini pies freeze well; wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Reheat in the oven to restore the crispiness of the crust.

Nutritional Information

Each mini apple pie provides a satisfying treat with moderate calorie content. Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient substitutions. Approximate values per serving are:

The pies are rich in flavor but manageable in portion size. Using less sugar or opting for low-fat butter can slightly reduce calorie content without compromising taste.

Serving Suggestions

Mini apple pies in muffin tin are delightful on their own or paired with complementary flavors. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. For breakfast, they pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or hot tea. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the top before baking for added sweetness and a light crunch. Individual pies make excellent party favors or picnic treats, as they are portable and do not require cutting. Drizzle caramel sauce over the pies or sprinkle with crushed nuts for an elegant presentation. These small pies also work well alongside savory dishes at holiday meals, offering a sweet contrast to roasted meats and vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Yes, but thaw them and drain excess liquid to prevent soggy crusts.

How long can mini pies be stored?
Store at room temperature for up to two days in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to five days.

Can I make these vegan?
Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and replace the egg with a flax or chia egg.

Is it possible to make them ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the pies and freeze before baking. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What is the best apple variety for these pies?
Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples hold their shape and provide the ideal balance of sweet and tart flavors.

Conclusion

Mini apple pies in muffin tin are a timeless dessert transformed into a convenient, visually appealing, and irresistible treat. They capture the essence of traditional apple pie while offering individual servings that are perfect for any occasion. The combination of flaky crust, tender spiced apples, and optional toppings makes them versatile and customizable. Baking these pies fills the kitchen with warmth and invites joyful anticipation for the first bite.