Apple Pie Tassies are delightful, bite-sized tartlets that encapsulate all the cozy flavors of a traditional apple pie. Featuring a buttery, flaky crust and a spiced apple filling, these miniature pies are perfect for gatherings, dessert tables, or simply as an indulgent snack. With just the right touch of cinnamon and nutmeg, each tassie delivers a comforting bite of autumn in pastry form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Apple Pie Tassies combine the elegance of tartlets with the heartwarming flavors of apple pie. Their small size makes them ideal for sharing, portion control, and festive occasions. The cream cheese in the crust adds an extra level of tenderness and flavor, while the spiced apple filling brings familiar warmth. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a party, or just because, these tassies are easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely diced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of ground nutmeg
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice

directions

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and well combined.
Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to chill.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin pan.
In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, melted butter, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Mix until the apples are well coated.
Divide the chilled dough into 24 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and press it into a mini muffin cup, forming a tart shell.
Spoon the prepared apple filling into each tart shell, filling nearly to the top.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the crusts are golden and the filling is bubbling.
Let the tassies cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Servings: 24 tassies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: 185 kcal per tassie

Variations

Caramel Apple Tassies: Drizzle the filling with caramel sauce before baking for a richer flavor.
Pecan Apple Tassies: Add finely chopped pecans to the apple mixture for a nutty crunch.
Maple-Spiced Filling: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup and add a pinch of allspice.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Vegan Option: Substitute butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives.

storage/reheating

Store apple pie tassies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may soften the crust.

FAQs

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, the dough can be made up to 2 days ahead and kept chilled in the refrigerator until ready to use.

What are tassies?

Tassies are small tartlets, typically made in a mini muffin pan, and filled with sweet or savory mixtures.

Can I freeze apple pie tassies?

Yes, cool them completely and freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What apples are best for tassies?

Firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well as they hold their shape during baking.

Can I use store-bought pie crust?

This recipe uses a cream cheese-based dough for a tart shell, but store-bought pie dough can be adapted if preferred.

How do I prevent soggy bottoms?

Make sure the apples are finely diced and well mixed with cornstarch to help thicken the filling as it bakes.

Do I need to pre-bake the crust?

No pre-baking is needed; the crust bakes through perfectly in the muffin pan with the filling inside.

Can I use canned apple pie filling?

Yes, though fresh apple filling offers better texture and flavor, canned filling is a convenient alternative.

Can I add raisins or dried cranberries?

Yes, a tablespoon or two of raisins or dried cranberries adds a nice touch of sweetness and texture.

Are these good for holiday gifting?

Absolutely. Their small size and festive appearance make them an excellent homemade gift during the holiday season.

Conclusion

Apple Pie Tassies are a delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of apple pie in a convenient, miniature form. Their tender, buttery crust and warmly spiced apple filling make them a favorite among guests and family alike. Simple to prepare and perfect for sharing, these tassies are a go-to choice for entertaining, gifting, or indulging in a cozy homemade treat.