These Mini Apple Pies are a delightful, bite-sized version of the classic American dessert. Featuring warm, cinnamon-spiced apple filling and a buttery, flaky crust, they’re baked to golden perfection in a muffin tin for easy handling and presentation. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, prepping lunchbox treats, or simply craving something cozy, these mini pies deliver all the nostalgic flavor of traditional apple pie in a charming, personal-sized format.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Mini apple pies are easy to assemble, crowd-pleasing, and perfectly portioned. The filling is full of comforting cinnamon and nutmeg notes, while the crust bakes up crisp and golden. They’re ideal for parties and holidays, make excellent make-ahead desserts, and are incredibly versatile—you can dress them up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy them warm right out of the tin.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 sheet pie crust dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 medium apples, peeled and finely diced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, for egg wash
- Optional: coarse sugar for topping
Directions
- Preheat Oven & Prep Tin:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a standard muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup to prevent sticking. - Make the Filling:
In a bowl, combine the finely diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and flour.
Toss until apples are evenly coated and the mixture is slightly thickened. - Cut and Shape the Dough:
Roll out the pie crust on a lightly floured surface.
Use a 3.5–4 inch round cutter to cut circles large enough to press into the muffin cups.
Gently press each dough circle into a muffin cup, pressing up the sides. - Fill the Pies:
Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of apple filling into each crust-lined cup, filling nearly to the top. - Top the Pies:
Cut the remaining pie dough into thin strips and create a lattice pattern over each pie, or cut out smaller circles and place on top, slitting the center for steam.
Press edges to seal gently. - Egg Wash & Sugar:
Beat the egg and brush over the tops of each mini pie.
Sprinkle with coarse sugar for extra crunch and shine, if desired. - Bake:
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
Let cool slightly in the pan before serving.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 8 mini pies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Calories per serving: Approximately 210 kcal
Variations
- Caramel Apple: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce to the filling or over the top before baking.
- Maple Twist: Substitute part of the sugar with maple syrup for a deeper autumn flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Add finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling.
- Spiced Pear: Swap apples for pears and use the same spice blend for a different fruit base.
- Glazed Finish: Brush cooled pies with a simple powdered sugar glaze for a bakery-style finish.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store cooled mini pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave briefly to serve warm.
Freezing: Freeze baked mini pies tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pie dough?
Yes, store-bought dough works perfectly and saves time, though homemade dough adds a rustic, buttery flavor.
What type of apples should I use?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith work best, but you can mix in sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp for balance.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for a softer texture, but leaving the skins on adds a rustic look and some extra fiber.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, bake a day ahead and store covered. Reheat just before serving for the best texture.
Can I use puff pastry instead of pie dough?
You can, but expect a flakier, lighter result—still delicious, just different in texture.
How do I prevent soggy bottoms?
Be sure to dice the apples finely and avoid overfilling. Baking at the correct temperature also helps the crust crisp up properly.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free pie crust and ensure all ingredients (especially flour) are certified gluten-free.
Can I use silicone muffin pans?
Yes, they release easily, but place the silicone mold on a baking sheet for support when transferring in and out of the oven.
Are these freezer-friendly?
Yes, they freeze well after baking. Let them cool completely, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just use two muffin tins or bake in batches.
Conclusion
Mini Apple Pies are the ultimate cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert that packs all the flavor of a classic apple pie into a fun, handheld size. With their flaky crust, warm cinnamon-spiced filling, and rustic charm, they’re a perfect addition to holiday spreads, weekend baking, or even casual snacking. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy—these mini pies are a bite-sized celebration of everything you love about fall baking.
PrintMini Apple Pies
These Mini Apple Pies with Cinnamon Filling are the perfect handheld treat — packed with tender cinnamon-spiced apples and wrapped in a golden, flaky crust. Whether for parties, holiday trays, or a cozy weekend bake, these individual pies bring all the comfort of a classic apple pie in bite-sized form.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 mini pies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
-
1 sheet pie crust dough (store-bought or homemade)
-
2 medium apples, peeled and finely diced
-
2 tbsp granulated sugar
-
1 tbsp brown sugar
-
1/2 tsp cinnamon
-
1/8 tsp nutmeg
-
1 tsp lemon juice
-
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
-
1 egg (for egg wash)
-
Optional: coarse sugar for topping
Instructions
-
Preheat Oven:
Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with liners or lightly grease each cup. -
Make the Filling:
In a bowl, combine diced apples, granulated and brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and flour. Toss until evenly coated. -
Prepare the Crust:
Roll out pie dough and cut into 3.5–4 inch circles. Press each into the muffin tin cups to form mini crusts. -
Fill the Pies:
Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of apple filling into each crust. -
Add the Top Crust:
Use remaining dough to cut thin strips for a lattice, or cover each with a smaller circle and slit the top for steam. -
Finish & Bake:
Brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar if using.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until crust is golden and filling is bubbly. -
Cool & Serve:
Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or room temperature.
Notes
-
For extra flavor, add a dash of vanilla or a touch of caramel sauce.
-
These can be made ahead and reheated in the oven.
-
Great for school lunches, potlucks, or holiday dessert platters.