Caramel Apple Mini Pies Recipe

If you adore everything about fall flavors wrapped up in a perfectly portioned treat, then this Caramel Apple Mini Pies Recipe is going to become your new obsession. Imagine crisp, golden pastry shells filled with luscious, gooey caramel apple filling that hits all the right notes of sweet and tart. These adorable mini pies are perfect for gatherings, cozy afternoons, or just satisfying your sweet tooth without going overboard. This recipe turns simple pantry staples into a delightful little dessert that feels just like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Caramel Apple Mini Pies Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture—from the buttery pie crust that crisps up beautifully, to the rich caramel apple pie filling that’s bursting with apple goodness. These straightforward ingredients make assembling these bites of joy easy and stress-free.

• 1 (21 oz) can Caramel Apple Pie Filling: This is the star of the show, delivering sweet, tender apples coated in luscious caramel sauce to fill your pies with heavenly flavor.
• 1 package refrigerated pie crust (2 rolled crusts total): Pre-made crusts save time and ensure each mini pie has a perfectly flaky, golden shell.
• 1 large egg + 1 teaspoon water (egg wash): Brushed on the crust for a gorgeous, shiny finish and beautiful golden color once baked.
• 2 tablespoons sanding sugar (for sprinkling): Adds a sparkly, sweet crunch on top that’s absolutely irresistible.

How to Make Caramel Apple Mini Pies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Workstation

Start by preheating your oven and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper so your mini pies will bake evenly and be easy to transfer once golden. Have your ingredients ready, especially the refrigerated pie crust to keep it cold and easy to handle.

Step 2: Cut and Shape the Pie Crust

Unroll your pie crust dough and, using a round cutter or a glass, cut out even circles—these will be the base for your mini pies. Don’t worry if the edges aren’t perfect; the charm is in the homemade look!

Step 3: Fill the Pies

Place a spoonful of caramel apple pie filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill so that the filling won’t spill out while baking. Each bite should deliver a perfect balance of crust and sweet filling.

Step 4: Top and Seal

Cut additional smaller circles or shapes for the tops of your mini pies. Place them gently over the filling and use your fingers or a fork to press and seal the edges, ensuring none of the caramel apple goodness escapes during baking. If using shapes, consider fun designs like leaves or hearts to personalize.

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash and Sugar

Whisk together the egg and water, then brush a thin layer of this mixture over the tops of your pies. Immediately sprinkle with sanding sugar for that extra sparkle and crunch after baking.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place your baking sheet in the oven and bake until your mini pies are beautifully golden and bubbling, typically around 15-20 minutes. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point will be enough to make your mouth water!

How to Serve Caramel Apple Mini Pies Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, serve your Caramel Apple Mini Pies Recipe with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. A small scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side pairs wonderfully and elevates the dessert’s indulgence. Fresh mint leaves also add a surprising pop of color and a slight herbal twist that frames the sweet filling beautifully.

Side Dishes

These mini pies are wonderfully versatile—consider serving them with a warm cup of spiced cider or an intense black coffee for a comforting snack or dessert. If you’re hosting, place them alongside a cheese plate with mild cheeses like brie to add savory balance and sophistication to your dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Mini pie presentations can be as creative as you like! Arrange them on a rustic wooden board with autumn leaves for a cozy vibe or place each pie in individual mini tart pans or cupcake liners for grab-and-go elegance. They also look adorable stacked in a tiered dessert stand, making them the star attraction at your fall festivities.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any of these caramel apple mini pies leftover, simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping them covered will preserve that crisp pastry texture and prevent the filling from drying out.

Freezing

These mini pies freeze beautifully, so you can make a batch ahead of time. Freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer into a freezer-safe bag or container. When properly wrapped, they can last up to two months. This is a great way to have a convenient dessert that’s ready whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

To bring your Caramel Apple Mini Pies Recipe back to life, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This warms the filling and crisps the crust again, preserving that fresh-baked charm better than a microwave ever could.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! Homemade pie crust can add an extra layer of flavor and flakiness, but refrigerated crusts are convenient and work perfectly well for this recipe. Just make sure your homemade dough is chilled and rolled out evenly for best results.

Is it necessary to use sanding sugar on top? Can I skip it?

Sanding sugar adds a lovely sparkle and crunch that complements the soft pie filling beautifully. However, it’s optional. If you prefer a more rustic look, you can skip it or replace it with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a bit of warmth.

Can I make these mini pies vegan?

For a vegan twist, try using a dairy-free pie crust and substitute the egg wash with a mixture of plant-based milk and maple syrup. Just be sure your caramel apple filling is also vegan-friendly or make your own using dairy-free caramel sauce.

What size cutter should I use for these mini pies?

A cutter about 3 to 4 inches in diameter works wonderfully for these mini pies. It’s small enough to create charming individual servings but large enough to hold a good amount of filling.

Can I prepare the pies ahead and bake later?

Yes! You can assemble the pies and refrigerate them on the baking sheet, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to bring them back to room temperature before putting them in the oven so they cook evenly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about making and sharing a homemade dessert, and this Caramel Apple Mini Pies Recipe is the perfect way to bring warmth and sweetness to any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet moment with a cup of tea, these little pies are sure to spread smiles and create cozy memories. Go ahead, give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly these mini treats disappear!

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