Name: Mini Caramel Apple Pies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 3 medium apples).; 1/2 cup granulated sugar.; 1/4 cup packed brown sugar.; 1 tsp ground cinnamon.; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg.; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour.; 1 tbsp lemon juice.; 1/2 cup caramel sauce.; 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade if preferred).; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash).; 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for sprinkling).

Mini Caramel Apple Pies are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that captures the flavors of fall in every bite. With a flaky pie crust, a sweet and spiced apple filling, and a drizzle of rich caramel sauce, these mini pies are perfect for any autumn occasion. The small size makes them ideal for parties, gatherings, or even a special treat for yourself. Whether you enjoy them warm from the oven or at room temperature, these mini caramel apple pies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and bring a touch of autumn to your table.

These Mini Caramel Apple Pies are the perfect way to enjoy the classic flavors of apple pie in a fun, bite-sized form. With a buttery, flaky pie crust and a filling of sweet, spiced apples and rich caramel sauce, these mini pies are a delicious treat for any fall occasion. The individual portions make them ideal for sharing at parties or gatherings, and they’re just as good enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Whether you’re serving them as a dessert for a special occasion or just indulging in a cozy treat at home, these mini caramel apple pies are sure to impress.

INGREDIENTS

Apples: 3 cups, peeled, cored, and diced, the star of the filling, providing a sweet and tart flavor.
Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup, sweetens the apple filling and balances the tartness of the apples.
Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup, adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the filling.
Ground Cinnamon: 1 tsp, adds warmth and spice to the filling, enhancing the flavor of the apples.
Ground Nutmeg: 1/4 tsp, adds a hint of spice that complements the cinnamon.
All-Purpose Flour: 2 tbsp, thickens the filling to prevent it from becoming too runny.
Lemon Juice: 1 tbsp, adds a touch of acidity that brightens the flavor of the apples.
Caramel Sauce: 1/2 cup, drizzled over the filling to add a rich, sweet caramel flavor.
Pie Crusts: 1 package refrigerated (or homemade if preferred), forms the base and top of each mini pie, creating a flaky, buttery crust.
Egg: 1, beaten, used as an egg wash to give the crust a golden, shiny finish.
Granulated Sugar: 1 tbsp, sprinkled over the top of the pies for added sweetness and texture.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: In a medium bowl, combine diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and lemon juice. Stir until apples are well-coated. Set aside.
Step 2:: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 3:: Roll out the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cutter (about 3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
Step 4:: Press each pie crust circle into the cups of a muffin tin, forming a small cup shape.
Step 5:: Spoon the apple mixture into each crust, filling about 3/4 full.
Step 6:: Top each mini pie with a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Step 7:: Place a second pie crust circle on top, or cut out decorative shapes to place over the filling.
Step 8:: Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
Step 9:: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Step 10:: Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 11:: Enjoy these delightful Mini Caramel Apple Pies warm or at room temperature!

Serving and Storage Tips

These mini pies are best served warm, straight from the oven, but they’re also delicious at room temperature.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.
These pies can also be frozen before baking. Simply assemble the pies, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Helpful Notes

For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the apple filling.
If you prefer a more pronounced caramel flavor, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the pies after baking.
If using homemade pie crust, make sure it’s chilled before rolling it out to prevent the dough from becoming too soft.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Tip: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor balance in the filling.
Chef Tip: To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, pre-bake the bottom crusts for 5 minutes before adding the filling.
Chef Tip: If you don’t have a round cutter, use a glass or a jar lid to cut out the pie crust circles.

Perfect for Fall Gatherings

These Mini Caramel Apple Pies are the perfect dessert for fall gatherings, from family dinners to holiday celebrations. Their individual size makes them easy to serve and enjoy, and their rich, spiced apple filling combined with sweet caramel sauce captures all the best flavors of the season. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. Whether you’re making them for a party or just to satisfy your own sweet tooth, these mini pies are sure to be a hit.

FAQs

Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Yes, homemade caramel sauce works great in this recipe. Just make sure it’s slightly thickened so it doesn’t run too much during baking.

How do I keep the pie crusts from shrinking during baking?

Make sure the pie crusts are well-chilled before baking, and avoid stretching the dough too much when pressing it into the muffin tin.

Can I use store-bought pie filling?

Yes, you can use store-bought apple pie filling for a quicker option, but the homemade filling adds a fresher flavor.

How do I make the crust extra flaky?

For an extra flaky crust, use a high-fat butter and make sure it’s cold when mixing the dough. Avoid overworking the dough, as this can make it tough.

Can I make these pies in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the pies in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes them a convenient option for entertaining.

Summary

Savor the flavors of fall with these Mini Caramel Apple Pies. With a buttery, flaky crust and a filling of spiced apples and caramel, these mini pies are the perfect dessert for any autumn occasion. Easy to make and full of flavor, they are sure to become a seasonal favorite. Whether you're baking for a family gathering, a party, or just because, these mini caramel apple pies are a delightful way to enjoy the classic taste of apple pie in a fun, portable form.