Apple Crisp Bites

Indulge in the delightful taste of fall with these Apple Crisp Bites. They combine tender apples, a hint of cinnamon, and a crunchy crumble topping, all nestled in flaky phyllo pastry shells. Perfect for a quick dessert or a cozy gathering!

Ingredients

• 2 cups peeled and diced apples
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup oats
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
• Mini phyllo pastry shells (store-bought)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the mini phyllo pastry shells on a baking sheet.
2. In a bowl, toss the diced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice until evenly coated.
3. In another bowl, mix the flour, oats, and brown sugar. Add the cold butter and use a fork to cut it in until the mixture is crumbly.
4. Spoon the apple mixture into the mini phyllo shells, then sprinkle the crumble topping over each one.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 12-15 bites, depending on shell size

Variations

• Spiced Apples: Add nutmeg or allspice to the apple mixture for extra warmth.
• Nutty Topping: Mix chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the crumble topping for added texture.
• Dried Fruits: Incorporate raisins or cranberries into the apple mixture for a chewy contrast.
• Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the bites just before serving for an indulgent twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep any leftover Apple Crisp Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen apples?
   Yes, frozen apples can be used; just thaw and drain any excess liquid before using.
2. What type of apples are best for this recipe?
   Tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp work well.
3. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
   Yes, the apple filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
4. Can I substitute the phyllo shells?
   Yes, you can use pre-made tart shells or even make your own pie crust.
5. How can I make these bites gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free flour and oats to make the recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.
6. What if I don’t have lemon juice?
   You can substitute lemon juice with apple cider vinegar or omit it entirely, though it helps balance the sweetness.
7. Can I add more toppings?
   Absolutely! You can top these with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
8. What if I don’t have oats?
   You can replace oats with additional flour or use crushed nuts for a different texture.
9. How do I prevent the phyllo from getting soggy?
   Ensure the apple mixture isn’t too watery before filling the phyllo shells.
10. Are these bites suitable for freezing?
    Yes, you can freeze the baked bites; just ensure they are stored in an airtight container. Thaw before reheating.

Conclusion

Apple Crisp Bites are a delightful and easy dessert that captures the essence of autumn in each flaky, crispy bite. With endless variations and simple preparation, these treats are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy the warm flavors of cinnamon and apple, and make these bites a staple in your dessert repertoire!

Print