Mini Cinnamon Apple Pies with Crumble Topping

Enjoy warm Mini Cinnamon Apple Pies with Crumble Topping that are perfectly spiced, flaky, and ideal for any cozy dessert craving. These delightful little pies boast tender apples infused with cinnamon and nutmeg, enveloped in buttery crusts, and crowned with a crunchy, sweet crumble. Whether it’s a family gathering, a festive occasion, or simply a treat to brighten your afternoon, these mini pies are sure to win hearts with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Portion Size: Mini pies are perfect for individual servings, so everyone gets their own warm, delicious treat.
• Flaky, Buttery Crust: The crust melts effortlessly on your tongue, balancing the tender apple filling brilliantly.
• Crunchy Crumble Topping: The crumbly top adds texture and sweetness, taking this dessert to the next level.
• Simple Ingredients: Using everyday pantry staples means this recipe is accessible and quick for weeknight baking.
• Cozy, Homey Flavors: The warming spices make these pies perfect for chilly days or festive gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a special role in creating the ideal balance of flavors and textures in the Mini Cinnamon Apple Pies with Crumble Topping. From the richness of the butter to the soft, spiced apples, every element enhances the final result.

• Apples: Choose tart apples like Granny Smith for a firm texture and balanced sweetness.
• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is the star spice that warms the filling with cozy notes.
• Nutmeg and Allspice: These spices add depth and complexity without overpowering the apple’s natural flavor.
• Butter: Use cold, unsalted butter for a flaky pie crust and a buttery crumble topping.
• Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect for both the crust and the crumble.
• Sugar: A mix of granulated and brown sugar ensures both sweetness and rich caramel undertones.
• Pie Crust Dough: Store-bought or homemade pie dough works beautifully for this recipe.
• Egg Wash: An egg mixed with a splash of water or milk creates a shiny golden crust.

Variations for Mini Cinnamon Apple Pies with Crumble Topping

Feel free to personalize Mini Cinnamon Apple Pies with Crumble Topping to suit your taste buds or dietary needs — these pies are super adaptable. Whether you want to switch up the fruit or tweak textures, the options are endless and easy to try.

• Apple-Pear Blend: Add diced pears for a softer, juicier filling with a subtle sweetness.
• Gluten-Free Crust: Use a gluten-free pastry dough to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
• Vegan Version: Substitute butter with coconut oil and egg wash with a plant-based milk for a cruelty-free treat.
• Spice Twist: Add cardamom or ginger for a unique spice profile that surprises the palate.
• Nutty Crumble: Mix chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumble topping for extra crunch and flavor.

this …

How to Make Mini Cinnamon Apple Pies with Crumble Topping

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Peel, core, and dice the apples into small chunks. Toss them with cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and a mix of brown and granulated sugar to create a fragrant, sweet, and spiced filling that will soak perfectly into each pie.

Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping

In a bowl, combine cold butter cubes, flour, and brown sugar. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to crumble the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This topping will add needed texture and sweetness.

Step 3: Roll Out and Cut the Dough

Roll out the pie crust dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or glass to cut circles large enough to fit into your muffin tin or mini pie molds.

Step 4: Assemble the Mini Pies

Place the dough circles into your mini pie pans, spoon the apple filling evenly into each shell, and then sprinkle the crumble topping generously on top.

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash

Brush the exposed edges of the dough with an egg wash to ensure they bake to a beautiful golden hue and add a subtle sheen.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the pies in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden and the crumble topping is bubbly with toasted edges.

Pro Tips for Making Mini Cinnamon Apple Pies with Crumble Topping

• Chill Your Ingredients: Keep butter cold for flakier crusts and crumble.
• Don’t Overfill: Leave some space in the pie shells for the filling to expand without spilling over.
• Uniform Dice: Cut apples to similar sizes for even cooking.
• Use a Muffin Tin: Mini muffin tins work great to support the pies and keep their shape.
• Monitor Baking Time: Check pies a few minutes before the timer to prevent over-browning.

How to Serve Mini Cinnamon Apple Pies with Crumble Topping

Garnishes

A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream complements these pies wonderfully, enhancing the warm sweet and spicy flavors. You can also sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Side Dishes

Pair your mini pies with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or mulled cider to create a cozy dessert experience that will warm you up from the inside out on a chilly day.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the pies on rustic wooden boards or decorative dessert plates with autumn leaves or cinnamon sticks for a charming, festive look. Mini pie towers or individual gift boxes make for delightful holiday or party favors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Mini Cinnamon Apple Pies with Crumble Topping in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate to keep them fresh for up to a week.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked assembled pies or fully baked pies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to two months, then bake or reheat as desired.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to revive that fresh-baked taste and crispy crumble topping. Avoid microwaving to maintain crust texture.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith hold up best, you can mix in sweeter varieties for a balanced flavor and texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free pie crust and substitute the flour in the crumble with a gluten-free flour blend for an allergy-friendly treat.

How long do these mini pies last?

Stored properly, they last about two days at room temperature or up to a week refrigerated.

Can I prepare these pies ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble them a day in advance and refrigerate before baking, or freeze them unbaked and bake fresh when needed.

What’s the best way to achieve a flaky crust?

Use cold butter and minimal handling of the dough; keeping everything cold until baking helps ensure flakiness.

Final Thoughts

Mini Cinnamon Apple Pies with Crumble Topping are a heartwarming dessert that brings the spirit of autumn and the comfort of home right to your table. With their perfect balance of flaky crusts, spiced apple filling, and sweet crumble, these pies make every moment a little more special. Give this recipe a try, and get ready to delight friends and family with every warm, fragrant bite!

Related Posts

• How to Make Homemade Apple Fritters with Cinnamon Glaze
• Why Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze Delight
• Why Sangkaya Faktong (Thai Kabocha Pumpkin Custard) Is a Must-Try Dessert

Print