Salted Caramel Apple Mini Pies

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why make this recipe

Salted Caramel Apple Mini Pies are the perfect treat for anyone who enjoys the warm and comforting flavors of apple pie with a salty-sweet twist. This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also brings together the delightful combination of tart apples and rich caramel. Each mini pie is the perfect serving size, making them great for sharing or enjoying on your own. Plus, they look adorable! Whether you are hosting a gathering, having a cozy night in, or just want to indulge your sweet tooth, these mini pies are sure to impress.

These mini pies are baked in a muffin tin, allowing for individual servings that are easy to grab and enjoy. The combination of spices adds a warm flavor, while the salted caramel sauce elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness. You won’t just be making mini pies; you’ll be creating little moments of joy with every bite.

how to make Salted Caramel Apple Mini Pies

Ingredients

To whip up these delightful mini pies, you will need the following ingredients:

1 package of pie crusts (store-bought works great)
4 cups apples, peeled and diced (green apples are a good choice for tartness)
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/4 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 egg (for egg wash)

These ingredients are basic and easy to find at your local grocery store. Using fresh apples brings out the best flavors in your mini pies.

Directions

Now, let’s get started on making these delicious Salted Caramel Apple Mini Pies!

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is an important step as it ensures that your mini pies bake evenly and turn golden brown.
Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss the ingredients together until the apples are thoroughly coated. The sugar and spices will enhance the natural sweetness and flavor of the apples.
Roll Out the Pie Crusts: On a floured surface, roll out the pie crusts. Use a round cutter to cut out circles that are large enough to fit into the muffin tin. You can also use the rim of a glass if you don’t have a cutter.
Assemble the Pies: Place each crust circle into the cups of a muffin tin. This will hold the filling nicely. Fill each crust with the apple mixture, making sure to distribute it evenly. Drizzle each filled pie with salted caramel sauce.
Top with Crust: Roll out another pie crust and cut out another set of circles. Cover each filled muffin cup with another crust circle. Make sure to seal the edges well by crimping them with your fingers or a fork. Brush the tops of each mini pie with an egg wash (just beat the egg slightly) to give them a nice golden glaze as they bake.
Bake: Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them and remove from the oven once they are golden brown and the apples are bubbling.
Cool and Serve: Let the mini pies cool slightly before serving. This will help the filling set a bit, making them easier to eat.

how to serve Salted Caramel Apple Mini Pies

These mini pies are best served warm, where the caramel sauce can ooze a bit when you bite into them. You can enjoy them plain or take it up a notch by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The creaminess of the ice cream paired with the warm flavors of the pie creates a wonderful contrast.

If you want to impress your guests, you can drizzle more salted caramel sauce on top just before serving. Garnishing with a sprinkle of sea salt on top will also add a lovely touch and contrast to the sweetness. Additionally, serving them with a dollop of whipped cream can also elevate the dessert into a rich and creamy experience.

how to store Salted Caramel Apple Mini Pies

Storing these mini pies is simple:

In the Fridge: If you have any leftovers, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. Before eating, you can warm them up in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a cozy dessert.
In the Freezer: If you want to store the mini pies for a longer period, they can be frozen. Make sure to wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well in the freezer for about 2 to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

tips to make Salted Caramel Apple Mini Pies

Use Fresh Apples: Fresh apples will give the best flavor and texture. Granny Smith apples are particularly good because they provide a tartness that balances well with the sweetness of the sugar and salted caramel.
Mix It Up with Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices according to your taste. Some people love adding ginger or allspice to the filling for an extra kick of flavor.
Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on the mini pies towards the end of the baking time. Once they’re golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling, they are ready.
Add More Caramel: If you are a caramel lover, don’t hesitate to add more salted caramel sauce – both in the filling and on top before serving.
Experiment with Toppings: You can top these mini pies with streusel topping or even a glaze made from powdered sugar and cream for extra sweetness.

variation

While the basic recipe is delicious as is, you can certainly play around with different ingredients:

Fruits: Try using different types of fruits. Pears, peaches, or berries mixed with apples can create new and exciting flavor combinations.
Caramel Sauce: If you prefer chocolate, consider using chocolate sauce in place of caramel or mixing it with caramel for a chocolate caramel twist.
Add Nuts: You can sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the apple filling for an added crunch.
Vegan Option: If you want a vegan version, swap the egg wash for a mixture of plant-based milk and a bit of maple syrup. Use a dairy-free pie crust and coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative for the ice cream.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen pie crusts?
Yes! Frozen pie crusts work perfectly for this recipe. Just let them thaw according to the package instructions before using them.

2. How can I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?
To prevent a soggy crust, you can pre-bake the bottom crust for about 5-7 minutes before adding the apple filling. This will help create a barrier and keep the crust nice and crispy.

3. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the apple filling a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the pies. Just remember to give it a little toss before using it.

4. Are these pies suitable for a party?
Yes! These mini pies are perfect for parties. They are bite-sized, easy to grab, and delicious. You can serve them on a platter, making them a delightful option for gatherings.

5. Can I make these mini pies gluten-free?
Yes! You can use a gluten-free pie crust to make these mini pies gluten-free. Just make sure to check all other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

Enjoy every step of the process, from preparing the ingredients to baking in the oven and finally, indulging in these delightful Salted Caramel Apple Mini Pies. They capture the essence of fall and are a perfect dessert for any occasion!