Introduction
Welcome to Love With Recipes! Today, we’re thrilled to present a delectable dessert that combines the comforting warmth of baked apples with the rich, nutty flavor of almonds—our Mini Apple and Almond Pies. These petite, charming treats are perfect for sharing at family gatherings, dinner parties, or even as a cozy weekend indulgence. The recipe balances tender, flavorful apples with a luscious almond topping, baked until golden and irresistibly fragrant. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe offers a delightful experience with straightforward steps and delightful results. The beauty of these mini pies lies not only in their exquisite taste but also in their versatility—easy to customize with different apple varieties and optional spices. At Love With Recipes, we’re committed to helping you craft memorable homemade desserts that impress and satisfy. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s embark on this baking adventure together!
Time
Preparation and cooking times for this recipe are thoughtfully broken down to help you plan your baking session efficiently. The overall process takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, ensuring you have ample time for preparation, baking, and presentation.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Needed Equipment
To ensure smooth execution of this recipe, gather the following essential equipment:
- Oven with temperature control
- Mixing bowls of various sizes
- Large saucepan or skillet for cooking apples
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Digital kitchen scale (for precise measurements)
- Peeler and corer for apples
- Chopping knife
- Standard ramekins or small ovenproof dishes (6 units)
- Spatula for spreading
- Cookie sheet or baking tray
- Cooling rack
- Optional: pastry brush for egg wash
Tags
dessert, baked goods, fruit pie, almond, quick and easy, family favorite, individual dessert, autumn baking, holiday treats, comforting desserts
Serving Size
Each serving consists of one mini apple and almond pie, with a total of six servings per batch. This makes it suitable for small gatherings or intimate dessert servings. For larger groups, simply multiply the ingredients proportionally.
Difficulty Level
This recipe is rated as easy to moderate. The steps are straightforward, but attention to detail, especially during the assembly and baking process, will yield the best results. Ideal for home bakers looking to hone their skills in fruit-based desserts and almond preparations.
Allergen Information
| Allergen | Contains |
|---|---|
| Gluten | No (unless flour is used in pastry) |
| Tree Nuts | Yes (almonds) |
| Eggs | Yes |
| Dairy | Yes (butter) |
| Possible Cross-Contamination | Depends on equipment used; always verify ingredients if you have allergies |
Dietary Preference
This recipe is suitable for vegetarians. It can be adapted for vegan diets by substituting butter with plant-based margarine or oil and ensuring eggs are replaced with suitable alternatives such as flaxseed meal or commercial egg replacers. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens or additives.
Course
Dessert, Snack, Sweet Treat
Cuisine
European / American
Ingredients
Ingredient Quantities and Details
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking apples | 1½ (about 450g) | Granny Smith, Fuji, or Golden Delicious preferred for balance of tartness and sweetness |
| Soft brown sugar | 100g (½ cup) | Light or dark, depending on preference; adds richness and depth |
| Eggs | 3 large | Fresh eggs, room temperature for better emulsification |
| Caster sugar | 200g (1 cup) | Fine granulated sugar, for smooth mixing and sweetness |
| Butter | 200g (7 oz), softened | Unsalted preferred for control over salt content |
| Ground almonds | 200g (7 oz) | Provides moistness and almond flavor to the topping |
| Sliced almonds | A handful | For topping, adds crunch and visual appeal |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Oven and Ingredients
Begin by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F), Gas Mark 2. Ensure your oven racks are positioned centrally to promote even baking. This temperature is ideal for gently baking the mini pies, allowing the almond topping to set and develop a beautiful golden crust without burning or over-browning. Prepare all your ingredients before starting the cooking process to streamline assembly and ensure nothing is overlooked.
Step 2: Preparing the Apples
Peel, core, and chop the apples into small, uniform pieces—about ½-inch cubes. This size ensures even cooking and a pleasant texture. Place the chopped apples into a large saucepan or skillet. Add the soft brown sugar to the apples, and stir to coat evenly. Turn the heat to low and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft, translucent, and slightly caramelized around the edges. This process typically takes about 10-15 minutes. The cooked apples should be tender but still hold their shape, providing a luscious filling for your mini pies.
Step 3: Making the Almond Mixture
While the apples cook, prepare the almond topping. In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and beat them thoroughly until the yolks and whites are fully combined. Gradually add the caster sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture becomes pale, light, and slightly fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. This aeration step is crucial for achieving a tender, airy almond topping. Add the softened butter in small pieces and continue mixing until incorporated. Then, fold in the ground almonds until the mixture is smooth, thick, and creamy. This almond paste will serve as a rich, moist topping that complements the sweet, tart apple filling beautifully.
Step 4: Assembling the Mini Pies
Distribute the cooked apple filling evenly among six ramekins or small ovenproof dishes. Use a spoon or spatula to level the filling, ensuring consistent portioning. Carefully spread the almond mixture over each apple filling, smoothing the surface with a spatula or the back of a spoon. The almond topping should completely cover the apples, creating a sealed layer that bakes into a luscious crust. For a professional finish, you can pipe the almond mixture in decorative swirls or patterns, but a smooth layer is perfectly acceptable and ensures even baking.
Step 5: Adding the Finishing Touches
Sprinkle a handful of sliced almonds on top of each mini pie. This not only adds a pleasing crunch but also enhances the visual appeal with a delicate, toasted appearance. The sliced almonds also provide a contrast in texture to the soft apple filling and smooth almond topping. Press them lightly into the almond layer to ensure they stay in place during baking.
Step 6: Baking the Pies
Place the ramekins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 50 minutes. During baking, the almond topping will turn a beautiful golden brown, with slight caramelization around the edges. The filling should be bubbling gently, indicating that the apples are fully cooked and the almond topping is set. Keep an eye on the pies towards the end of baking to prevent over-browning. If the tops brown too quickly, tent them with aluminum foil to protect the surface while the interior finishes baking.
Step 7: Cooling and Serving
Once baked, remove the ramekins from the oven and transfer them to a cooling rack. Allow the pies to cool for about 10-15 minutes—the filling will thicken slightly as it cools, making them easier to serve. Serve warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a dollop of fresh cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence. The contrast of warm, tender apple filling with the crunchy almond topping creates a sensory delight that is truly unforgettable.
Preparation Tips
- Apple Choice: Experiment with different apple varieties. Tart apples like Granny Smith provide a tangy contrast, while sweeter options like Fuji or Gala add extra sweetness. Combining varieties can create a more complex flavor profile.
- Spice Enhancements: For added depth, dust the apple mixture with ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice before cooking. These warm spices complement the apple flavor beautifully.
- Consistency of Almond Topping: Adjust the thickness of the almond mixture by adding a splash of milk or cream if it’s too thick, or more ground almonds if it’s too runny. The goal is a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Presentation: For a more polished look, lightly brush the edges of the ramekins with an egg wash before baking to promote browning and give a glossy finish.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 780.9 kcal |
| Fat | 46.6g |
| Saturated Fat | 19.1g |
| Cholesterol | 177mg |
| Sodium | 235.1mg |
| Carbohydrates | 88.8g |
| Fiber | 9.5g |
| Sugars | 75.6g |
| Protein | 11.1g |
Tips and Tricks
- Make Ahead: Prepare the apple filling and almond mixture a day in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving to enjoy the freshest taste and texture.
- Presentation: Serve in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra appeal.
- Flavor Variations: Incorporate lemon zest into the apple mixture for brightness or add a splash of vanilla extract to the almond topping for enhanced aroma.
- Texture Tips: Toast the sliced almonds lightly before garnishing for a deeper flavor and crunch.
Add-ons
- Whipped cream flavored with vanilla or almond extract
- Vanilla or caramel ice cream
- Caramel or chocolate sauce drizzle
- Fresh berries or fruit compote for garnish
Side Dishes
- Light vanilla custard
- Fresh fruit salad
- Herbal tea or dessert wine to complement the sweetness
Improvements and Variations
- Use puff pastry or shortcrust pastry as a base for a more substantial pie crust underneath the apple filling.
- Add a splash of bourbon or Grand Marnier to the apple mixture for an adult twist.
- Include chopped dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries in the apple filling for added texture and flavor.
- Opt for gluten-free oats or almond flour in the almond topping to cater to gluten sensitivities.
Save and Store
Leftover mini pies are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze individual ramekins wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 160°C (320°F) for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until steaming hot. These pies can also be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making them versatile for different preferences.
FAQ
Can I make these pies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apple filling and almond topping a day in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving for the freshest taste. Alternatively, bake the pies and reheat as needed.
Can I substitute the almonds?
Absolutely. If you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, walnuts or hazelnuts can be used as alternatives, though the taste and texture will vary slightly.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
Yes. Substitute the butter with plant-based margarine or coconut oil, and replace eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg). Adjust liquids as necessary for consistency.
What other fruits can I use?
While apples are traditional, pears, quinces, or even berries can be incorporated for a different flavor profile. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Conclusion
Creating these Mini Apple and Almond Pies is a rewarding baking project that yields charming, flavorful desserts perfect for any occasion. Their combination of tender apples, rich almond topping, and crunchy garnish offers a delightful harmony of textures and flavors. The adaptability of this recipe allows for endless variations, making it a versatile addition to your dessert repertoire. Whether served warm with a dollop of cream or enjoyed at room temperature, these mini pies are sure to impress family and friends alike. Remember, the joy of baking lies not only in the final product but in the process—embrace the aromas, the textures, and the simple pleasure of crafting something delicious from scratch. Happy baking from all of us at Love With Recipes!