Bite-Size Apple Pies

By Melanie Campbell
@RossCampbell

Make sure to make the homemade apple pie spice!

Rating:

★★★★★ 1 vote

Comments:

6 Comments

Serves:

12 (depending how many you make)

Prep:

30 Min

Cook:

15 Min

Method:

Bake

Blue Ribbon Recipe

Notes from the Test Kitchen:
Apple pie in a bite-sized form ... delicious! I highly suggest making the homemade apple pie spice. The combination of flavors is great. The cardamom has a strong, spicy flavor that works well with the cinnamon and nutmeg. The pies on their own are delicious with the crunchy gingerbread cookie crust. But drizzle the caramel sauce on top and no one will be able to resist these adorable apple pies. The caramel sauce is going to be a staple in your fridge.

Ingredients

1 Tbsp: ground cinnamon
1 tsp: ground nutmeg
1 tsp: allspice
1 dash(es): cardamom (optional)
2 c: gingersnaps crumbs
8 Tbsp: melted butter
4 c: apples
1/4 c: brown sugar
1/3 c: sugar
1/2 tsp: ground cloves
1 tsp: apple pie spice
1 tsp: salt
2 1/4 Tbsp: all-purpose flour
1 c: brown sugar
1/2 c: half and half
4 Tbsp: butter
pinch: salt
1 Tbsp: vanilla extract

How to Make Bite-Size Apple Pies

Step-by-Step

1To make apple pie spice, place all ingredients in a small, resealable container and mix together. Use as directed in recipes that call for apple pie spice. Store in a dry place for up to 6 months.
2For the apple pies, in a bowl mix gingersnap crumbs and butter until well combined. With a spoon or melon ball scoop, place mixture into a muffin cup pan and press crust to fit inside. Bake at 350 for 5 minutes.
3Dice apples to make 4 cups. Place into a food processor and slowly pulse to make apple bits. Place in another bowl and combine brown sugar, sugar, apple pie spice, salt, and flour. Stir.
4Place apples in a saucepan and cook down over medium heat.
5Take the cooked apples and spoon into crust. Bake at 350 for 10 minutes. Let cool and then drizzle caramel on top.
6Caramel Sauce: Mix the brown sugar, half and half, butter and salt in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook while whisking gently for 5 to 7 minutes until it gets thicker. Add the vanilla and cook another minute to thicken further. Turn off the heat, cool slightly and pour the sauce into a jar. Refrigerate until cold.