Mini Apple Pies

The problem with mini desserts is that they're so small, I think it's okay to eat five at a time. Sometimes a dozen. One minute I'm making a cute fall dessert for a crowd of 20, and the next I've consumed the entire batch myself. But whether you're like me or possess more self-control, these mini apple pies are a total delight. They taste just like homemade apple pie, but are adorably bite-size and easy to pack up and bring to a Thanksgiving potluck or bake sale. The apple filling is classically delicious, but it's the buttery crumble topping that I can't stop dreaming about.

Each mini pie starts with a flaky crust (store-bought is perfect here) and a gooey, cinnamon-spiced apple center that fills your kitchen with the cozy scent of fall. Just roll, fill, and top with an irresistible crumbly streusel. Fresh out of the oven, they’ll remind you of an old-fashioned apple pie cooling on the windowsill—they’re just smaller, cuter and will make any day feel a little special.

What kind of apples are best for mini apple pies?

I usually reach for Granny Smith apples when I make apple pie. Their tartness balances out the sweetness of the filling. Crunchy Honeycrisp and Gala apples are two other types of apples to use for apple pie. They’re both firm enough to hold their shape while baking and have a touch more sweetness than Granny Smiths, so you get a nice mix of flavors and textures in every bite.

Do you need to precook the apple filling for mini apple pies?

Nope! Because the apples are finely diced, they soften quickly while baking, becoming tender without turning mushy. The short bake time perfectly cooks the small pieces, creating a fresh, juicy filling with no extra step needed.

What kind of crust do you use for mini apple pies?

Since you’ll need 2 crusts, a box of store-bought pie dough works perfectly in this recipe. Of course, you can certainly make a homemade all-butter pie crust or shortening-based perfect pie crust if you prefer.

Do mini apple pies need to be refrigerated?

Yes! Store your mini pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you like them warm, just pop them back into the oven for 5 to 7 minutes before serving.

Can you freeze mini apple pies?

Absolutely! Once the pies have cooled completely, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to two months. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F oven (no need to thaw) until the crust is crisp and the filling is warm, 10 to 12 minutes.

Can you make mini apple pies gluten-free?

Yes! These mini apple pies are easy to make gluten-free with just a few swaps. Use your favorite gluten-free pie crust—either homemade or store-bought—and make sure your oats (if you’re using them in the crumble topping) are labeled gluten-free. The apple filling itself is naturally gluten-free, so once you’ve got the right crust, you’re good to go!