These Apple Pie Bites are little pockets of joy filled with sweet, spiced apples and wrapped in flaky pastry. Perfect for dessert or a quick snack!
Honestly, who can resist that warm apple goodness? I love serving them with a scoop of ice cream on the side—it’s like a mini pie party on your plate! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is a staple for the bites’ texture. If gluten is a concern, oat flour or a gluten-free blend can be great substitutes!
Apples: I suggest using Fuji or Gala for their sweetness and firmness. If you prefer a tart contrast, Granny Smith apples work wonderfully. You can also mix different kinds for extra flavor!
Brown Sugar: This adds a nice caramel flavor. If you’re out, use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses to mimic the taste, or coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon brings that classic apple pie flavor. For a twist, try using nutmeg or pumpkin spice as well.
Caramel Sauce: This is optional but really enhances the bites! If you want a healthier alternative, consider drizzling maple syrup instead.
How Do I Get My Apple Pie Bites Golden and Crispy?
The key to achieving that perfect golden and crispy texture lies in the frying process. Make sure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F or 175°C) before adding the batter. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a deep pot or fryer to ensure even heat distribution, helping with uniform frying.
- Fry in small batches. Overcrowding the pot can lower the oil temperature, making them greasy instead of crispy.
- Keep an eye on the time; about 3-4 minutes per batch should do the trick. Turn them occasionally for even cooking!
Letting them drain on paper towels afterward helps get rid of excess oil. Enjoy those delightful bites with their crispy outside and soft apple filling! 🍏
Apple Pie Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 medium apple (such as Fuji or Gala), peeled, cored, and finely diced
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For Frying and Coating:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
- Caramel sauce, for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll need about 10-15 minutes for preparation (chopping apples and mixing the batter) and around 15 minutes for frying and coating the bites. Perfect for a quick and delightful treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and caramelized, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, set the mixture aside to cool slightly.
2. Make the Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix!
3. Combine and Fry:
Now, gently fold the caramelized apple mixture into the batter until evenly distributed. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until the bites are golden brown and cooked through, which takes about 3-4 minutes per batch.
4. Coat and Serve:
Once fried, remove the apple pie bites with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels. In a shallow bowl, mix 1/2 cup of sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. While the bites are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat evenly. Serve warm and drizzle with caramel sauce if desired. Enjoy your delightful apple pie bites!
Can I Use a Different Type of Apple?
Absolutely! While Fuji and Gala apples are great for sweetness, you can also use Granny Smith for a tart flavor or a mix of different apples for a more complex taste. Just make sure they’re firm enough to hold their shape while cooking!
What Can I Substitute for Egg in this Recipe?
If you need an egg substitute, try using 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). These will help bind the ingredients while keeping the bites moist!
How Should I Store Any Leftovers?
Store any leftover apple pie bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or in a toaster oven to regain some of that original crispiness before serving.
Can I Bake these Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and arrange the batter on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. They may not be as crispy as the fried version but still delicious!