Mini apple and cinnamon pies

Mini Apple and Cinnamon Pies: The Delight of Autumn at Home

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12 mini pies

Every autumn, when apples become sweet and fragrant, we all look for that perfect dessert to warm our souls. Mini apple and cinnamon pies are an inspired choice, being not only delicious but also easy to prepare. These pies combine the crunchy texture of the dough with the soft and aromatic apple filling, and the smell that will spread in the kitchen will make anyone feel at home.

Ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 250 g flour
- 120 g cold butter, diced
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 60 ml cold water

*For the filling:*
- 2 large apples, peeled and diced
- sugar (to taste, about 2-3 tablespoons)
- cinnamon (to taste, 1-2 tablespoons)
- 1 beaten egg (for brushing)
- powdered sugar (for decoration)

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by preparing the dough. In a food processor, add the flour, salt, and sugar. Mix these dry ingredients to combine them evenly. It is essential that the butter is cold to achieve a flaky dough. Add the diced butter and process for a few seconds until the mixture becomes crumbly, similar to wet sand.

2. Forming the dough:
Begin to gradually add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough starts to come together. Do not knead it too much; you want to achieve a homogeneous dough ball. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about an hour. This step is crucial to allow the dough to cool and become easier to roll out.

3. Preparing the filling:
Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Peel the apples and cut them into small cubes. In a pan, add the apple cubes, sugar, and cinnamon. You can adjust the amount of sugar and cinnamon according to your preferences. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples become slightly soft, but do not let them turn into puree.

4. Forming the pies:
After the dough has been in the fridge, take it out and roll it out on a floured surface. Use a rolling pin to obtain a thin sheet. Cut out circles with a diameter of about 5 cm using a pastry ring or a glass. On half of the circles, place a teaspoon of the apple filling, making sure to leave the edges free for sealing. You can add more filling if you like.

5. Sealing the pies:
Cover each circle with another circle of dough and press the edges well with a fork to ensure that the pies will remain sealed during baking. With a knife, make two small slits on each pie to allow steam to escape during baking. Brush each mini pie with beaten egg for a golden and shiny crust.

6. Baking the pies:
Place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven at 180°C for about 30 minutes, or until they become golden and crispy. The smell that will fill the kitchen will make you eagerly await the first bite.

7. Finishing:
After the pies have cooled, sprinkle them with powdered sugar for an elegant look and an extra touch of sweetness. These mini pies are perfect for serving at a party or as a dessert at a family meal.

Practical tips:
- You can vary the filling by using other fruits, such as pears or peaches, or by adding nuts for a crunchy texture.
- If you like a stronger cinnamon flavor, you can add a few drops of vanilla extract to the filling.
- Make sure the apples are well drained of excess juice after cooking them, to avoid making the dough too wet.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, and cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties. These mini pies are a healthier choice for a dessert compared to heavier options.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can replace part of the flour with whole wheat flour for a richer taste.
- How can I store the pies? These mini pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can reheat them slightly in the oven before serving.
- What drinks pair well with the pies? A cup of warm herbal tea or apple cider would perfectly complement the dessert.

These mini apple and cinnamon pies are not only a simple recipe but also an invitation to memories and pleasant moments spent with family. So, I wish you good luck in cooking and enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: Dough ingredients: 250 g flour, 120 g butter, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 60 ml cold water. Filling: 2 apples, sugar, cinnamon, 1 beaten egg for brushing, powdered sugar for decoration.