Easy Salted Caramel Apple Mini Pies Ready in 30 Minutes

Did You Know 68% of Home Bakers Avoid Making Pie Crust From Scratch?

It’s true—most of us reach for store-bought crusts, convinced that homemade pastry is too fussy or time-consuming. But what if I told you that these salted caramel apple mini pies could change your mind forever? With a flaky, buttery crust hugging tender spiced apples and a drizzle of golden salted caramel, these bite-sized delights are worth every minute of effort. And trust me, the process is far simpler (and more rewarding) than you think.

There’s something magical about the combination of tart apples and rich salted caramel—a pairing that feels like autumn wrapped in a pastry hug. These mini pies are perfect for sharing (or not—no judgment here) and bring all the cozy nostalgia of a classic apple pie, minus the intimidation of slicing a whole dessert. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or just treating yourself on a rainy afternoon, this recipe is your ticket to pie-making confidence.

Now, let’s talk about that crust. I promise it won’t betray you. The secret? Keeping everything cold and embracing imperfection. Those rustic edges and uneven crimps? They’re part of the charm. And when you pull these golden beauties from the oven, the caramel bubbling through the vents like little whispers of sweetness, you’ll understand why homemade is always, always better.

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Salted Caramel Apple Mini Pies

There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of sweet apples, rich caramel, and a flaky, buttery crust—especially when it’s all tucked into adorable little hand pies. These Salted Caramel Apple Mini Pies are the perfect bite-sized indulgence, whether you’re serving them at a cozy autumn gathering or just treating yourself on a quiet afternoon.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of our flaky crust. I always recommend measuring by weight if you can, but spooning and leveling works too!
• 1 tsp salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
• 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cubed – Keep it chilled! The colder the butter, the flakier the crust.
• 4-6 tbsp ice water – Add it slowly—just enough to bring the dough together without making it sticky.
• 2 medium apples (I love Honeycrisp or Granny Smith) – Tart and crisp apples hold up beautifully in baking.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar – For that deep, molasses-kissed sweetness.
• 1 tsp cinnamon – A warm, cozy spice that pairs perfectly with apples.
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg – Just a whisper for extra depth.
• 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought) – If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade caramel is divine, but a good-quality jarred version works wonders too.
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) – This gives our mini pies that gorgeous golden shine.
• Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling – The finishing touch that makes the caramel pop!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Pie Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter (or your fingertips) to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized butter pieces remaining. Drizzle in the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prep the Apple Filling: While the dough chills, peel and finely dice your apples. Toss them in a bowl with the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Let them sit for 10 minutes—this helps draw out some of the juices so your pies don’t get soggy.

3. Roll and Cut the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 3-4 inches in diameter) to cut out as many circles as you can. Repeat with the second disc. Pro tip: If the dough gets too soft, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.

Conclusion

These Salted Caramel Apple Mini Pies are the perfect bite-sized treat to satisfy your autumn cravings. With their flaky crust, tender spiced apples, and luscious salted caramel drizzle, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking them for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these mini pies bring warmth and sweetness to every bite.

Ready to give them a try? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the aroma of cinnamon and caramel fill your kitchen. Don’t forget to snap a photo and share your creations with us—we’d love to see how yours turn out! And if you’re craving more fall-inspired recipes, check out our Autumn Baking Collection for more delicious ideas.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pie crust for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a high-quality store-bought pie crust works just fine. Just roll it out slightly thinner before cutting into circles for the mini pies.

How do I store leftover mini pies?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 4 days. For a warm, fresh-out-of-the-oven taste, reheat them in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes.

Can I make these pies ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the mini pies a day in advance and keep them covered in the fridge. Bake them just before serving for the best texture. The caramel drizzle can also be made ahead and gently reheated when ready to use.

What’s the best apple variety for these pies?

We recommend using firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of flavor and texture. They hold their shape well and pair beautifully with the caramel.

Can I freeze these mini pies?

You can freeze the baked and cooled mini pies (without the caramel drizzle) for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature, then warm in the oven and add the caramel just before serving.