2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker filling)
For the Crust:
1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade pie dough if preferred)
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Prepare the Apple Filling
Cook the Apples: In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the apples start to soften.
Thicken the Filling: If you want a thicker filling, dissolve the cornstarch in a tablespoon of water and stir it into the apple mixture. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the filling thickens.
Let Cool: Remove the saucepan from the heat and set aside to cool while you prepare the crust.
Prepare the Pie Crusts
Roll Out the Crusts: Unroll the pie crusts on a clean surface. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out 3-inch circles from the dough.
Brush with Butter: Place the dough circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each circle with melted butter.
Assemble the Apple Pie Bites
Fill the Crusts: Spoon a small amount of the apple filling into the center of each dough circle, being careful not to overfill.
Seal the Bites: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape or pinch the edges to make little turnovers.
Press Edges: Use a fork to crimp the edges of the dough to seal the pies tightly.
Bake the Apple Pie Bites
Top with Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle the mixture over the top of each pie.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and flaky.
Serve the Apple Pie Bites
Cool and Serve: Allow the apple pie bites to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, and feel free to serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.