Introduction
Apple Pie Bombs are a delightful, bite-sized dessert that packs all the comforting flavors of a classic apple pie into a fun, portable treat. These mini pastries are filled with a sweet, spiced apple filling, wrapped in a flaky, buttery dough, and baked to golden perfection. The result is a warm, gooey interior that is reminiscent of traditional apple pie but in a convenient, hand-held form. Perfect for any occasion, Apple Pie Bombs are sure to impress your guests with their scrumptious flavor and delightful presentation.
Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, bringing dessert to a potluck, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these Apple Pie Bombs are a crowd-pleasing choice. This guide will walk you through every step of making these little bursts of apple pie goodness, provide helpful tips for perfecting the recipe, and suggest variations to make them your own.
Why You’ll Love Apple Pie Bombs
- Convenient and Portable: These bite-sized treats are perfect for grabbing on the go or serving at a party. They offer all the flavors of apple pie without the need for slicing and serving.
- Warm, Gooey Filling: The spiced apple filling, combined with a flaky pastry, creates a warm, gooey center that is irresistible. Each bite offers a burst of sweetness with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Crispy, Buttery Crust: The dough surrounding the apple filling is flaky, buttery, and perfectly crisp. It complements the soft apple filling, giving you the ultimate contrast in texture.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a family gathering, or a simple weeknight treat, Apple Pie Bombs are the ideal dessert. They are great for any season, especially in the fall when apples are at their peak.
- Simple and Easy to Make: Despite their impressive appearance, Apple Pie Bombs are easy to prepare with minimal effort. Using store-bought dough makes them even simpler to assemble, while still delivering that homemade touch.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Servings: Approximately 12 Apple Pie Bombs
- Calories per Serving: Around 180-220 calories per Apple Pie Bomb, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180-220 kcal
- Fat: 9-12g
- Carbohydrates: 25-28g
- Protein: 1-2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 14-16g
Ingredients
For the Apple Pie Bombs:
- 2 large apples (preferably a tart variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (or crescent roll dough)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Apple Filling
Start by preparing the apple filling. Peel and dice the apples into small, bite-sized pieces. You want the apple pieces to cook down easily inside the dough, so be sure to chop them into uniform chunks.
In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Stir the mixture together until the apples are well coated.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until the apples start to soften and release their juices. As the apples cook, the cornstarch will help thicken the mixture, creating a syrupy consistency that will stay inside the dough when baked.
Once the apples are softened and the mixture has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let the apple filling cool while you prepare the dough.
2. Prepare the Dough
While the apple filling is cooling, prepare the biscuit or crescent roll dough. If you’re using biscuit dough, separate the dough into individual biscuit pieces, and then gently flatten each biscuit into a circle. You want the dough to be about 3 inches in diameter, which will be large enough to hold a spoonful of the apple filling.
If you’re using crescent roll dough, unroll the dough and separate the triangles. Press the perforations together to form a solid rectangle and cut each rectangle into about 3 equal-sized pieces.
Once you’ve prepared the dough, you’re ready to fill and shape the Apple Pie Bombs.
3. Assemble the Apple Pie Bombs
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Take each piece of dough and place a spoonful of the cooled apple filling in the center. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the filling to spill out during baking. Use a tablespoon or small spoon to scoop the filling and place it on the dough.
Carefully fold the dough over the filling to form a ball, pinching the edges to seal it tightly. You want to make sure that the filling is completely enclosed to avoid any leakage while baking. If necessary, use a little water to help seal the edges.
Place each Apple Pie Bomb on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each one so they don’t stick together as they bake.
4. Brush with Butter and Sugar
Once all the Apple Pie Bombs are assembled, brush each one with melted butter. This will give the bombs a golden, crispy crust as they bake.
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over the top of each Apple Pie Bomb. This adds a sweet, spiced flavor to the outside of the pastry, enhancing the overall apple pie experience.
5. Bake the Apple Pie Bombs
Bake the Apple Pie Bombs in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. The time may vary slightly depending on the type of dough you use, so be sure to keep an eye on them as they bake.
Once baked, remove the Apple Pie Bombs from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet. Be careful when handling them right out of the oven, as the apple filling will be hot and may spill out if not handled gently.
6. Optional Garnishes
If desired, dust the cooled Apple Pie Bombs with powdered sugar for a pretty finishing touch. This adds a light sweetness to the already flavorful treats and makes them look even more irresistible.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once the Apple Pie Bombs have cooled slightly, they are ready to serve! They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. The inside will be filled with a gooey, spiced apple filling, while the outside will have a crisp, buttery layer that’s golden brown and delicious.
Tips for Perfect Apple Pie Bombs
- Use Tart Apples: For the best flavor, choose a tart variety of apple like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples hold up well during baking and provide a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Don’t Overfill: Be cautious not to overfill the dough with apple filling. If the bombs are overstuffed, the filling may leak out while baking, resulting in a messy treat. A tablespoon of filling per bomb is usually just the right amount.
- Seal Well: Make sure to pinch the edges of the dough together firmly to seal the Apple Pie Bombs completely. This ensures the filling stays inside and prevents it from leaking during baking.
- Brush with Butter: Brushing the dough with melted butter before baking gives the bombs a golden, crispy crust. It also helps the cinnamon-sugar topping stick to the pastry.
- Let Them Cool: Allow the Apple Pie Bombs to cool for a few minutes before eating, as the filling will be extremely hot right out of the oven. Letting them cool slightly ensures that you don’t burn yourself while enjoying them.
Variations of Apple Pie Bombs
- Caramel Apple Pie Bombs: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce inside the apple filling for a rich, sweet twist on the classic recipe. The caramel will melt into the filling as it bakes, creating an even more indulgent treat.
- Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Bombs: Use cinnamon roll dough instead of biscuit or crescent roll dough for a unique spin on the recipe. The soft, sweet cinnamon roll dough complements the apple filling perfectly.
- Apple Pie Bombs with Crumble Topping: For an extra-crunchy, streusel-like topping, add a crumble of flour, butter, sugar, and oats to the top of the Apple Pie Bombs before baking. This will add texture and a deliciously sweet finish.
- Mini Apple Pie Bombs: Use smaller biscuit dough portions to create mini versions of these Apple Pie Bombs. They’re perfect for bite-sized snacks or serving at a party.
- Apple Pie Bombs with Ice Cream: Serve these Apple Pie Bombs with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert that combines the warmth of the bombs with the coolness of the ice cream.
Storage and Shelf Life
Apple Pie Bombs are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they’re warm and gooey. However, if you have leftovers, they can be stored for later. Allow the bombs to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze Apple Pie Bombs. After cooling, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer the frozen bombs to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Side Dishes and Pairings for Apple Pie Bombs
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm, spiced apple filling and crispy crust, creating a comforting dessert experience.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top of the Apple Pie Bombs for a rich, indulgent treat.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can be added for a creamy, light texture that contrasts with the crisp pastry.
- Hot Apple Cider: Pair these Apple Pie Bombs with a warm cup of apple cider, especially during fall or winter months. The warmth of the cider enhances the cozy flavors of the apple pie.
Apple Pie Bombs Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
Delicious, bite-sized pockets of flaky pastry filled with warm, cinnamon-spiced apples, reminiscent of classic apple pie. These little “bombs” offer all the comforting flavors of pie in a fun, portable package that’s perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
For the Apple Pie Bombs:
- 2 large apples (preferably a tart variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (or crescent roll dough)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Apple Filling
Start by preparing the apple filling. Peel and dice the apples into small, bite-sized pieces. You want the apple pieces to cook down easily inside the dough, so be sure to chop them into uniform chunks.
In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Stir the mixture together until the apples are well coated.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until the apples start to soften and release their juices. As the apples cook, the cornstarch will help thicken the mixture, creating a syrupy consistency that will stay inside the dough when baked.
Once the apples are softened and the mixture has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let the apple filling cool while you prepare the dough.
2. Prepare the Dough
While the apple filling is cooling, prepare the biscuit or crescent roll dough. If you’re using biscuit dough, separate the dough into individual biscuit pieces, and then gently flatten each biscuit into a circle. You want the dough to be about 3 inches in diameter, which will be large enough to hold a spoonful of the apple filling.
If you’re using crescent roll dough, unroll the dough and separate the triangles. Press the perforations together to form a solid rectangle and cut each rectangle into about 3 equal-sized pieces.
Once you’ve prepared the dough, you’re ready to fill and shape the Apple Pie Bombs.
3. Assemble the Apple Pie Bombs
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Take each piece of dough and place a spoonful of the cooled apple filling in the center. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the filling to spill out during baking. Use a tablespoon or small spoon to scoop the filling and place it on the dough.
Carefully fold the dough over the filling to form a ball, pinching the edges to seal it tightly. You want to make sure that the filling is completely enclosed to avoid any leakage while baking. If necessary, use a little water to help seal the edges.
Place each Apple Pie Bomb on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each one so they don’t stick together as they bake.
4. Brush with Butter and Sugar
Once all the Apple Pie Bombs are assembled, brush each one with melted butter. This will give the bombs a golden, crispy crust as they bake.
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over the top of each Apple Pie Bomb. This adds a sweet, spiced flavor to the outside of the pastry, enhancing the overall apple pie experience.
5. Bake the Apple Pie Bombs
Bake the Apple Pie Bombs in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. The time may vary slightly depending on the type of dough you use, so be sure to keep an eye on them as they bake.
Once baked, remove the Apple Pie Bombs from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet. Be careful when handling them right out of the oven, as the apple filling will be hot and may spill out if not handled gently.
6. Optional Garnishes
If desired, dust the cooled Apple Pie Bombs with powdered sugar for a pretty finishing touch. This adds a light sweetness to the already flavorful treats and makes them look even more irresistible.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once the Apple Pie Bombs have cooled slightly, they are ready to serve! They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. The inside will be filled with a gooey, spiced apple filling, while the outside will have a crisp, buttery layer that’s golden brown and delicious.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 180-220 kcal
- Fat: 9-12g
- Carbohydrates: 25-28g
- Protein: 1-2g
Conclusion
Apple Pie Bombs are a fun and delicious twist on the classic apple pie, offering all the flavors and comfort of a traditional dessert in a convenient, bite-sized form. These little treats are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. With their flaky crust, warm apple filling, and sweet cinnamon-sugar topping, Apple Pie Bombs will undoubtedly become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire.
With easy-to-follow instructions and plenty of opportunities for customization, you can make these treats your own. Whether you enjoy them with ice cream, caramel sauce, or on their own, these Apple Pie Bombs will bring joy to your table.