There’s something magical about miniature desserts. They feel elegant, fun, and just the right size to satisfy your sweet tooth without going overboard. These Mini Apple Tarts bring together the comforting flavors of classic apple pie in a small, easy-to-serve format that’s perfect for entertaining, gifting, or enjoying with a cup of tea.
Made with a buttery shortcrust pastry and a cinnamon-spiced apple filling, these mini tarts are crisp on the outside and soft and juicy on the inside. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering, a cozy brunch, or a casual dinner party, they’re sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love These Mini Apple Tarts
- Bite-sized delight – Perfect for parties or portion control.
- Classic apple pie flavor – With warm cinnamon and juicy apples.
- Easy to customize – Add nuts, spices, or a drizzle of caramel.
- Make-ahead friendly – Prep in advance and serve fresh.
Ingredients
For the Pastry:
- 1 ⅓ cups (170 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter or vegan butter, cold and cubed
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 2–4 tbsp ice-cold water
For the Apple Filling:
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter or vegan butter
- 2½ tbsp brown sugar or coconut sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or water
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water (to mix with cornstarch)
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Caramel drizzle
- Crumb topping (flour, sugar, butter mix)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pastry
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together. It should be soft but not sticky.
- Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in cling film, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Make the Apple Filling
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the chopped apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and vanilla (if using).
- Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to make a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the apple mixture and cook for 3–5 more minutes, until thickened.
- Remove from heat and let the filling cool to room temperature.
3. Assemble the Tarts
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry to about ¼-inch thickness.
- Use a round cookie cutter or glass (about 2.5–3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
- Press the pastry circles into a greased mini muffin tin or tart pans, ensuring the dough reaches the sides.
- Spoon the cooled apple filling into each tart shell, filling them generously.
4. Bake the Tarts
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and cooked through.
- Let the tarts cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel if desired.
- Serve warm, at room temperature, or with a scoop of ice cream.
Storage Tips
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze baked tarts in a single layer, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat in the oven.
Variations and Ideas
- Add nuts: Stir chopped walnuts or pecans into the apple filling.
- Go gluten-free: Use a gluten-free pastry mix.
- Make it vegan: Use vegan butter and ensure sugar is vegan-friendly.
- Top with a crumble: Mix flour, sugar, and butter to make a quick streusel topping before baking.
Final Thoughts
These Mini Apple Tarts are a fantastic way to enjoy the cozy flavor of apple pie in a fun, convenient format. They’re easy to make, versatile enough to suit various diets, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for your family, prepping for a holiday party, or just looking to treat yourself, these little tarts won’t disappoint.