| |

Mini Apple Tart Recipes Recipe

Avatar photoByLauren
Jump to Recipe·5 from 72 reviews

If you’re a fan of cozy, flaky, and perfectly spiced desserts, then you’re in for a treat. My Mini Apple Tart Recipes Recipe is a fan-freaking-tastic way to enjoy all the deliciousness of apple pie without any fuss. These little tarts are buttery, sweet with a hint of tartness, and super fun to make and share—trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

❤️

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfectly Portable: These mini tarts are the ideal single-serve size, making them great for gatherings or quick snacks.
  • Simple Ingredients: You probably have everything in your pantry already, so no last-minute grocery runs.
  • Homemade Flavor: The apple pie spice and fresh lemon juice balance the sweetness, giving an authentic pie taste in tart form.
  • Quick Assembly: You’ll be surprised how fast these come together, so they’re perfect for when you want something sweet without a big time commitment.
The image shows a close-up of a small pastry with a flaky golden brown crust surrounding a filling of chunky cooked apples. The apples are soft with a warm yellow color, coated in a shiny brown cinnamon-spiced glaze that makes them look juicy and sticky. The filling is packed tightly inside the pastry shell, which has visible layers of crisp dough at the edges. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Mini Apple Tart Recipes, apple tart dessert, handheld apple pies, easy apple tart, homemade apple tart this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Mini Apple Tart Recipes Recipe lies in using fresh, crisp apples mixed with warm spices wrapped in flaky pie dough. When you pick your apples, go for something firm and slightly tart like Pink Lady—you’ll find the flavor pops perfectly.

Flat lay of flaky pie dough rolled out on a simple white ceramic plate, a small mound of all-purpose flour nearby, a few small cubes of unsalted butter on a white bowl, dark brown sugar in a small white bowl, a white bowl with a blend of apple pie spices, a white bowl with clear water, a small white bowl holding freshly squeezed lemon juice, a small white bowl with vanilla extract, a few large kosher salt crystals on the side, two medium Pink Lady apples—one whole with bright red and yellow skin, the other peeled and finely diced in a neat pile on a white dish, and a small white bowl containing cornstarch, all arranged symmetrically and naturally placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Mini Apple Tart Recipes, apple tart dessert, handheld apple pies, easy apple tart, homemade apple tart
  • Flaky Pie Dough: Whether homemade or store-bought, chilled dough works best to keep those flakey layers when baking.
  • All-purpose flour: Just a little for dusting to keep your workspace from sticking.
  • Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create that golden, crisp texture on top.
  • Dark brown sugar: Gives the filling a deep molasses sweetness that pairs beautifully with apples.
  • Apple Pie Spice: This blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves is the secret to making these tarts smell and taste like comfort in bite-sized form.
  • Water: Used to bind and melt the sugar to create a luscious apple glaze.
  • Lemon juice: Brightens the filling and prevents the apples from browning.
  • Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the flavors.
  • Kosher salt: Just a pinch enhances all the sweetness and spice.
  • Firm, sweet-tart apples: Diced finely so the filling bakes evenly without sogginess.
  • Cornstarch: Helps thicken the filling and keeps it from running.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love making this Mini Apple Tart Recipes Recipe my own, and I encourage you to play around with filling flavors and toppings—after all, cooking is about making things your own!

  • Spice It Up: Try adding a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for a little twist on the classic apple pie spice—my family went crazy the last time I did!
  • Sweetener Swap: For a lighter version, swap out half the brown sugar for honey or maple syrup; it gives the filling a natural sweetness and depth.
  • Gluten-Free Dough: Use a gluten-free pie crust to make this recipe friendly for gluten-sensitive friends; the tarts still turn out beautifully flaky.
  • Caramel Drizzle: I sometimes drizzle warmed caramel sauce right before serving for an indulgent touch that everyone swoons over.

How to Make Mini Apple Tart Recipes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Apples

Start by peeling, coring, and finely dicing about two medium Pink Lady apples. The small dice ensures they cook evenly and fit nicely into the flaky crust without making it soggy. Toss the diced apples with lemon juice right away to keep them bright and fresh-looking.

Step 2: Make the Spiced Apple Filling

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then stir in dark brown sugar, apple pie spice, and a pinch of kosher salt. Add the diced apples and about 1/4 cup of water—this helps meld the sugar and spices into a cozy, syrupy filling. Stir in the vanilla extract and sprinkle cornstarch over to thicken. Cook gently until the apples are just tender but not mushy—this usually takes around 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare and Cut the Dough

Lightly flour your surface and roll out the pie dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a round cutter, cut circles that will fit neatly into your mini tart pans (or a muffin tin works great too). Press the dough gently into each mold, making sure there are no air bubbles.

Step 4: Fill and Bake

Spoon the warm apple filling into each dough-lined tart shell. You’ll want to fill them generously but avoid overstuffing. Brush the edges of each tart with a little water to help seal if you’re adding a lattice or top crust (optional). Bake the tarts at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.

Step 5: Cool and Enjoy

Let your mini apple tarts cool for at least 10 minutes before removing from the pans. This little wait makes sure the filling sets nicely and none of your apples spill out when you take a bite. I promise, it’s worth it!

👨‍🍳

Pro Tips for Making Mini Apple Tart Recipes Recipe

  • Chill the Dough: I learned the hard way that warm dough is tricky to handle—chill it well, and you’ll get perfect, flaky tarts every single time.
  • Don’t Overcook the Apples: Cook until just tender to avoid mushy filling; the apples will finish cooking in the oven.
  • Evenly Dice Apples: Uniform apple pieces ensure consistent baking and a pretty presentation.
  • Brush with Egg Wash: If you want a shiny, golden finish, brushing the tart edges with a beaten egg before baking is a game-changer!

How to Serve Mini Apple Tart Recipes Recipe

A group of small tarts arranged on a white tray with a smooth finish, each tart featuring a golden-brown pastry crust forming a thick cup shape. Inside the crust are many small, uneven pieces of cooked apple, coated in a shiny, dark caramel-colored sauce with a slightly sticky texture. The apples have a soft but noticeable texture, with some pieces showing light yellow skin and others more deeply browned from cooking, each tart filled to just below the rim. The tray sits on a white marbled surface that reflects soft light, giving a clean and bright look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Mini Apple Tart Recipes, apple tart dessert, handheld apple pies, easy apple tart, homemade apple tart

Garnishes

I often dust these mini apple tarts with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar and add a small dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The coolness balances the warm, spiced filling perfectly in my experience.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of crisp apple cider for a cozy afternoon treat that’s irresistible.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I sometimes serve these mini apple tarts on tiered dessert stands garnished with fresh mint leaves and thin apple slices for a beautiful, festive touch. They make any table look inviting!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover mini apple tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Beyond that, I move them to the fridge, where they keep for about 4 days without losing their charm.

Freezing

These tarts freeze beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, I wrap them individually in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, just thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop the tarts in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warm and crisp again. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crust soggy, and instead enjoy that fresh-baked texture.

FAQs

  1. Can I use other types of apples in this Mini Apple Tart Recipes Recipe?

    Absolutely! While I recommend firm, sweet-tart apples like Pink Lady for balance, Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn also work well. Just make sure you adjust the cooking time slightly based on how juicy or firm your chosen variety is.

  2. Is it okay to use store-bought pie crust for this recipe?

    Definitely! Store-bought dough is a time saver and works great here. Just be sure to let it thaw fully and chill it before rolling to get that flaky texture.

  3. Can I make these mini tarts dairy-free?

    Yes! You can substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter blend. The texture might vary slightly but the tarts will still be delicious.

  4. How long can I keep mini apple tarts at room temperature?

    These tarts are best enjoyed within two days at room temperature to maintain freshness and crispness. After that, store them in the fridge to prolong shelf life.

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Mini Apple Tart Recipes Recipe brings all the comfort of apple pie into cute, hand-held treats that practically beg to be eaten. When I first made these, I was thrilled to find just how simple and satisfying they are, and my family goes crazy every time I bake a batch. If you want a sweet that’s easy, delicious, and perfect for sharing with friends or savoring solo, this recipe is a must-try. So grab your rolling pin, pick up some fresh apples, and let’s make magic happen in your kitchen together!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Mini Apple Tart Recipes Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 72 reviews
  • Author: Lauren
  • Prep Time: 60 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 110 minutes
  • Yield: 18 mini tarts
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

Delight in these Mini Apple Tarts featuring flaky pie crust filled with a spiced, tender apple mixture. Perfectly portioned for serving, these tarts blend buttery crust with sweet-tart Pink Lady apples, enhanced by warm apple pie spices, making them an easy and elegant dessert reminiscent of classic apple pie but without the fuss.

Ingredients

Dough

  • 1/2 recipe Flaky Pie Dough, chilled (or 1 store-bought pie crust, thawed if frozen)
  • All-purpose flour, for dusting

Apple Filling

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Apple Pie Spice
  • 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons water, divided
  • 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch kosher salt
  • 2 3/4 cups peeled and finely diced firm, sweet-tart apples, such as Pink Lady (about 2 medium apples)
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Lightly dust your work surface with all-purpose flour and roll out the chilled flaky pie dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut the dough into small rounds or desired shapes suitable for mini tart shells. Place them into a mini tart pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  2. Make the Apple Filling: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the dark brown sugar and apple pie spice until combined and fragrant. Add 1/4 cup of water, the lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of kosher salt, stirring to meld the flavors.
  3. Cook the Apples: Add the finely diced apples to the saucepan, stirring to coat them well in the butter and sugar mixture. In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in the remaining 2 tablespoons of water, then pour this slurry into the apple mixture. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the apples are tender but still slightly firm and the liquid has thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
  4. Fill the Tarts: Spoon the warm apple filling evenly into the prepared tart shells, distributing the apples and syrup mixture carefully to avoid overflow.
  5. Bake the Mini Tarts: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the tarts on the middle rack for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crisp, and the filling is bubbling gently. Remove from the oven and cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

  • These mini tarts capture the classic apple pie flavor in a delightful, easy-to-make form without the fuss of a full pie.
  • Use firm, sweet-tart apples like Pink Lady or Granny Smith for the best texture and balanced flavor.
  • If using store-bought pie crust, thaw completely before rolling and handling for easier preparation.
  • Apple Pie Spice can be made by combining cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves in the desired ratio.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 mini tart
  • Calories: 39
  • Sugar: 5.1 g
  • Sodium: 11.3 mg
  • Fat: 1.5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0.0 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6.7 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 0.1 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
Avatar photo

Hey there! I’m Lauren Braiden—your foodie friend who believes every meal should be tasty and low-stress. Expect easy peasy recipes, plenty of kitchen laughs, and zero judgment if you sneak a bite before the timer dings. Let’s cook, chat, and eat the good stuff together! 🎉🍴

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star