Apple Crisp Bites Recipe

Introduction

I made these Apple Crisp Bites for a family gathering last weekend, and they were an instant hit! The combination of warm, cinnamon-spiced apples, a buttery crisp topping, and the soft, flaky dough made for the perfect bite-sized treat. These bites are a great way to enjoy the comforting flavors of apple crisp without having to bake a whole pie. The mini servings are not only delicious but also perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or just as a simple dessert after dinner. My family couldn’t get enough of them, and they were gone in no time! The addition of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top is definitely a game changer. If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dessert, these Apple Crisp Bites are a must-try!

Why You’ll Love These Apple Crisp Bites

Apple Crisp Bites combine all the flavors of a classic apple crisp in a fun, handheld size. The crisp topping is perfectly sweet and crunchy, the apple filling is warm and spiced, and the dough base adds a nice flakiness to each bite. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility—whether you serve them at a holiday party, as a snack, or for a special dessert, these little bites are sure to impress. They are quick and easy to make, requiring only 35 minutes from start to finish, and they’re the perfect individual-sized treat for your guests. Plus, you can customize them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to make them extra indulgent. They’re a great way to bring a fresh twist to the classic apple crisp!

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling:

• 3 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

For the Crisp Topping:

• ½ cup old-fashioned oats
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Base:

• 1 package refrigerated crescent dough or phyllo dough sheets

Optional:

• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Apple Filling:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, lemon juice, and all-purpose flour. Stir well to coat the apples evenly with the sugar and spices. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Prepare the Crisp Topping:
   In another bowl, combine the oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using).
   Add the melted butter and mix until the mixture is crumbly and well combined.
3. Prepare the Base:
   Roll out the crescent dough or phyllo dough sheets.
   If using crescent dough, cut it into squares. Place each square into a greased mini muffin tin, pressing the dough into the tin to form a cup shape. If using phyllo dough, cut it into squares that fit into the mini muffin tin. Press down gently to form a base.
4. Assemble the Bites:
   Spoon a small amount of the prepared apple filling into each dough cup, filling them about ¾ full.
   Sprinkle the crisp topping over the apple filling, pressing gently to ensure it adheres to the apples and dough.
5. Bake and Serve:
   Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden and the crisp topping is bubbly and crisp.
   Remove the bites from the oven and let them cool slightly before transferring them to a serving platter.
   Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 24 bites
• Calories per serving: 140
• Sugar: 13g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands used.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• As a Party Dessert: These Apple Crisp Bites make a perfect bite-sized dessert for holiday parties, potlucks, or any festive gathering.
• With Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: For an indulgent treat, serve the warm bites with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
• As a Sweet Snack: These bites are great for a quick afternoon snack, especially when served warm.
• For Thanksgiving or Christmas: Make them for special occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas when you’re craving a fall-inspired dessert.
• For Gift Giving: These bites are a fantastic option for homemade gifts. Pack them in a cute container for a thoughtful gift.

Additional Tips

1. Use Tart Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work best in this recipe, as they hold their shape well during baking and provide a nice tartness that balances the sweetness of the topping.
2. Don’t Overfill the Cups: When filling the dough cups, don’t overfill them. About ¾ full is the perfect amount to ensure the topping and filling stay in place during baking.
3. Make Ahead: You can prepare the apple filling and topping ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the bites and bake as directed.
4. Try Phyllo Dough: If you prefer a flakier base, try using phyllo dough instead of crescent dough for a lighter, crispier texture.
5. Add Walnuts or Pecans: For extra crunch, you can add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crisp topping mixture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of dough?
   Yes, you can use puff pastry, phyllo dough, or even homemade pie dough for the base, depending on your preference.
2. Can I make these in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the bites ahead of time and bake them just before serving. The apple filling and topping can be made the day before and stored in the refrigerator.
3. Can I use frozen apples?
   Fresh apples are recommended for the best texture, but you can use frozen apples if that’s what you have. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
4. Can I freeze the assembled bites?
   Yes, you can freeze the unbaked bites. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a storage bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
5. Can I use other fruits?
   Yes, you can substitute apples with other fruits like pears, peaches, or berries. Just be mindful of the fruit’s moisture content.
6. How can I make these gluten-free?
   You can use gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe gluten-free.
7. Can I add spices to the apple filling?
   Yes, you can add nutmeg, ginger, or allspice to the apple filling for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
8. Can I make these bites in regular muffin tins?
   Yes, you can use regular muffin tins, but the baking time may need to be adjusted to accommodate the larger size.
9. How do I prevent the dough from becoming too soft?
   Make sure the dough is well-pressed into the muffin tin and not overly thick. Chilling the dough before baking can also help it hold its shape.
10. Can I use store-bought apple pie filling?
    Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought apple pie filling instead of making your own apple filling.

Conclusion

These Apple Crisp Bites are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With a simple yet flavorful combination of sweet apples, buttery crisp topping, and flaky dough, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re serving them as a dessert for a holiday meal, packing them for a picnic, or simply enjoying them as an after-dinner snack, these Apple Crisp Bites are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Try them today and experience the comforting taste of apple crisp in a bite-sized form!

Print

Apple Crisp Bites are the perfect treat for any occasion, combining the nostalgic flavors of traditional apple crisp with a modern, portable twist. Whether you’re preparing them for a cozy family dessert or an elegant party platter, they’re sure to impress. With simple ingredients, easy instructions, and endless customization options, this recipe is a must-try. Whip up a batch today, and watch them disappear in no time!