Apple Pie Bombs: The Ultimate Guide to Making Delicious Treats

Apple Pie Bombs: Prepare to have your taste buds explode with delight! Imagine biting into a warm, flaky, golden-brown pastry, only to be greeted by a burst of sweet and spiced apple filling. These aren’t your grandma’s apple pies (though we love those too!), these are a fun, modern twist on a classic dessert, perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply a cozy night in.

While the exact origins of encapsulating apple pie filling in a bite-sized pastry are somewhat shrouded in mystery, the concept draws inspiration from various cultures that cherish hand-held pies and pastries. Think of empanadas from Latin America or even the humble turnover. The beauty of these Apple Pie Bombs lies in their portability and ease of eating. No forks required!

People adore this dish for several reasons. First, the combination of textures is irresistible: the crisp, buttery exterior gives way to a soft, gooey, and intensely flavorful apple center. Second, they’re incredibly convenient. Unlike a traditional apple pie, these are portion-controlled and easy to transport. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, they’re simply delicious! The warm spices, the sweet apples, and the flaky crust create a symphony of flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and thirds!). So, let’s get baking and create some unforgettable Apple Pie Bombs!

Ingredients:

• 2 sheets (14.1 oz each) refrigerated pie crust
• 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix work great!)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 2 tablespoons milk or cream (for egg wash)
• Turbinado sugar or coarse sugar, for sprinkling (optional)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
• Caramel sauce, for drizzling (optional)

Preparing the Apple Filling:

Okay, let’s get started with the heart of our Apple Pie Bombs – the delicious apple filling! This is where all the magic happens, and trust me, your kitchen will smell absolutely divine.

1. Prep the Apples: First things first, peel, core, and dice your apples. I like to use a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a balance of tartness and sweetness, but feel free to use your favorite apple varieties. Aim for small, even dice so they cook evenly. You should have about 4 cups of diced apples.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. The flour helps to thicken the filling as it cooks, preventing it from being too runny. The spices are what give that classic apple pie flavor we all know and love.
3. Mix with Apples: Add the dry ingredients to the diced apples and toss gently to coat them evenly. Make sure every piece of apple is kissed with that sugary-spiced goodness!
4. Cook the Filling: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the apple mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened and the filling has thickened slightly. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. You want the apples to be tender but still hold their shape a bit. We don’t want mushy apples!
5. Cool the Filling: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the apple filling cool completely. This is crucial! If you try to assemble the bombs with hot filling, the pie crust will melt and become sticky, making it difficult to work with. I usually transfer the filling to a bowl and pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to speed up the cooling process.

Assembling the Apple Pie Bombs:

Now for the fun part – putting these little bombs together! This is where your creativity can shine, and you can really make them your own.

1. Prepare the Pie Crust: Unroll one sheet of pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Use a 3-inch round cookie cutter or a sharp knife to cut out circles. You should get about 12 circles from each sheet, so 24 total. If you don’t have a cookie cutter, you can use a glass or even a lid from a jar.
2. Fill the Circles: Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the cooled apple filling in the center of each circle. Don’t overfill them, or they’ll be difficult to seal. Remember, we want bombs, not explosions!
3. Seal the Edges: Moisten the edges of each circle with a little water or egg wash. This will help the top and bottom crusts stick together. Fold the circle in half to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal them completely. This is important to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
4. Repeat: Repeat the process with the remaining pie crust and apple filling. If you have any leftover pie crust scraps, you can reroll them and cut out more circles, but they might not be as pretty.

Baking the Apple Pie Bombs:

Almost there! Now it’s time to bake these beauties until they’re golden brown and bubbly. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible.

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the bombs from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk or cream to make an egg wash. Brush the tops of the apple pie bombs with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color and a slight sheen.
3. Sprinkle with Sugar (Optional): Sprinkle the tops of the bombs with turbinado sugar or coarse sugar for a little extra sparkle and crunch. This is totally optional, but I think it adds a nice touch.
4. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bombs are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
5. Cool: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the apple pie bombs cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent them from getting soggy.

Serving and Enjoying:

The moment we’ve all been waiting for! Time to devour these warm, delicious Apple Pie Bombs. Here are a few serving suggestions to take them to the next level:

1. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once the bombs are completely cool, dust them with powdered sugar for a pretty presentation.
2. Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: Drizzle them with warm caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness and indulgence.
3. Serve with Ice Cream: Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
4. Enjoy Warm or Cold: These Apple Pie Bombs are delicious both warm and cold. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a snack any time of day.
5. Storage: Store any leftover bombs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize your Apple Pie Bombs? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Different Fruits: Experiment with different fruits, such as peaches, berries, or cherries.
• Add Nuts: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the apple filling for extra flavor and texture.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the apple filling for a little kick.
• Use Puff Pastry: Use puff pastry instead of pie crust for a flakier, more decadent treat.
• Air Fryer: You can also air fry these! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the bombs in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.

I hope you enjoy making and eating these Apple Pie Bombs as much as I do! They’re a fun, easy, and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of apple pie in a bite-sized package. Happy baking!

Conclusion:

This recipe for Apple Pie Bombs is truly a must-try, and I’m not just saying that! The combination of flaky, buttery pastry and warm, spiced apple filling is simply irresistible. It’s the perfect comfort food, a delightful treat for any occasion, and surprisingly easy to make. Forget slaving over a full-sized pie; these bite-sized beauties deliver all the flavor with a fraction of the effort. Think of it: warm, gooey apple pie filling encased in a golden-brown, perfectly crisp shell. The aroma alone will have your family and friends gathering in the kitchen, eager to sample your creation. And the best part? They’re so easy to customize!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Presentation: Serve these Apple Pie Bombs warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra touch of indulgence. * Breakfast Treat: Enjoy them with your morning coffee or tea for a sweet and satisfying start to the day. * Party Appetizer: Arrange them on a platter for a delightful and unexpected party appetizer. They’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser! * Caramel Apple Pie Bombs: Add a teaspoon of caramel sauce to each bomb before baking for an extra layer of sweetness and flavor. * Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the bombs before baking for added texture and a nutty flavor. * Spiced Up: Experiment with different spices in the apple filling. A pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or even a hint of cardamom can add a unique twist. * Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, or even a cream cheese frosting, for a fun and interactive experience. * Air Fryer Option: While baking in the oven yields a wonderfully golden crust, you can also try air frying these Apple Pie Bombs for an even quicker and slightly crispier result. Just be sure to keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. I truly believe that this recipe will become a family favorite. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth, impress your guests, or simply enjoy a cozy night in. The possibilities are endless, and the results are always delicious. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create some magic in the kitchen. I’m confident that you’ll love these Apple Pie Bombs as much as I do. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made them, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear about any variations you tried, how your family and friends enjoyed them, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating and sharing delicious recipes that you’ll love. Happy baking! Print