Gabriella D'AgostinoA small apple pie recipe offers a delightful treat, perfect for individual servings or smaller gatherings. This recipe emphasizes ease of preparation and yields a perfectly sized pie, minimizing waste and maximizing flavor. The concise nature of a small apple pie recipe makes it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the recipe, including ingredients, instructions, nutritional information, and helpful tips for achieving optimal results. The focus on portion control also contributes to mindful baking and enjoyment.
This concise small apple pie recipe prioritizes simplicity and deliciousness. The recipe uses readily available ingredients, ensuring ease of access for home bakers. Precise measurements are provided to guarantee consistent results, and the detailed instructions make the baking process straightforward. The smaller size reduces baking time and simplifies portion control. The overall result is a perfectly sized, delicious apple pie, ideal for various occasions.
The adaptability of this recipe is also a key benefit. Various apple varieties can be substituted, allowing for customization based on personal preference and seasonal availability. Furthermore, the recipe can be easily scaled up or down to accommodate different group sizes, making it a versatile option for diverse baking needs.
Ingredients for a Small Apple Pie Recipe
- 1 sheet (14.1 oz) refrigerated pie crust
- 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions for a Small Apple Pie Recipe
- Preheat oven to 375F (190C).
- Unroll pie crust and place into a 6-inch pie plate. Trim excess dough.
- In a medium bowl, combine sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss gently to coat.
- Pour apple mixture into the pie crust. Dot with butter pieces.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Estimated Baking Time and Servings for a Small Apple Pie Recipe
This small apple pie recipe provides a concise and efficient method for producing a delicious dessert. The estimated baking time and number of servings are crucial for proper planning and portion control. The following table summarizes this important information. The relatively short baking time for this recipe contributes to its convenience, while the single-serving size is perfect for individual enjoyment or portion control.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Baking Time | 30-35 minutes |
| Servings | 1-2 |
Nutritional Information for a Small Apple Pie Recipe
Understanding the nutritional content of this small apple pie recipe is essential for making informed dietary choices. The recipe primarily uses readily available ingredients, allowing for relatively easy nutritional analysis. The following sections will provide a detailed breakdown of the key nutrients. Remember that exact nutritional values will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
This section will provide a comprehensive overview of the nutritional information based on the ingredients list. This analysis considers factors such as carbohydrate content, fat content, and overall caloric value to give a well-rounded picture of the pie’s nutritional profile. Further refinements could include specific vitamin and mineral content.
| Nutrient | Approximate Value (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 |
| Fat (g) | 10-12 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 35-40 |
| Sugar (g) | 15-20 |
| Protein (g) | 3-4 |
Tips for Baking a Small Apple Pie Recipe
Achieving the perfect small apple pie requires attention to detail and adherence to best practices. These tips will guide bakers in creating a consistently excellent product. Following these suggestions will improve the texture, flavor, and overall presentation of your pie. Proper techniques are paramount for success.
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Use high-quality apples:
Selecting ripe, flavorful apples is crucial. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are recommended for their balance of sweetness and tartness. Apples that are too soft may result in a mushy filling.
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Don’t overfill the crust:
Overfilling the crust can lead to overflow during baking. Maintain a reasonable filling level to ensure even cooking and a crisp crust.
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Blind bake the crust (optional):
For a crispier crust, consider blind baking it before adding the filling. This involves pre-baking the crust with pie weights to prevent shrinkage and ensure a more robust base.
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Vent the top crust:
Creating vents in the top crust allows steam to escape during baking, preventing a soggy pie. Use a fork or a knife to create several small slits.
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Cool completely before serving:
Allowing the pie to cool completely helps the filling set and prevents a messy presentation. This also allows for optimal flavor development.
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Add a sprinkle of coarse sugar:
Sprinkling coarse sugar on top of the pie before baking adds a delightful textural element and enhances the visual appeal. The sugar will caramelize slightly during baking.
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Experiment with spices:
Feel free to experiment with different spices such as cardamom or allspice to complement the apple filling and create unique flavor profiles.
The small size of this recipe makes it exceptionally versatile. It is ideal for individual portions, making it a perfect dessert for a small gathering or a personal treat. The ability to customize the recipe with various apples and spices allows for creativity and exploration within the realm of baking.
The ease and speed of preparation further enhance its appeal. Compared to larger pies, this recipe requires less time and effort, while maintaining a high quality of taste and texture. It perfectly balances convenience and delightful results.
Frequently Asked Questions about a Small Apple Pie Recipe
This section addresses common questions that often arise during the preparation and baking process of a small apple pie. The answers provide detailed clarifications and practical advice. Understanding these frequently asked questions will help ensure a smooth and successful baking experience.
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Can I use frozen pie crust?
Yes, you can use a frozen pie crust. Simply thaw it completely before using it according to package instructions. Allowing ample time for thawing is essential to prevent cracking during baking. Ensure the crust is pliable before placing it in the pie plate.
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What type of apples are best?
Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal for pies as they hold their shape better during baking and provide a good balance of sweetness and tartness. However, you can experiment with other varieties based on your preferences.
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What if my pie crust shrinks during baking?
Pie crust shrinkage is common and often due to the moisture content in the filling. Pre-baking (blind baking) the crust can help mitigate this issue. Additionally, ensure the crust isn’t over-rolled, which can lead to excessive shrinkage.
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How can I tell when the pie is done?
The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the pie is ready. Its better to slightly underbake than overbake.
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Can I make this pie ahead of time?
It’s best to bake the pie fresh, but you can assemble the pie ahead of time and keep it refrigerated until ready to bake. Ensure that the filling isnt left out at room temperature for too long.
This small apple pie recipe represents a balance of flavor, convenience, and portion control. The compact size is beneficial both for individual enjoyment and for minimizing food waste. This recipe is designed to be accessible and adaptable, making it suitable for bakers of all skill levels.
The detailed instructions and helpful tips offered here ensure a consistently successful baking experience. The recipe encourages exploration and adaptation, empowering bakers to create their own personalized versions of this delightful treat.
In conclusion, this small apple pie recipe offers a delicious and manageable way to enjoy this classic dessert. Its simplicity and adaptability make it an excellent choice for both beginner and seasoned bakers.