Apple Crisp Bites: The Ultimate Mini Dessert for Fall

Are you in the mood for a warm, comforting dessert that brings the taste of fall into every bite? These Apple Crisp Bites are exactly what you need! Perfect for entertaining, holiday gatherings, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea, these bite-sized treats combine the classic flavors of an apple crisp with a delightful twist. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

What Are Apple Crisp Bites?

Apple Crisp Bites are a fun, mini version of the traditional apple crisp. Instead of a large dessert that requires serving utensils, these are baked in a mini-muffin tin, creating perfectly portioned bites. They have a crisp oatmeal cookie crust, a rich apple filling, and can be topped with caramel for extra indulgence. These mini treats are great for sharing and look absolutely adorable on any dessert table.

Ingredients You Need for Apple Crisp Bites

To make these delicious bites, you’ll need a few pantry staples and some fresh apples. Here’s the breakdown of what you’ll need:

For the Oatmeal Cookie Crust:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 12 tablespoons butter, softened

For the Homemade Apple Filling (Optional):

• 3-4 medium apples (use Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for best results), peeled, cored, and diced into 1/4-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

The Canned Apple Filling Option:

• 1 can apple pie filling

Optional Topping:

• Caramel topping (optional but highly recommended for extra sweetness!)

How to Make Apple Crisp Bites: Step-by-Step Directions

This recipe is incredibly simple to follow and doesn’t require any complicated techniques. Here’s how you can make Apple Crisp Bites in just a few easy steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 24-cup mini-muffin tin generously to ensure the bites don’t stick after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling (Optional)

If you’re making your own homemade apple filling, start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium-sized pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and 3 tablespoons of water. Cook for about 4-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are slightly softened.

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Add this mixture to the pan and stir continuously until the filling thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and let the filling cool.

Alternatively, if you’re short on time, use canned apple pie filling instead of making your own.

Step 3: Make the Oatmeal Cookie Crust

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, and brown sugar. Using a pastry cutter or a fork, cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This will be the base of your Apple Crisp Bites.

Step 4: Form the Crusts

Place a heaping tablespoon of the oatmeal crust mixture into each mini muffin cup. Press the mixture firmly along the bottom and sides to form small “cups” that will hold the apple filling.

Step 5: Add the Apple Filling

Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the apple filling into each oatmeal cup. For extra crunch, sprinkle a teaspoon of the remaining crust mixture on top of each filled cup.

Step 6: Bake the Bites

Place the mini-muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bites turn golden brown and crispy around the edges.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the Apple Crisp Bites cool in the muffin tin for about 10 minutes before carefully removing them with a knife. Drizzle each bite with caramel topping for an extra layer of sweetness. Serve warm or at room temperature!

Notes and Tips for Perfect Apple Crisp Bites

Making the perfect Apple Crisp Bites can be easy with these helpful tips:

• Best Apples for the Job: Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to maintain the texture after baking. Softer apples may turn mushy.
• Canned vs. Fresh: If you’re in a hurry, canned apple pie filling works just fine. However, making the filling from scratch gives you more control over the sweetness and flavor.
• Storage: You can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate them for a longer shelf life.
• Reheating: If you’re serving leftovers, warm the bites in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring out their full flavor.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

These Apple Crisp Bites aren’t just tasty—they offer a few health benefits, too! The apples provide fiber and vitamin C, while the oats contribute whole grains to your diet. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value:

Nutrition Details (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 bite
• Calories: 150
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 45mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 15g
• Vitamin C: 5% DV
• Calcium: 2% DV
• Iron: 4% DV

While this dessert is certainly a treat, it’s a better alternative to many sugar-loaded snacks, thanks to the inclusion of wholesome oats and apples.

FAQs

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love Apple Crisp Bites

These bite-sized treats are a total crowd-pleaser and offer all the comfort and coziness of a traditional apple crisp in a fun, easy-to-eat form. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want a delicious snack for yourself, Apple Crisp Bites are the perfect solution. Their simple ingredients, easy preparation, and delicious flavor make them a dessert you’ll want to whip up again and again.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the warm, cinnamon-spiced goodness of Apple Crisp Bites—one bite at a time!

More Relevant Recipes

• Pumpkin Crisp
• Caramel Apple Oatmeal Bake
• Pumpkin Roll Recipe
• Apple Fries Recipe

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