Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

These Mini Shortbread Pies with Berry & Apple Filling are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of autumn. Perfect for tea time or as a sweet dessert, these little treats combine buttery shortbread with a cozy filling of sweet apples and mixed berries. Their unique flavor and beautiful presentation make them ideal for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just a quiet evening at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create these charming mini pies without any fuss.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apples and berries offers a delightful sweetness balanced by buttery shortbread.
• Versatile Treat: Suitable for various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations.
• Perfect Portion Size: Mini pies are great for sharing and allow everyone to enjoy their own individual treat.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to experiment with different fruits based on your preference or seasonal availability.

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Tools and Preparation

Preparing these mini pies is straightforward with the right tools. Gather your kitchen essentials to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Pie dish or muffin tin
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining the crust ingredients thoroughly.
• Rolling pin: This tool helps roll out the dough to an even thickness, ensuring uniform baking.
• Pie dish or muffin tin: These are crucial for shaping the mini pies and giving them their lovely form.

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust:

• 160 g all-purpose flour
• 60 g powdered sugar
• 115 g unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 egg yolk
• 1–2 tbsp cold water (if needed)

For the Filling:

• 1 medium apple, peeled and diced
• 80 g mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp cornstarch

Course: Dessert
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minutes
Servings: 4–6 mini pies or 1 small tart

How to Make Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Dough

Begin by mixing the flour and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl. Add the cold cubed butter and rub it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg yolk. If necessary, add cold water one tablespoon at a time until the dough comes together.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step ensures that your crust will hold its shape while baking.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, combine diced apple, mixed berries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Mix well to coat all fruits evenly.

Step 4: Preheat Your Oven

While your dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that your mini pies bake evenly.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator. On a floured surface, roll it out until it’s about 0.5 cm thick. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or glass that fits into your pie dish or muffin tin.

Step 6: Assemble the Pies

Place each circle into your prepared pie dish or muffin tin. Fill each crust with the berry and apple mixture. You can also top each pie with little pieces of leftover dough if desired.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Once done, let them cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy these delightful mini shortbread pies warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

These mini shortbread pies are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon tea or a festive dinner, serving these delightful treats can elevate the experience.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream complements the sweet and fruity filling, adding a creamy texture.
• Try a scoop of cinnamon ice cream for a spiced twist that enhances the apple flavors.

Add Fresh Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream balances the richness of the shortbread crust.
• For extra flavor, consider folding in vanilla extract or a hint of almond extract.

Top with Fresh Berries

• Garnish with fresh berries to enhance presentation and freshness.
• A mix of raspberries and blueberries can add an appealing pop of color.

Serve with Tea or Coffee

• A warm cup of tea pairs beautifully, bringing out the comforting elements of the dessert.
• Opt for herbal teas like chamomile or spiced chai that complement the pie’s flavors.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Arrange mini shortbread pies alongside other desserts for a variety of options.
• Include items like macarons or chocolate truffles for an elegant touch.

How to Perfect Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

To ensure your mini shortbread pies turn out perfectly, follow these helpful tips.

• Use cold butter: Cold butter helps create a flakier shortbread crust. Make sure it is cubed before mixing.
• Don’t overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to keep the crust tender. Overmixing can lead to toughness.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain its shape during baking.
• Pre-bake the crust: Pre-baking (blind baking) will prevent a soggy bottom and ensure even cooking.
• Adjust sweetness: Depending on your taste, feel free to adjust the sugar in both crust and filling.
• Experiment with fillings: Try different fruits like peaches or cherries for unique flavors in your pies.

Best Side Dishes for Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

Serve your mini shortbread pies with these delightful side dishes that complement their flavors perfectly.

1. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses adds savory notes that balance the sweetness of your pie. Include sharp cheddar and creamy brie.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad incorporates seasonal fruits, enhancing the overall fresh experience. Consider using citrus fruits for brightness.
3. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each pie for an indulgent touch that pairs wonderfully with fruit flavors.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip pieces of pie into rich melted chocolate for added decadence.
5. Spiced Nuts: A bowl of spiced nuts provides crunch and contrast to the buttery texture of the pie. Roasted almonds or pecans work well.
6. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries in small cups as a light side option that balances richness while adding health benefits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overworking the dough: Kneading or mixing too much can lead to tough crusts. Mix just until combined for a tender shortbread pie.
• Not chilling ingredients: Using warm butter or eggs can affect the texture. Ensure butter is cold and cubed for the best results.
• Incorrect filling ratios: Too much filling can overflow, while too little may dry out the pie. Stick to the ingredient measurements for balance.
• Skipping egg wash: An egg wash gives pies a beautiful golden finish. Don’t skip this step for an appetizing look.
• Ignoring baking times: Each oven is different; start checking your pies a few minutes before the suggested time to prevent overbaking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.

Freezing Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

• Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap, then foil for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warmed through, but this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling special?

This pie combines buttery shortbread with a sweet and tangy fruit filling, making it perfect for any occasion.

Can I use other fruits in the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different berries or even peaches and pears based on your preference.

How do I achieve a flaky crust?

To get that flaky texture, ensure your butter is very cold. You can even chill your flour before mixing it in.

Is Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling suitable for special diets?

You can modify this recipe by using gluten-free flour or dairy-free butter alternatives if needed.

Final Thoughts

The Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling is not only delightful but also versatile and easy to customize. Whether you prefer different fruits or want to add spices, this recipe allows for personal touches. Try it out and enjoy this cozy dessert at any gathering!