Apple Crisp Bites are the perfect treat for any occasion, combining the classic flavors of apple pie with the convenience of bite-sized portions. These delicious bites are made with a buttery oatmeal cookie crust, filled with a sweet apple mixture, and topped with a golden, crispy layer. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering, a holiday party, or just craving something sweet, Apple Crisp Bites will satisfy your dessert cravings. With a serving size of 12 bites, this recipe is ideal for sharing and sure to be a hit with everyone!
Ingredients to Prepare
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make these delightful Apple Crisp Bites. This recipe makes 12 servings, which is perfect for a small group or as a tasty snack to enjoy throughout the week.
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 Option:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3-4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced into 1/4-inch cubes
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
For the Canned Apple Filling Option:
- 1 can apple pie filling
Optional:
- Caramel topping
How to Make
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start making these irresistible Apple Crisp Bites. This step-by-step guide will ensure your bites turn out perfect every time.
Prepare the Oatmeal Cookie Crust
- Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking and make for easy removal. - Make the Crust:
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of rolled oats, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, and 12 tablespoons of softened butter.
- Mix until the ingredients form a crumbly texture. This will be the base of your Apple Crisp Bites.
- Form the Crust:
Press a heaping tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to press it firmly to form a solid crust.
- Bake the Crust:
Bake the crusts in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until they are lightly golden. Once baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool.
Make the Homemade Apple Filling (if using)
- Cook the Apples:
- In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced apples, 1/3 cup of brown sugar, 3 tablespoons of water, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/8 teaspoon of nutmeg.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and the sugar has dissolved.
- Thicken the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the apple mixture and cook until it thickens. Once thickened, remove the filling from the heat and let it cool.
Assemble the Apple Crisp Bites
- Fill the Crusts:
- If you’re using canned apple pie filling, simply spoon it directly into the cooled crusts, filling each cup generously.
- If you’re using the homemade apple filling, spoon the cooled mixture evenly into each crust.
- Add the Topping:
- Take the remaining oatmeal mixture and sprinkle a spoonful on top of each apple-filled crust. This will create a crispy topping as it bakes.
- Bake the Apple Crisp Bites:
Bake the assembled bites in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
Finish with Caramel (Optional)
- Drizzle with Caramel:
For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle caramel topping over each Apple Crisp Bite before serving. This step is optional, but it adds a delightful flavor that pairs perfectly with the apples and oats.
Serving Suggestions
Apple Crisp Bites are best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven, but they’re equally delicious at room temperature. Serve them as they are, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert. If you’re serving them at a party, arrange the bites on a platter with a drizzle of caramel sauce for a beautiful presentation.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
Storage and Leftovers
- Storage:
Store any leftover Apple Crisp Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, they can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. - Freezing:
To freeze, place the cooled bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Apple Crisp Bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these bites a day or two in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container and, if desired, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
2. Can I use a different type of apple for the filling?
Absolutely! While any apple variety will work, Granny Smith apples are a great choice for a tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar. Honeycrisp or Fuji apples also work well for a sweeter taste.
3. What can I use instead of rolled oats in the crust?
If you don’t have rolled oats on hand, you can substitute them with quick oats. However, the texture may be slightly different. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free oats.
4. How do I prevent the crust from becoming too hard?
To avoid a hard crust, make sure not to overbake it during the initial baking phase. It should be just lightly golden before adding the filling and topping.
5. Can I use a different fruit filling?
Certainly! This recipe is versatile, and you can substitute the apple filling with other fruits like peaches, pears, or berries. Adjust the spices and sugar to complement the fruit you choose.
Conclusion
Apple Crisp Bites are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, offering all the flavors of apple crisp in a convenient, bite-sized form. With a buttery oatmeal cookie crust, sweet apple filling, and a crispy topping, these bites are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Whether you choose to make the homemade apple filling or opt for the convenience of canned filling, these treats are quick and easy to prepare. Enjoy them warm with a scoop of ice cream, or simply on their own as a sweet snack. Don’t forget to drizzle them with caramel for an extra indulgent touch!
Try this recipe today, and share the joy of Apple Crisp Bites with your friends and family. They’re perfect for any occasion and are sure to become a favorite in your household.
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Apple Crisp Bites: A Sweet and Crunchy Delight
Ingredients
- Oatmeal Cookie Crust:
- For the Homemade Apple Filling Option:
- For the Canned Apple Filling Option:
- Optional:
Instructions
- Prepare the Oatmeal Cookie Crust:
- Make the Homemade Apple Filling (if using):
- Assemble the Apple Crisp Bites:
- Finish with Caramel (optional):