Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Start by mixing flour, sugar, fresh rosemary, and salt in a large bowl. Add the cold, cubed butter and work it in using your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 2: Add Ice Water
- Gradually add the ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Aim for a consistency that’s not too sticky. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Filling
- While the dough chills, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, flour, and lemon juice. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
- After the dough has chilled, roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles slightly larger than your muffin tin wells.
Step 6: Line the Muffin Tin
- Gently press the dough circles into the muffin tin cavities, making sure they fit snugly. Leave some overhang—that’s the delicious crust to fold over the filling.
Step 7: Fill and Fold
- Spoon the apple mixture into each dough-lined muffin cup, filling them generously. If you like, you can add a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top for extra sweetness. Fold the overhanging dough over the filling, creating a rustic look.
Step 8: Egg Wash
- Brush the tops with the egg wash you prepared earlier. This will give your pies a beautiful golden color when baked.
Step 9: Bake
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crusts are golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
- Once baked, allow the muffin tin fresh apple pies to cool for a few minutes before gently removing them from the tin. Enjoy warm, or let them cool completely if you’re planning to serve later.
Notes
- Choose the Right Apples: Go for a good mix of sweet and tart apples. Fuji and Granny Smith work wonderfully together.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix just until combined. Overworking can lead to tough crusts.
- Chill the Dough: Keep everything cold. This ensures flakiness in your crust—trust me, it makes all the difference.
- Experiment with Spices: Add nutmeg or allspice to the filling for a different flavor profile.
- Cover with Foil: If the tops are browning too quickly, tent the muffin tin with foil for part of the baking time.
