Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

These Mini Shortbread Pies with Berry & Apple Filling are an inviting dessert that perfectly combines buttery shortbread with a sweet and tangy filling. Ideal for any occasion, from cozy tea times to festive gatherings, these mini pies stand out with their delightful flavors and beautiful presentation. Their individual size makes them easy to serve, and the combination of apples and berries ensures a treat that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these mini pies in no time.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet apples and tart berries creates a mouthwatering filling that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these pies warm or chilled, making them perfect for any season.
• Perfect for Sharing: These mini pies are great for gatherings, providing easy portions for guests.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of the ingredients at home, making this recipe convenient.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Mini Shortbread Pies with Berry & Apple Filling, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will simplify your baking process and help you achieve perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Baking tray
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Speeds up the mixing of the shortbread crust ingredients, ensuring a smooth texture.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without spills.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough evenly for a perfect crust thickness.

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 Crust

1. In a food processor, combine all-purpose flour and powdered sugar.
2. Add cold cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Mix in the egg yolk until combined. If necessary, add cold water one tablespoon at a time until the dough forms.
4. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine diced apple, mixed berries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch.
2. Toss gently until fruits are well coated with sugar and spices.

Step 3: Assemble the Pies

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 0.5 cm thick.
3. Cut out rounds using a cookie cutter or glass that fits your muffin tin cups.
4. Place rounds into greased muffin tins and fill each cup with the berry-apple mixture.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake in preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
2. Allow to cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delightful Mini Shortbread Pies with Berry & Apple Filling!

How to Serve Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

These mini shortbread pies are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. They are perfect for tea time or as a sweet ending to a meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Top the pies with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy complement to the buttery crust and fruity filling.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delicious contrast in temperature and texture, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the pies adds an extra layer of sweetness and makes the presentation irresistible.

Accompany with Fresh Berries

• Serve alongside a handful of fresh berries for a burst of flavor and color that brightens up your plate.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• A few fresh mint leaves not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a refreshing note to your dessert.

Enjoy with Hot Tea or Coffee

• Pair these mini shortbread pies with your favorite hot beverage, like tea or coffee, for a cozy afternoon treat.

How to Perfect Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

To ensure your mini shortbread pie turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use cold ingredients: Ensure your butter is cold when making the crust. This helps create a flaky texture that melts in your mouth.

• Don’t overwork the dough: Mix just until combined. Overworking can lead to tough crusts instead of tender ones.

• Chill before baking: Allow the assembled pies to chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape during cooking.

• Adjust sweetness: Taste your filling before adding it to the crust, adjusting sugar based on the sweetness of your apples and berries.

• Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on them while baking. The edges should be golden brown, but avoid overbaking which can cause dryness.

• Let cool before serving: Allow the mini pies to cool slightly after baking. This enhances their flavor and makes them easier to handle.

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

Pairing side dishes with these mini shortbread pies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Crisp Salad: A light green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pie.

2. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese that complement the sweetness without overpowering it.

3. Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote made from seasonal fruits can enhance the fruity notes in your pie.

4. Chocolate Fondue: For chocolate lovers, serve some fruit and marshmallows alongside warm chocolate fondue.

5. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and warmth, creating a delightful textural contrast.

6. Herbed Yogurt Dip: A tangy yogurt dip seasoned with herbs offers a creamy balance against the sweetness of the pie.

7. Coffee Cake: For brunch occasions, serve slices of coffee cake that pair beautifully with tea or coffee alongside your pies.

8. Scones: Lightly sweetened scones can be served on the side for an added layer of flavor and texture during tea time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making mini shortbread pies, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using warm butter: Warm butter can lead to a greasy crust. Always use cold, cubed butter for a flaky texture.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling step can cause the dough to shrink while baking. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
• Overfilling the pies: Adding too much filling can cause spills and soggy bottoms. Fill each pie just enough to allow room for bubbling during baking.
• Skipping the cornstarch: Cornstarch helps thicken the filling. Don’t skip this ingredient if you want a nicely set pie.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can alter your pie’s texture. Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store mini shortbread pies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

• Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each pie on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making mini shortbread pies:

Can I use different fruits in the filling?

You can definitely customize the filling! Try using peaches, cherries, or even pears for a unique twist.

How do I prevent my shortbread from becoming too crumbly?

Ensure you measure your ingredients accurately and avoid over-mixing when combining them.

What should I serve with mini shortbread pies?

These delightful treats pair well with whipped cream, ice cream, or a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess.

Can I make these mini shortbread pies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time. Assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Mini shortbread pies with berry and apple filling are not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy them as a cozy dessert or at tea time. Feel free to get creative with fillings based on seasonal fruits or personal preferences!