Churro Apple Pie Cups: Irresistible Bites of Cinnamon-Spiced Bliss

I’m Emma, and cooking has always been my way of connecting with loved ones. One of my earliest and fondest memories is baking apple pies with my grandmother. The warm aroma of cinnamon and apples filled the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that brought everyone together. Today, I want to share a delightful twist on this classic treat—Churro Apple Pie Cups.

These Churro Apple Pie Cups capture the essence of those cherished moments while adding a playful spin. Imagine taking a bite into a crispy, cinnamon-dusted shell filled with a luscious apple filling. Each cup is a delightful blend of sweet and spice, perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.

Creating these cups is incredibly simple, yet they offer a touch of elegance that makes them a show-stopper at any table. The recipe combines the comforting flavors of apple pie with the fun twist of churros, making it a favorite for both kids and adults. Get ready to transform basic ingredients into something magical, and let’s dive into this delicious journey together.

In this article, we’ll explore the fundamentals of making these Churro Apple Pie Cups, share preparation tips, and discover ways to perfect and serve them. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe promises to be a delightful adventure.

Churro Apple Pie Cups

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 30-33 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in our delectable Churro Apple Pie Cups recipe! Learn how to create these irresistible treats that blend the flavors of cinnamon, apples, and flaky pastry. Perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 package of refrigerated pie crusts (14 ounces (397 g) or 397 grams)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) granulated sugar (100 grams)
• 2 teaspoons (10 ml) ground cinnamon (5 grams)
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil, melted (28 grams)
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 2 cups (480 ml) or 240 grams)
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice (15 milliliters)
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) packed light brown sugar (55 grams)
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) all-purpose flour (8 grams)
• 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) ground nutmeg (1 gram)
• 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) ground cloves (0.5 grams)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Unroll the pie crusts and cut them into circles using a round cutter.
3. Press each circle into the cups of a muffin tin to form a cup shape.
4. In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
5. Brush the insides of the pie crust cups with melted butter.
6. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly inside each pie crust cup.
7. In a separate bowl, combine the diced apples and lemon juice.
8. Add the light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the apple mixture.
9. Stir until the apples are well coated with the sugar and spices.
10. Spoon the apple mixture evenly into each pie crust cup.
11. Brush the edges of the pie crust cups with a little more melted butter.
12. Sprinkle any remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture over the apple-filled cups.
13. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
14. Remove from the oven and let the churro apple pie cups cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes.
15. Carefully remove the cups from the muffin tin and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
16. Serve the churro apple pie cups warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• Ensure the apples are diced into small, uniform pieces for even distribution in the pie cups.
• Brush the pie crust cups with melted butter before adding the cinnamon-sugar mixture for added flavor and to help the sugar adhere.
• Allow the churro apple pie cups to cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes before removing to prevent them from breaking apart.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 160
• Fat: 5g
• Protein: 1g

Keywords: churro cups, apple pie, dessert recipe, cinnamon sugar, baked treats, sweet pastry

Mastering Churro Apple Pie Cups

Fundamentals

To create the perfect Churro Apple Pie Cups, start with the essentials: refrigerated pie crusts, apples, and a blend of spices. The pie crusts serve as the base, providing a flaky and buttery texture that complements the sweet apple filling. The spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—infuse the filling with warmth and depth, elevating the flavor profile.

Choosing the right apples is crucial. Opt for varieties that hold their shape during baking, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the sugars, resulting in a well-rounded filling. The addition of lemon juice enhances the apple’s natural flavors while preventing browning.

Understanding these fundamental ingredients sets the stage for creating a memorable dessert. By focusing on quality and balance, you’ll ensure each Churro Apple Pie Cup is bursting with flavor and texture.

Preparation/setup

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a crisp crust. Unroll the pie crusts and use a round cutter to create circles that will form the base of your cups. Press each circle into a muffin tin, shaping them into cups that will hold the apple filling.

Next, prepare the cinnamon-sugar mixture by combining granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This mixture will coat the insides of the pie crust cups, adding a churro-like flavor and texture. Brush the inside of each cup with melted butter before sprinkling the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring even coverage.

In a separate bowl, combine diced apples with lemon juice, light brown sugar, flour, and spices. Mix until the apples are well-coated, creating a fragrant filling ready to be spooned into the prepared pie crust cups. This preparation stage is vital for achieving the right balance of sweetness and spice.

Refining the Art of Churro Apple Pie Cups

Technique

Baking these Churro Apple Pie Cups to perfection involves a few key techniques. First, ensure the apple filling is evenly distributed among the pie crust cups. This ensures consistent baking and avoids overfilling, which can lead to spillage.

Brushing the edges of the pie crust cups with melted butter before baking creates a golden, flaky finish. The butter not only enhances the flavor but also helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture adhere, giving each cup its signature churro effect.

Bake the cups for 15–18 minutes, or until the crusts are golden brown. Keep an eye on them in the final minutes of baking to avoid over-browning. The goal is a perfectly crisp exterior that contrasts with the soft, juicy apple filling.

Tips/tricks

For a fun twist, consider adding a drizzle of caramel over the apple mixture before baking. This adds a rich, buttery note that complements the spices beautifully. If you enjoy exploring new flavor combinations, try incorporating a pinch of ginger into the spice mix for a subtle kick.

When pressing the pie crusts into the muffin tin, use gentle pressure to ensure they form well-defined cups. This prevents them from collapsing during baking and helps them maintain their shape. Additionally, consider using a silicone muffin tin for easy removal after baking.

If you’re looking for more apple dessert inspiration, check out these Caramel Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls or these Baked Apple Pie Rice Paper Rolls for unique apple-infused treats.

Enhancing Your Churro Apple Pie Cups

Perfecting results

Perfecting Churro Apple Pie Cups involves a balance of flavor and texture. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients to ensure the best results. The combination of sweet and tart flavors, along with the warm spices, creates a comforting and irresistible dessert.

To achieve the ideal texture, allow the cups to cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes after baking. This helps them set, making removal easier and reducing the risk of breakage. Once removed, place them on a wire rack to cool completely, preserving their crispness.

If you encounter any issues, such as undercooked apples, consider pre-cooking the apple mixture slightly before filling the cups. This ensures they are tender and fully cooked in the final product, especially if you prefer softer apples.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your pie crusts tend to become soggy, try sprinkling a thin layer of crushed graham crackers or oats at the bottom before adding the apple filling. This simple trick can help absorb excess moisture and maintain the crust’s crispness.

For a delightful variation, substitute the apples with pears or peaches. Both fruits work beautifully with the spice blend and offer a different flavor profile. Experiment with different combinations to discover your favorite version.

If you love the combination of cinnamon and apples, you might also enjoy these Cinnamon Rolls and Apple Pie Filling. They offer a similar flavor experience with a unique twist.

Serving and Enjoying Churro Apple Pie Cups

Serving/presentation

Presentation plays a key role in enhancing the appeal of your Churro Apple Pie Cups. Serve them warm or at room temperature, garnished with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Arrange them on a platter for a visually appealing display that invites guests to indulge.

For an added touch, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the warm spices and crisp crust, creating a harmonious dessert experience.

If you’re hosting a gathering, these cups make an excellent addition to a dessert buffet. Their individual serving size makes them convenient for guests to enjoy without needing utensils. Consider offering a variety of toppings, such as caramel sauce or chopped nuts, for a customizable experience.

Pairings/storage

Churro Apple Pie Cups pair well with a range of beverages, from coffee to hot cider. Their versatile flavor profile makes them suitable for any occasion, whether it’s a casual brunch or a festive holiday gathering.

To store leftovers, place the cooled cups in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy, or reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispness.

For more apple-inspired creations, explore this Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples recipe, which offers a delightful side dish or dessert option.

Conclusion

Churro Apple Pie Cups offer a delicious twist on a classic dessert, combining the comforting flavors of apple pie with the fun texture of churros. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make them an accessible and delightful treat for any occasion.

These cups showcase the beauty of transforming basic ingredients into something truly special, capturing the essence of shared meals and cherished memories. Whether you’re serving them at a festive gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, they promise to bring joy and satisfaction to all who indulge.

With the right techniques and a touch of creativity, you can create a memorable dessert that highlights the magic of home cooking. Embrace the opportunity to explore new flavors and make these Churro Apple Pie Cups a staple in your culinary repertoire.

FAQs – Churro Apple Pie Cups