Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

These Mini Shortbread Pies with Berry & Apple Filling are a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a tea party, celebrating a special event, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these pies offer a perfect blend of buttery shortbread and a cozy fruit filling. The combination of sweet apples and vibrant berries creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love. Plus, their mini size makes them an adorable addition to your dessert table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The rich buttery crust pairs perfectly with the sweet and tart filling.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these pies ready in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them for dessert, tea time, or as a festive holiday snack.
• Perfect Portions: Mini size allows for easy serving and sharing at gatherings.
• Great for Any Season: The flavors work beautifully year-round, adapting to seasonal fruit availability.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your Mini Shortbread Pies with Berry & Apple Filling, having the right tools is essential. They help streamline the process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Pie dish or tart pan
• Baking sheet
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness in your shortbread crust.
• Pie dish or tart pan: Provides the perfect shape for your mini pies.

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 mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and powdered sugar.
2. Add the cold cubed butter to the mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in the egg yolk until combined. If the dough feels dry, add cold water one tablespoon at a time until it comes together.
4. Shape the dough into a disk and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In another bowl, combine diced apple, mixed berries, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Toss well to coat all fruits evenly.
2. Set aside to allow flavors to meld while you roll out the dough.

Step 3: Assemble the Pies

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled shortbread dough to about ¼ inch thickness.
3. Cut out circles of dough that are slightly larger than your pie dish or tart pan.
4. Gently press each circle into the bottom and sides of your pie dish/tart pan.

Step 4: Fill and Bake

1. Spoon the berry and apple mixture into each prepared crust evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
3. Allow cooling slightly before serving.

Enjoy these delightful mini pies warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

These delightful mini shortbread pies are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy tea time or a festive gathering, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Pair with Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each mini pie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added richness and a lovely presentation.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the warm, buttery crust and fruity filling perfectly.

Accompany with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these pies alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea to enhance their flavors during a relaxing afternoon.

Add a Berry Sauce Drizzle

• Drizzle some homemade or store-bought berry sauce over the pies for an extra burst of flavor and color on the plate.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• A few fresh mint leaves can add a refreshing touch and brighten up the dish visually.

How to Perfect Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

Perfecting your mini shortbread pies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use cold butter: Cold butter helps create a flaky crust. Make sure your butter is straight from the fridge before mixing.

• Chill the dough: After mixing your ingredients, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This will make it easier to roll out and shape.

• Don’t overwork the dough: Mix just until combined. Overworking can lead to tough pies, which you want to avoid.

• Adjust filling sweetness: Taste your fruit filling before baking. If needed, adjust the sugar according to your preference for sweetness.

• Check for doneness: Keep an eye on your pies while baking. They should be golden brown when done, usually around 25–30 minutes.

• Let them cool: Allow pies to cool slightly before serving. This helps set the filling and makes them easier to handle.

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

Pairing side dishes with your mini shortbread pies can enhance their appeal. Here are some excellent options that complement this dessert beautifully.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness alongside your rich dessert.

2. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses can create a delightful contrast in flavors, especially soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese.

3. Chocolate Sauce: Serve warm chocolate sauce as an indulgent dip for those who crave extra sweetness.

4. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a light and healthy balance to the richness of the pie.

5. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts provide a crunchy texture that pairs nicely with the soft filling of the pie.

6. Savory Tartlets: Small savory tarts filled with cheese or vegetables offer an interesting contrast in flavor profiles during your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Overworking the dough: Mixing the shortbread dough too much can lead to tough pies. Handle the dough gently and just until combined.
• Using warm butter: If your butter isn’t cold enough, the crust won’t be as flaky. Always use unsalted butter straight from the fridge.
• Skipping chilling time: Not chilling the pie crust can result in shrinking during baking. Allow it to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, so improper measurements can affect the outcome. Use a kitchen scale for precision.
• Ignoring fruit preparation: Failing to properly prepare your fruit can lead to uneven filling. Make sure apples are diced evenly and berries are clean.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

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 your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pies on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this may make them soggy.
• Stovetop: Place pies in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling that you might have.

Can I use other fruits for the filling?

Yes! You can substitute different berries or even use pears or peaches for a unique twist on this recipe.

How do I prevent my shortbread crust from burning?

Make sure to bake at the recommended temperature and check for doneness periodically. Cover edges with foil if they brown too quickly.

What type of berries work best?

Both fresh and frozen mixed berries work well. Raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries are great choices!

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend specifically designed for baking.

Final Thoughts

The Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling is an irresistible dessert that combines buttery shortbread with sweet fruit filling. It’s perfect for tea time or any gathering, and you can easily customize it by using your favorite fruits or spices. Give this delightful recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!