If you’re looking for a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert, Apple Pie Bombs are the perfect choice. These bite-sized treats capture all the warm, comforting flavors of traditional apple pie in a compact, easy-to-make form. Crispy on the outside, filled with gooey cinnamon-spiced apple filling on the inside, these “bombs” are a delightful dessert that’s great for holidays, potlucks, or a cozy family gathering.
Why You’ll Love Apple Pie Bombs
1. All the Flavors of Apple Pie in One Bite
With the perfect balance of sweet, spiced apple filling and buttery, golden crust, Apple Pie Bombs are an irresistible twist on the classic dessert. Each bite is like a mini apple pie, making it the perfect portion for dessert lovers.
2. Quick and Easy to Make
Unlike traditional apple pies, which can take hours to prepare, Apple Pie Bombs come together in under 30 minutes. Using pre-made ingredients like refrigerated biscuit dough and canned apple pie filling streamlines the process without compromising flavor.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion
From casual family nights to holiday gatherings, Apple Pie Bombs are versatile and fit every occasion. They’re easy to serve, require no slicing, and are portable, making them ideal for parties or picnics.
Ingredients for Apple Pie Bombs
- 1 can (8 pieces) refrigerated biscuit dough
- 1 cup apple pie filling (canned or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Optional Toppings: Powdered sugar, caramel drizzle, or whipped cream.
Step-by-Step Recipe: Apple Pie Bombs
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Chop the apple pie filling into smaller pieces if the apple slices are too large. This makes it easier to fill the bombs.
2. Flatten the Dough
- Separate the biscuit dough pieces and gently flatten each one into a small disc, about 4–5 inches in diameter.
3. Fill with Apple Pie Filling
- Spoon about 1–2 tablespoons of the apple pie filling onto the center of each dough disc. Be careful not to overfill, as it can make sealing the dough difficult.
4. Seal and Shape
- Bring the edges of the dough up and around the filling, pinching them tightly to seal. Roll the sealed dough into a smooth ball and place it seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush with Butter and Coat
- Brush the tops of each ball with melted butter. In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle or roll the buttered bombs in the mixture for a sweet, spiced coating.
6. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the bombs are golden brown and puffed up. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Perfect Apple Pie Bombs
1. Use Quality Ingredients
The better the ingredients, the better the final result. Opt for high-quality refrigerated biscuit dough and a flavorful apple pie filling. If you have the time, making homemade apple pie filling adds an extra layer of deliciousness.
2. Seal the Dough Tightly
Ensuring the dough is fully sealed prevents the filling from leaking during baking. If you notice any gaps, pinch them closed or use a little water to help seal the edges.
3. Customize the Toppings
Get creative with the toppings to elevate your Apple Pie Bombs. Drizzle with caramel sauce, sprinkle with powdered sugar, or add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. For a festive touch, serve with a side of vanilla ice cream.
For additional storage and reheating tips, visit What Is the Best Way to Store Baked Cookies?.
Serving and Gifting Ideas
1. Perfect Party Desserts
Serve Apple Pie Bombs warm on a platter with decorative garnishes like cinnamon sticks or fresh apple slices. These handheld treats make it easy for guests to enjoy dessert without the need for plates or utensils.
2. Edible Holiday Gifts
Wrap cooled bombs individually in clear cellophane and tie them with a festive ribbon. Include a small card with reheating instructions and pair them with a homemade gift like Pumpkin Bread Truffles for a thoughtful gift basket.
3. Dessert Spreads
Add Apple Pie Bombs to a dessert table alongside other baked goods like Christmas Oreo Balls or How to Make Halloween Monster Cookies. Use tiered serving trays to create a visually appealing presentation.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days for extended freshness.
- Reheating: Warm the bombs in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or in the microwave for 20–30 seconds to restore their crispy exterior and gooey interior.
Variations and Customizations for Apple Pie Bombs
The beauty of Apple Pie Bombs lies in their versatility. Here are some fun ways to tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or make them even more festive:
1. Add a Caramel Twist
- Place a small piece of caramel candy inside the dough along with the apple filling. As the bombs bake, the caramel melts, adding a gooey surprise to each bite.
- Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the baked bombs for an extra layer of indulgence.
2. Make It Nutty
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the apple filling before sealing the dough. The nuts add a satisfying crunch and complement the spiced apple flavors beautifully.
- Roll the sealed bombs in a mixture of cinnamon, sugar, and finely chopped nuts before baking for a unique coating.
3. Try Different Fillings
- Pumpkin Pie Bombs: Substitute the apple filling with pumpkin pie filling for a seasonal twist.
- Berry Bombs: Use mixed berry pie filling for a tart, fruity variation.
- Savory Bombs: Replace the sweet filling with a mixture of brie cheese and apple slices for a sweet-savory appetizer.
4. Use Different Doughs
- Puff pastry creates a flaky, buttery texture for a more elegant presentation.
- Crescent roll dough offers a lighter, airier crust and is just as easy to work with.
Pairing Ideas for Apple Pie Bombs
These versatile treats pair well with a variety of beverages and other desserts, making them ideal for creating a complete dessert experience.
1. Beverage Pairings
- Serve Apple Pie Bombs warm with a cup of spiced cider or mulled wine for a cozy autumnal treat.
- Pair them with Homemade Hot Chocolate topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- For a refreshing option, serve with iced tea or sparkling apple soda.
2. Dessert Platters
- Add Apple Pie Bombs to a dessert platter with festive treats like Christmas Oreo Balls and Pumpkin Bread Truffles.
- Create a seasonal spread by including desserts with complementary flavors, such as spiced cookies or mini cheesecakes.
Hosting and Gifting Ideas
Hosting a Fall-Themed Party
- Use Apple Pie Bombs as the star dessert at a fall-themed gathering. Arrange them on a rustic wooden tray, garnished with cinnamon sticks and fresh apple slices for decoration.
- For added flair, provide small ramekins of caramel sauce and whipped cream for guests to customize their bombs.
Edible Holiday Gifts
Apple Pie Bombs make fantastic edible gifts. Here’s how to package them beautifully:
- Cellophane Wrapping: Wrap individual bombs in clear cellophane, tie with a ribbon, and add a tag with reheating instructions.
- Festive Boxes: Arrange the bombs in a small holiday box lined with parchment paper. Include a handwritten note for a personal touch.
- Gift Baskets: Pair the bombs with other baked goods like Pumpkin Bread Truffles and a jar of homemade apple butter for a complete gift set.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Puff Pastry Instead of Biscuit Dough?
Yes! Puff pastry creates a flakier texture and works well with the same filling and technique.
2. Can I Freeze Apple Pie Bombs?
Absolutely. Freeze unbaked bombs on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the baking time.
3. What Other Fillings Can I Use?
- Peach or Cherry Pie Filling: Swap the apple filling for a fruity variation.
- Nutella: Create a chocolatey version by using Nutella or another chocolate-hazelnut spread.
- Savory Options: Use cream cheese and diced apples for a sweet-savory twist.
Final Thoughts
Apple Pie Bombs are the ultimate quick dessert for any occasion. Their combination of crispy, buttery dough and gooey apple filling captures all the nostalgic flavors of classic apple pie in an easy-to-make treat. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a party, or as a gift, these bombs are guaranteed to be a hit.
Pair them with other crowd-pleasers like Pumpkin Bread Truffles and Christmas Oreo Balls for a dessert spread that’s sure to impress. Start baking your Apple Pie Bombs today, and enjoy the delicious explosion of flavor!