11 Make-Ahead Handheld Apple Desserts

11 Make-Ahead Handheld Apple Desserts

Mini Apple Pies

mini apple pie recipe

Mini apple pies are delightful, bite-sized treats that feature a delicious filling of spiced apples encased in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet snack at home, these mini desserts can be made ahead of time and are sure to please any apple lover with their warm, comforting flavors.

Ingredients Quantity
Apples (peeled and diced) 3 cups
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
Ground cinnamon 1 tsp
Ground nutmeg 1/4 tsp
All-purpose flour 2 tbsp
Lemon juice 1 tbsp
Pie crust (store-bought or homemade) Enough for 12 mini pies
Egg (beaten, for egg wash) 1

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and lemon juice; mix well.
  3. Roll out the pie crust and cut out circles to fit into a mini muffin tin.
  4. Press the circles into the muffin tins and fill each with the apple mixture.
  5. Top with another circle of dough, crimping the edges to seal. Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before serving or store in an airtight container for later.
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Apple Hand Pies

apple filled pastry delights

Apple hand pies are a delightful and portable dessert option, featuring a flaky pastry crust filled with a warm, spiced apple mixture. Perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or a sweet treat at home, these hand pies can be made ahead of time and are great for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients Quantity
Apples (peeled and diced) 4 cups
Granulated sugar 1/2 cup
Brown sugar 1/4 cup
Ground cinnamon 1 tsp
Ground nutmeg 1/4 tsp
Lemon juice 1 tbsp
All-purpose flour 2 tbsp
Pie crust (store-bought or homemade) Enough for 8 hand pies
Egg (beaten, for egg wash) 1
Milk (for brushing) 1 tbsp

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, mix the diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until well combined.
  3. Roll out the pie crust and cut into 5-inch circles.
  4. Place a spoonful of the apple mixture in the center of each circle, then fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and crimp the edges to seal.
  5. Brush the tops with the beaten egg and a splash of milk for a golden finish.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the hand pies are golden brown, then cool before serving or store in an airtight container for later.
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Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

delicious caramel apple cheesecake bars

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a deliciously decadent dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, tart flavor of apples and a luscious caramel topping. These bars offer a delightful texture contrast with a buttery crust, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for gatherings or just to enjoy at home.

Ingredients Quantity
Graham cracker crumbs 1 1/2 cups
Unsalted butter (melted) 1/2 cup
Granulated sugar 1/3 cup
Cream cheese 2 (8 oz) packages
Eggs 2 large
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
Sour cream 1/2 cup
Apples (peeled, sliced) 2 cups
Ground cinnamon 1 tsp
Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade) 1/2 cup
Chopped nuts (optional) 1/4 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/3 cup of sugar, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and sour cream.
  4. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and spread the sliced apples evenly on top. Sprinkle with cinnamon.
  5. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the center is set. Let cool completely, then drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with nuts if desired.
  6. Cut into bars, refrigerate, and then serve when ready.
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Apple Cinnamon Roll-Ups

delicious apple cinnamon roll ups

Apple Cinnamon Roll-Ups are a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and apples wrapped in soft tortillas, making them an easy and fun dessert to prepare ahead of time. These roll-ups can be enjoyed warm from the oven or served cold, making them versatile for any occasion.

Ingredients Quantity
Flour tortillas 4 large
Apples (peeled and diced) 2 cups
Granulated sugar 1/2 cup
Ground cinnamon 2 tsp
Unsalted butter (melted) 1/4 cup
Brown sugar 1/4 cup
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
Powdered sugar (for dusting) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, combine the diced apples with granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.
  3. Lay a tortilla flat and brush with melted butter, then add a portion of the apple mixture and a sprinkle of brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll the tortilla tightly.
  4. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
  5. Drizzle any remaining melted butter over the roll-ups and sprinkle with additional cinnamon and sugar if desired.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
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Apple Crumb Bars

apple filled crumb dessert bars

Apple Crumb Bars are a scrumptious dessert that features layers of sweet, spiced apple filling nestled between a buttery crumb crust and topping. These bars are perfect for making ahead of time and are a delightful treat for any gathering or a cozy family night.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Baking powder 1 tsp
Ground cinnamon 1 tsp
Salt 1/2 tsp
Unsalted butter (melted) 3/4 cup
Eggs 1 large
Apples (peeled and sliced) 3 cups
Lemon juice 1 tbsp
Cornstarch 1 tbsp
Vanilla extract 1 tsp

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
  2. In a large bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the melted butter and egg until crumbly.
  3. Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust layer.
  4. In another bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice, cornstarch, and additional cinnamon if desired. Spread the apple mixture over the crust.
  5. Crumble the remaining mixture on top of the apple layer to create the topping.
  6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Allow to cool before slicing into bars. Enjoy!
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Baked Apple Chips

healthy baked apple chips

Baked Apple Chips are a delightful and healthy snack that showcases the natural sweetness of apples while providing a satisfying crunch. They are incredibly easy to prepare and can be made in advance, making them perfect for on-the-go munching or a guilt-free dessert alternative.

Ingredients Quantity
Apples (any variety) 4 large
Cinnamon 1 tsp
Sugar (optional) 1-2 tsp
Lemon juice 1 tbsp

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (93°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Core and thinly slice the apples – no need to peel.
  3. In a small bowl, mix cinnamon and sugar (if using). Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apple slices.
  4. Arrange the apple slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for about 2-3 hours, turning the slices halfway through, until crisp and dried.
  6. Remove from the oven and allow to cool before storing in an airtight container. Enjoy your healthy snack!
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Apple Scones With Cinnamon Glaze

apple scones with glaze

Apple Scones with Cinnamon Glaze are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. These tender, buttery scones are packed with fresh apple chunks and topped with a sweet cinnamon glaze, making them an irresistible choice for any apple lover.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Baking powder 1 tbsp
Baking soda 1/2 tsp
Salt 1/2 tsp
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup (cold, cubed)
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
Milk 1/2 cup
Egg 1 large
Apples (peeled, chopped) 1 cup
Cinnamon (for glaze) 1 tsp
Powdered sugar 1 cup
Milk (for glaze) 2-3 tbsp

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Stir in granulated sugar, chopped apples, milk, and egg until just combined.
  5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface, knead gently, and shape into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut into wedges and place on the baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
  7. For the glaze, mix powdered sugar, cinnamon, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled scones. Enjoy your delicious apple scones!
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Stuffed Apples With Oats and Nuts

baked oatmeal stuffed apples

Stuffed Apples with Oats and Nuts are a wholesome dessert that’s both healthy and satisfying. These baked apples are filled with a delicious mixture of oats, nuts, and spices, making them perfect for a cozy fall treat or a nutritious dessert any time of year.

Ingredients Quantity
Apples (large, cored) 4
Rolled oats 1 cup
Mixed nuts (chopped) 1/2 cup
Brown sugar 1/3 cup
Cinnamon 1 tsp
Nutmeg 1/4 tsp
Butter (melted) 2 tbsp
Honey (optional) 2 tbsp
Water 1/2 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, mix rolled oats, chopped nuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, melted butter, and honey (if using) until well combined.
  3. Fill each cored apple with the oat and nut mixture, packing it in gently.
  4. Place the stuffed apples in the prepared baking dish and pour water around them.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until apples are tender but still hold their shape.
  6. Serve warm and enjoy your nutritious stuffed apples!
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Apple Turnovers

delicious apple filled pastries

Apple Turnovers are a delightful pastry filled with sweet, spiced apples, all wrapped in a flaky crust. They’re perfect for a dessert, snack, or even breakfast, making them a versatile addition to your baking repertoire. You can make them ahead of time and freeze them, so they’re ready for whenever a sweet craving strikes.

Ingredients Quantity
Puff pastry sheets 2 (thawed)
Apples (peeled and diced) 2
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
Cinnamon 1 tsp
Lemon juice 1 tbsp
Butter (melted) 2 tbsp
Egg (beaten) 1 (for egg wash)
Flour (for dusting) As needed

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, combine diced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice; mix well.
  3. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut into squares, about 6 inches each.
  4. Place a spoonful of the apple mixture onto one half of each pastry square, then fold over and seal the edges with a fork.
  5. Brush the top of each turnover with beaten egg and cut a small slit on top for steam to escape.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious apple turnovers!
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Miniature Apple Galettes

rustic apple galette recipe

Miniature Apple Galettes are a charming and rustic dessert that encapsulates the deliciousness of apples wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust. These free-form tarts allow for creativity in presentation and can be made in advance, making them an ideal dessert for gatherings or cozy afternoons at home.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 ½ cups
Unsalted butter (chilled) 1/2 cup
Granulated sugar 3 tbsp
Ice water 3-4 tbsp
Apples (peeled and sliced) 2
Brown sugar 1/4 cup
Cinnamon 1 tsp
Nutmeg 1/4 tsp
Egg (beaten) 1 (for egg wash)
Sea salt A pinch

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a bowl, combine flour, cold butter, and granulated sugar until crumbly. Add ice water gradually until the dough comes together. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut it into four circles, about 5 inches in diameter.
  4. In another bowl, mix sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sea salt.
  5. Place the apple mixture in the center of each dough circle, leaving a border. Fold the edges over the apples, pleating as necessary.
  6. Brush the edges of each galette with the beaten egg to give them a golden color.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crusts are golden and the apples are tender. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious miniature apple galettes!

Apple Muffins With Streusel Topping

apple muffins with streusel

Apple Muffins with Streusel Topping are delightful, moist treats bursting with apple flavor and topped with a crunchy streusel layer. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, these muffins can be made ahead of time and stored for a few days, maintaining their freshness and deliciousness.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Baking powder 2 tsp
Baking soda 1/2 tsp
Salt 1/2 tsp
Ground cinnamon 1 tsp
Eggs 2
Unsweetened applesauce 1/2 cup
Vegetable oil 1/3 cup
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
Apples (peeled and chopped) 2 cups
Brown sugar 1/4 cup
Rolled oats 1/4 cup
Unsalted butter (melted) 2 tbsp
Ground cinnamon (for topping) 1/2 tsp

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, applesauce, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
  4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then fold in the chopped apples until evenly mixed.
  5. Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared muffin tin.
  6. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, oats, melted butter, and cinnamon to create the streusel topping. Sprinkle it over the muffin batter.
  7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool before serving. Enjoy your homemade apple muffins with streusel topping!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.