When the season transitions to autumn, visions of cozy gatherings, warm spices, and delicious treats instantly come to mind. Embrace the spirit of the season with a delightful dessert that embodies the essence of fall comfort – Pilgrim Pies. These miniature pies are perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring quietly by the fireside. Filled with a spiced apple-cranberry filling and wrapped in a flaky crust, these individual treats are a delightful addition to any autumn table.
**Pilgrim Pies**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2/3 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 6-8 tablespoons ice water
– 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 2 tablespoons coarse sugar (for sprinkling)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pie Crust:**
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. **Make the Filling:**
In a saucepan, combine the diced apples, dried cranberries, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture is slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
3. **Assemble the Pilgrim Pies:**
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out one of the chilled dough discs to 1/8-inch thickness. Using a round cutter, cut out circles of dough to fit your mini pie pans or muffin tin. Gently press the dough circles into the pans.
4. **Fill and Bake:**
Spoon the prepared apple-cranberry filling into each pie crust, filling them almost to the top. Roll out the second dough disc and cut out circles for the pie crust tops. You can create lattice tops, or fully cover the pies and make small slits for steam to escape. Brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
5. **Bake the pies:**
Place the assembled pies on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Remove from the oven and let the pies cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:**
These adorable Pilgrim Pies are best enjoyed warm, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Share with friends and family, or keep them all to yourself for a cozy autumn treat. These mini pies are a charming addition to any fall gathering, evoking the nostalgic flavors of the season.
Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a taste of fall, Pilgrim Pies are sure to delight your taste buds and warm your heart. Embrace the autumn ambiance with these delicious individual treats that celebrate the flavors of the season. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to bake up a batch of these adorable and comforting Pilgrim Pies.
