Apple Pie Bites Recipe – Easy Fall Finger Food Treats to Make

The first time I made apple pie bites, the kitchen smelled like a cozy autumn morning—warm cinnamon, buttery pastry, and apples that practically begged to be eaten right out of the oven. You know those days when you crave something homemade but don’t have the energy for a full-blown pie? That’s exactly why these apple pie bites were born in my house. Honestly, they’re the kind of treat that disappears before you can even snap a photo for Pinterest (been there!).

I stumbled on the idea years ago after a fall potluck, when I needed something easy, bite-sized, and packed with classic apple pie flavor. Let’s face it, slicing a whole pie at a crowded table is messy—apple pie bites are the perfect solution. They’re soft, flaky, just the right amount of sweet, and totally poppable. My kids call them “apple pillows,” and I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve whipped up a batch for friends, bake sales, and even breakfast (don’t judge until you’ve tried them with coffee!).

Apple pie bites are more than a shortcut—they’re a celebration of fall’s best flavors, made easy for busy cooks and hungry snackers. If you’re looking for a treat that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds, this apple pie bites recipe is it. I’ve tested, tweaked, and perfected these little wonders over a dozen times, so you can trust they’ll turn out golden and delicious every single time. Whether you’re new to baking or a pie pro, these bites bring the joy of homemade apple pie into the palm of your hand—no forks required.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I’ve baked my way through plenty of apple desserts, and these apple pie bites stand out every time. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe (just like my family and Pinterest followers have):

• Quick & Easy: From start to finish, these bites are ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.
• Simple Ingredients: No special trips to the grocery store. You probably have everything you need in your pantry right now.
• Perfect for Fall Gatherings: These are a hit at potlucks, parties, or just cozy nights in. They look adorable on any snack table.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids love them (seriously, my picky eater devours these), and adults appreciate the classic apple pie flavor in a fun, easy-to-eat form.
• Unbelievably Delicious: Flaky pastry, gooey apple filling, and a hint of cinnamon sugar—each bite is pure comfort.

What makes my apple pie bites recipe different? I use a blend of tart and sweet apples for depth of flavor, and a simple trick: rolling crescent dough with a mix of brown sugar and cinnamon before wrapping the apples. The result is a bite that’s both crisp and soft, with caramel-like edges and a warm, spiced center.

After dozens of batches, I can say these bites always turn out golden and delicious. They’re the kind of treat you close your eyes for after the first bite—warm, nostalgic, and just a little bit magical. Whether you need something for a brunch spread or a quick dessert, these apple pie bites guarantee smiles without the stress of pie-making. One batch and you’ll see why this recipe is a favorite in my kitchen!

Ingredients Needed

This apple pie bites recipe calls for wholesome, everyday ingredients that come together for bold, comforting flavor. You won’t need anything fancy—just simple staples and a few optional extras for that wow factor.

• For the apple filling:
  • 1 large tart apple (Granny Smith works best, peeled, cored, and sliced into 8 wedges)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed—adds a lovely caramel note)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (fresh spice makes a world of difference!)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (cut into 8 tiny pieces, for extra richness)
• For the pastry:
  • 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough (8-count; use regular or reduce-fat—both work)
• For the topping:
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
  • 1/2 teaspoon extra cinnamon (optional, for extra spice)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (for a crunchy finish)
• For the glaze (optional):
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1-2 teaspoons milk (any kind you like)
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions:

• Apples: Granny Smith gives a tangy bite, but Honeycrisp or Fuji makes sweeter bites. Use what you have—don’t stress!
• Crescent dough: If you can’t find crescent rolls, puff pastry or pie dough works (just cut into triangles).
• Butter: Swap for coconut oil for dairy-free.
• Brown sugar: Coconut sugar or maple sugar are nice if you want a less processed sweetener.
• Glaze: Skip it for lower sugar, or use dairy-free milk for allergies.
• Nuts: Omit for nut-free, or use seeds if you like some crunch.

I usually use store-brand crescent rolls—no need to get fancy. If you’re making these in summer, toss in a handful of fresh berries with the apple for a twist. These ingredients are flexible, forgiving, and totally pantry-friendly.

Equipment Needed

Good news: you don’t need a fancy kitchen setup to make apple pie bites! Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

• Baking sheet (I use a rimmed sheet for catching caramel drips)
• Parchment paper (makes cleanup a breeze, but foil works in a pinch)
• Small mixing bowl (for tossing apples with sugar and cinnamon)
• Sharp paring knife (for peeling and slicing apples—watch those fingers!)
• Measuring spoons and cups (for precise sugar and spice blends)
• Basting brush (optional, for brushing with butter or glaze)
• Oven mitts (nobody likes a burnt hand…trust me, I’ve been there)

Alternatives & Tips:

• No parchment? Butter the baking sheet lightly—just be ready for a little caramel sticking.
• If you don’t have a basting brush, use the back of a spoon for the glaze.
• Budget-friendly tip: I’ve made these on an old pizza pan and they turn out just fine!
• Keep your knife sharp—dull blades are more dangerous and make slicing apples a chore.

After years of baking, my only must-have is parchment paper for easy cleanup. Everything else is flexible!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
   
   Prep time: about 5 minutes.
2. Prep the apples: Peel, core, and slice your apple into 8 even wedges. If your apple is huge, cut slightly thinner wedges so they bake through (they should be about 1/2-inch thick).
   
   Tip: If apples start browning, toss wedges in a little lemon juice.
3. Mix the filling: In a small bowl, toss apple wedges with brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Make sure each slice gets coated—this helps every bite taste amazing.
   
   Prep time: 2 minutes.
4. Prepare the dough: Unroll crescent dough and separate into triangles. Lay them out flat on your parchment-lined sheet.
   
   Warning: Crescent dough can be sticky—flour your hands lightly if needed.
5. Add the apples: Place one coated apple wedge at the wide end of each triangle. Top the apple with a tiny piece of butter.
   
   Sensory cue: The dough should feel soft but not sticky; apples should be glistening from the sugar.
6. Roll them up: Roll each triangle up around the apple, starting from the wide end. Curve the ends slightly so they look like little croissants.
   
   Efficiency tip: Roll gently so the filling stays inside.
7. Top and finish: Mix granulated sugar with extra cinnamon. Sprinkle over each bite. Add chopped nuts if you like a crunchy finish.
   
   Prep time: 1 minute.
8. Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 13–16 minutes (until golden brown and the apples are soft).
   
   Sensory cue: You’ll smell cinnamon and see bubbling, caramelized edges.
   
   Troubleshooting: If bites are browning too fast, reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and cover loosely with foil.
9. Glaze (optional): Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm bites with a spoon or brush.
   
   Prep time: 2 minutes.
10. Cool and serve: Let apple pie bites cool for 5 minutes before serving. They’re best warm, but also delicious at room temp.

Personal tip: I always sneak one as soon as they come out of the oven (they’re irresistible!). If the dough sticks to the parchment, let the bites cool a minute—then they’ll lift right off without tearing.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here’s what I’ve learned after making apple pie bites more times than I can count:

• Choose the right apple: Tart apples like Granny Smith hold shape and balance the sweet filling. Sweeter apples make for gooier bites, but can get mushy if overbaked.
• Dough handling: Crescent dough tears easily—keep it cold and handle gently. If it gets too sticky, pop it in the fridge for five minutes.
• Even rolling: Don’t overstuff the bites! Too much filling, and they’ll pop open (I learned this the hard way). A thin apple wedge is perfect.
• Watch the bake time: Every oven’s a bit different. Start checking at 13 minutes—look for deep golden color and bubbling caramel at the edges.
• Batch baking: For a crowd, double the recipe but keep space between bites—they expand!
• Prevent soggy bottoms: Use a rimmed sheet and parchment. If you see a lot of moisture, drain apples briefly before wrapping.

Common mistakes? Overfilling, rushing the rolling, and forgetting to line the baking sheet. I once tried using wax paper (bad idea—it’s not oven-safe!). For multitasking, prep apples and mix sugar while the oven preheats. If you want super crisp bites, brush the tops with a little extra melted butter before baking.

Consistency tip: Stick to the same-sized apple wedges and dough triangles for even baking. After a few batches, you’ll get a feel for what works best in your kitchen!

Variations & Adaptations

Apple pie bites are endlessly customizable—here are a few ways to make them your own:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crescent dough or pie dough. The bites turn out just as flaky and delicious.
• Dairy-Free: Swap butter for coconut oil and use non-dairy milk in the glaze.
• Seasonal Flavors: Add a pinch of pumpkin spice or ground ginger for a cozy fall twist. In spring, swap apples for diced pears or fresh berries.
• Nut-Free: Skip nuts and add a sprinkle of coarse sugar for a crunchy top.
• Extra Caramel: Place a caramel candy with the apple wedge before rolling for gooey, caramel apple bites.

I’ve tried stuffing a few bites with cream cheese sweetened with maple syrup—such a rich, creamy surprise! For a more savory spin, sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt over the tops before baking. There’s really no wrong way to enjoy these—mix and match to fit your cravings or dietary needs.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Apple pie bites taste best served warm, straight off the baking sheet. Arrange them on a pretty platter and drizzle with glaze for a Pinterest-worthy look. They pair perfectly with hot apple cider, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream (trust me, that combo is a winner!).

For parties, I like to set out toothpicks for easy grabbing—no sticky fingers. If you’re packing them for lunchboxes or road trips, wrap each bite in wax paper and tuck in an airtight container.

To store, keep leftovers in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze (for up to 2 months). Reheat bites in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes, or microwave for about 15 seconds. The flavors actually deepen after a day, with the cinnamon and apple soaking into the pastry—so don’t worry if you have extras!

Pro tip: If freezing, skip the glaze until after reheating for best texture.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each apple pie bite (without glaze) contains about 90–110 calories, 3g fat, 15g carbs, and 1g protein. Adding glaze or nuts bumps up calories a bit, but honestly, they’re still lighter than a full slice of pie.

Key ingredients like apples bring fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Using whole grain or reduced-fat crescent rolls can lower fat and increase fiber. The recipe is easy to adapt for gluten-free or dairy-free diets, keeping it accessible for most folks. Allergens to watch for: wheat, dairy, and nuts (if using).

I love that these bites satisfy my sweet tooth without going overboard on sugar—plus, the real fruit makes them feel a little more wholesome. For me, they’re an easy way to sneak a little fruit into dessert!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for the ultimate fall finger food, these apple pie bites are the answer. Quick to make, easy to eat, and bursting with classic apple pie flavor—what’s not to love? Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just for yourself, this recipe is the kind you’ll turn to again and again.

Feel free to play with flavors, mix in your favorite nuts, or swap apples for pears when the mood strikes. That’s the magic of homemade baking—it’s all about making it your own. Personally, I keep this recipe on standby for every fall gathering and lazy weekend morning (with a big mug of coffee, of course!).

I’d love to hear how you make these apple pie bites your own! Leave a comment, share your photos, or tag me on Pinterest—there’s nothing better than seeing your delicious creations. Happy baking, and may your kitchen always smell like cinnamon and apples!

FAQs

Can I make apple pie bites ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prep and refrigerate the rolled bites up to 12 hours before baking. Bake fresh for best texture.

What kind of apples work best?

Granny Smith is my go-to for tartness and texture, but Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work well for sweeter bites.

How do I keep the bites from getting soggy?

Make sure apples are sliced thin and toss with sugar right before assembly. Bake on parchment for crisp bottoms.

Can I freeze apple pie bites?

Yes! Freeze after baking (without glaze). Thaw and reheat in the oven before serving, then add glaze.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes, or microwave for 15 seconds. They taste great warm or at room temp!

Apple Pie Bites

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• Author: Emily Rhodes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 8 bites 1x

Print Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

Apple pie bites are a quick and easy fall treat featuring flaky crescent dough wrapped around cinnamon-sugar apples. These bite-sized desserts are perfect for gatherings, bake sales, or cozy mornings, delivering classic apple pie flavor in a poppable, finger-friendly form.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 large tart apple (Granny Smith preferred, peeled, cored, and sliced into 8 wedges)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into 8 tiny pieces
• 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough (8-count)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
• 1/2 teaspoon extra cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (optional, for glaze)
• 1–2 teaspoons milk (any kind, optional, for glaze)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for glaze)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Peel, core, and slice the apple into 8 even wedges (about 1/2-inch thick).
3. In a small bowl, toss apple wedges with brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon until evenly coated.
4. Unroll crescent dough and separate into 8 triangles. Lay them flat on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Place one coated apple wedge at the wide end of each triangle. Top each apple with a piece of butter.
6. Roll up each triangle around the apple, starting from the wide end. Curve the ends slightly to resemble croissants.
7. Mix granulated sugar with extra cinnamon. Sprinkle over each bite. Add chopped nuts if desired.
8. Bake for 13–16 minutes, until golden brown and apples are soft. If browning too quickly, reduce heat to 350°F and cover loosely with foil.
9. For glaze (optional): Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm bites.
10. Let bites cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Use tart apples for best texture; sweeter apples yield softer bites. Crescent dough can be swapped for puff pastry or pie dough. For gluten-free or dairy-free, use appropriate dough and coconut oil. Don’t overfill bites to prevent bursting. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, refrigerate up to 5 days, or freeze for 2 months. Glaze after reheating for best texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bite
• Calories: 100
• Sugar: 7
• Sodium: 120
• Fat: 3
• Saturated Fat: 1.5
• Carbohydrates: 15
• Fiber: 1
• Protein: 1

Keywords: apple pie bites, fall dessert, finger food, easy apple recipe, crescent roll dessert, apple cinnamon, potluck treat, kid-friendly, autumn baking