Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

Name: Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-488192H30M58S
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 160 g all-purpose flour; 60 g powdered sugar; 115 g unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1 egg yolk; 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

Recipe By:

Stephanie

Posted:

August 2, 2025

Updated:

August 2, 2025

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Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

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These Mini Shortbread Pies with Berry & Apple Filling are a delightful treat that combines buttery shortbread with a cozy mix of sweet apples and berries. Perfect for tea time, dessert, or any celebration, these mini pies offer a unique twist on classic flavors. Their charming size makes them an ideal addition to gatherings, and their delicious taste will leave everyone asking for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough to wow guests.
Versatile Filling: Swap in your favorite fruits or berries for a personalized touch.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual afternoon tea, these pies fit right in.
Buttery Flavor: The rich shortbread crust complements the sweet filling beautifully.
Beautiful Presentation: Mini pies are not only tasty but also visually appealing on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making these delightful mini pies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Rolling pin
Pie dish or muffin tin
Baking paper
Oven

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly and easily.
Rolling pin: Helps you roll out the dough to the perfect thickness for your crust.
Pie dish or muffin tin: Provides the ideal shape for your mini pies, ensuring even baking.

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: Make the Shortbread Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and powdered sugar.
Add the cold, cubed butter and mix until crumbly.
Stir in the egg yolk until combined. If the dough is too dry, add cold water one tablespoon at a time until it holds together.
Press the dough into your pie dish or muffin tin evenly across the bottom and up the sides. Chill while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, mix together the diced apple, mixed berries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Fill each shortbread crust with the berry and apple mixture.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove from oven and let cool before serving.

Enjoy these delightful Mini Shortbread Pies with Berry & Apple Filling as a perfect way to end any meal!

How to Serve Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

These delightful mini shortbread pies are perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon tea or a festive holiday gathering, serving them can be as creative as the recipe itself.

Pair with Creamy Whipped Cream

Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a rich texture that complements the sweetness of the filling.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of vanilla ice cream enhances the pie’s flavors and provides a refreshing contrast to the buttery crust.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

A sweet indulgence, caramel sauce brings a luscious touch that pairs beautifully with the fruity filling.

Accompany with Fresh Mint Leaves

Fresh mint leaves add a burst of color and a hint of freshness that brightens up the dessert.

How to Perfect Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

Perfecting your mini shortbread pie is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.

Chill the Dough: Make sure to chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling. This helps maintain its shape during baking.
Use Cold Ingredients: Keep your butter and water cold. Cold ingredients create a flakier crust that melts in your mouth.
Don’t Overmix: Mix your dough just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough shortbread pies instead of tender ones.
Brush with Egg Wash: Before baking, brush the tops with an egg wash. This gives your pies a lovely golden color.

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

To enhance your dessert experience, consider pairing these mini shortbread pies with some delicious side dishes. The right sides can complement their flavors beautifully.

Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, provides a savory contrast to the sweet pie.
Herbed Scones: Savory scones infused with herbs add depth and pair well with the sweet filling.
Tea Selection: Offer a variety of teas, from herbal to black, which can highlight different flavors in the pie.
Nut Medley: A mix of salted and roasted nuts adds crunch and complexity, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Rich chocolate sauce offers a decadent dip option for those who want an extra treat alongside their pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making mini shortbread pies can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for.

Overworking the dough: When making the shortbread crust, avoid mixing too much. Overworking can make the crust tough rather than tender. Mix just until combined.
Ignoring temperature: Using cold butter is crucial for flaky pastry. Ensure your butter is cold and cubed before mixing it into the flour.
Not chilling the crust: Skipping the chilling step can lead to shrinking during baking. Chill your crust for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Using too much filling: Overfilling your pies can cause them to spill over while baking. Stick to the recommended amount of filling for best results.
Skipping the cornstarch: Cornstarch helps thicken the filling and keeps it from becoming runny. Don’t leave it out for a better texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store mini shortbread pies in an airtight container.
They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pies on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat individual pies on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making mini shortbread pies.

Can I use different fruits in the Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling?

Yes! Feel free to substitute other fruits like peaches or pears based on your taste preferences.

How do I prevent my filling from being runny?

Adding cornstarch helps absorb excess moisture, keeping your filling thick and enjoyable.

Can I make the shortbread crust ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the crust and refrigerate it overnight before using it.

What can I serve with Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling?

These pies pair wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?

Yes! These mini pies make an excellent dessert for gatherings, holidays, or cozy family dinners.

Final Thoughts

The Mini Shortbread Pie with Berry & Apple Filling is not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize it with various fruits or spices to suit your taste. This recipe is perfect for dessert or tea time, so give it a try and enjoy its comforting flavors!