Introduction: A Perfect Blend of Biscuits and Apple Pie
Apple Pie Biscuits combine the warmth and sweetness of a traditional apple pie with the light, flaky texture of homemade biscuits. These biscuits are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of apple pie without having to bake a whole pie. The juicy, spiced apple filling nestled inside buttery biscuits, topped with a sweet glaze, makes these treats a favorite for breakfast, dessert, or any occasion.
The fusion of apple pie and biscuits is not only comforting but incredibly easy to prepare. You get the rich, aromatic cinnamon flavor and the crispness of baked apples, all wrapped in a biscuit that’s tender yet slightly crunchy on the outside. Whether served for breakfast with a cup of coffee or as an after-dinner dessert, Apple Pie Biscuits are sure to become a crowd-pleasing favorite in your home.
In this article, we’ll show you how to make these mouthwatering Apple Pie Biscuits from scratch, including tips, variations, and serving ideas that will elevate this simple recipe into a showstopper.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need for Apple Pie Biscuits
For the Biscuits:
To make the soft and flaky biscuits, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 3/4 cup buttermilk (or substitute with whole milk)
For the Apple Pie Filling:
For a sweet, spiced apple filling, gather these ingredients:
- 2 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the Glaze (Optional):
To finish your biscuits with a sweet, glossy drizzle, make a simple glaze with these ingredients:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons milk or cream
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Apple Pie Biscuits
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Pie Filling
Begin by making the apple pie filling. In a medium saucepan, combine:
- Diced apples
- Granulated sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Lemon juice
- Butter
Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften slightly and the mixture becomes syrupy. The goal is to infuse the apples with cinnamon flavor while creating a slightly thickened filling that will stay inside the biscuits. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Biscuits
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Sugar
- Salt
Next, cut the cold, cubed butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingers. The goal is to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter. This step is essential for achieving that light and flaky biscuit texture.
Gradually add 3/4 cup of buttermilk to the flour mixture, stirring gently until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this could result in dense biscuits. When the dough has formed, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times to bring it together.
Step 3: Add the Apple Pie Filling
Once the dough is ready, roll it out into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Spoon the cooled apple pie filling onto one half of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Fold the other half of the dough over the apple filling to create a pocket.
Gently press the edges together to seal the biscuits and ensure that the apple filling won’t spill out during baking. Use a biscuit cutter or a glass to cut the dough into rounds, pressing straight down to avoid twisting the cutter (which can affect how the biscuits rise).
Step 4: Bake the Biscuits
Place the biscuit rounds onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave space between them. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes of baking to ensure they don’t overbake. The tops should be golden and crisp, while the interior remains tender.
Once baked, remove the biscuits from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack.
Step 5: Make the Glaze and Serve
While the biscuits are cooling, whisk together the glaze ingredients:
- Powdered sugar
- Milk or cream
- Vanilla extract
Once the biscuits have cooled for a few minutes, drizzle the glaze generously over each biscuit. If desired, you can serve the biscuits with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Variation Ideas: Creative Twists on Apple Pie Biscuits
1. Add Nuts for Crunch
If you love the combination of apples and nuts, consider adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the apple pie filling. The nuts will add a delightful crunch and pair wonderfully with the sweetness of the apples and the buttery biscuits.
2. Make Mini Biscuits
For a fun twist, try making mini Apple Pie Biscuits. Use a smaller biscuit cutter and bake for slightly less time (about 10-12 minutes). These mini biscuits are perfect for serving at parties, gatherings, or for portion-controlled snacks.
3. Make It a Savory Version
If you prefer a savory flavor, skip the cinnamon and sugar. Instead, sauté onions, garlic, and cheddar cheese, and use this mixture as a filling for the biscuits. Serve these savory Apple Pie Biscuits as a side dish or appetizer.
4. Try Different Types of Apples
Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties. If you prefer sweeter apples, try using Fuji or Gala apples. For a more tart flavor, Granny Smith apples are perfect. Mixing sweet and tart apples can create a wonderful contrast of flavors in the filling.
COOKING Note: Tips for Perfect Apple Pie Biscuits
- Cold Butter is Crucial: Use cold butter when making the biscuit dough. This helps create a flaky texture in the biscuits. You can even place your butter in the freezer for 10 minutes before cutting it into the dough.
- Don’t Overmix: The key to tender biscuits is to mix the dough gently. Overmixing will result in tough biscuits. Mix until just combined and knead minimally.
- Chill the Dough: If you want the best texture, chill the dough for 15-20 minutes after mixing. This helps the dough hold its shape and results in a flakier biscuit.
- Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on your biscuits as they bake, especially in the last few minutes. The edges should be golden brown, and the tops should feel firm to the touch.
Serving Suggestions for Apple Pie Biscuits
- For Dessert: Serve these biscuits with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat. The warm biscuits paired with cold ice cream are a delicious contrast.
- For Breakfast: Enjoy these biscuits as part of your morning routine. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or a steaming mug of tea for a comforting breakfast.
- For Afternoon Tea: These biscuits are perfect for a light snack with afternoon tea. Their warm, cinnamon-spiced apple filling will complement a variety of teas, including black tea or Earl Grey.
Tips for Perfecting Your Apple Pie Biscuits
- Flour the Rolling Pin and Surface: When rolling out the dough, dust your surface and rolling pin with flour to prevent the dough from sticking.
- Use a Sharp Biscuit Cutter: When cutting out the biscuits, press straight down with a sharp biscuit cutter to ensure the biscuits rise evenly. Avoid twisting the cutter, as this can affect their shape.
- Let the Biscuits Rest: After baking, allow the biscuits to cool slightly on a wire rack. This will help them firm up and maintain their shape.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
15 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Biscuit)
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
FAQs about Apple Pie Biscuits
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the biscuit dough ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This gives the biscuits a richer flavor.
Can I freeze these biscuits?
Absolutely! Freeze unbaked biscuits on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container once they are frozen solid. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I substitute buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use regular milk. For the tangy flavor of buttermilk, you can add a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to the milk.
How should I store leftover biscuits?
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their flaky texture.
Can I add other fruits to the filling?
Yes, you can experiment with different fruits. Pears, peaches, or even mixed berries can be substituted or combined with apples for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Apple Pie Biscuits
Apple Pie Biscuits are a perfect blend of flavors and textures, offering all the satisfaction of apple pie in a quick, easy-to-make biscuit form. The sweet and spiced apple filling combined with a buttery biscuit creates a comforting treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, as a dessert, or as a snack, these biscuits will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection.
This recipe is highly adaptable, with options to customize the filling, add toppings, or make them mini-sized. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat your family to a warm, homemade treat, Apple Pie Biscuits are the way to go. Try them today and indulge in the comforting flavors of autumn, any time of the year.