Name: Cinnamon Churro Apple Pie Cups: Your New Fall Dessert Favorite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 12 pieces Mini Pie Shells (store-bought); 1/4 cup Melted Butter (unsalted); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (fresh preferred); 1 can Apple Pie Filling (chopped small) (or fresh apples/spiced pears); 1 cup Whipped Cream (homemade or store-bought)

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The aroma of warm cinnamon and buttery sugar wafted through my kitchen, transporting me straight back to my childhood fairgrounds, where churros were the ultimate indulgence. Enter the delightfully portable Cinnamon Churro Apple Pie Cups—a sweet treat that marries the best of both worlds! With a crispy, flaky mini pie shell and a cozy spiced apple filling, these treats are not only a nod to classic desserts but also a quick and easy way to satisfy your cravings. Perfect for gathering with friends or a quiet night in, they come together with effortless grace, using store-bought ingredients to save you time without sacrificing flavor. So, are you ready to take a bite out of nostalgia and create your new favorite fall dessert?

Why Are These Pie Cups Irresistible?

Quick and Easy: These Cinnamon Churro Apple Pie Cups come together in a flash, making them a perfect solution for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Portable Delight: Ideal for sharing, they are easy to transport to potlucks or parties without worry. Fall Flavors: Bursting with the essence of autumn, the spiced apple filling combined with cinnamon-sugar coated shells captures the season beautifully. Versatile Substitutions: Whether you choose to fill them with your favorite pie filling or explore variations like spiced peaches, the possibilities are endless. For more scrumptious fall treats, check out my Cinnamon Apple Bread or enjoy some delicious Churro Bites. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Everyone loves churros and pie, making this a sure hit at any gathering!

Cinnamon Churro Apple Pie Cups Ingredients

Just the essentials for your next baking adventure!

For the Pie Cups
• Mini Pie Shells – These provide the base for your dessert; feel free to opt for store-bought to save time!
• Melted Butter (unsalted) – This adds richness to the shells and helps the cinnamon sugar adhere perfectly.
• Granulated Sugar – The sweetener that creates that delightful churro coating; no need for substitutions here!
• Ground Cinnamon – Essential for that warm, comforting flavor reminiscent of churros; fresh cinnamon can elevate its taste.

For the Filling
• Apple Pie Filling (chopped small) – Forms the cozy filling that warms your soul; can substitute with fresh apples or spiced pears for a twist.

For the Topping
• Whipped Cream – Adds a creamy, luxurious touch on top; use homemade or store-bought for convenience.

These Cinnamon Churro Apple Pie Cups will fill your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas and bring joy to your next dessert spread! Happy baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Churro Apple Pie Cups

Step 1: Bake Shells
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the mini pie shells on a baking sheet. Bake them for about 10-12 minutes or until they turn a golden brown and crisp up beautifully. Keep an eye on them as they bake, ensuring they don’t get too dark; the perfect shell will look invitingly crunchy and ready for filling.

Step 2: Butter & Sugar Coat
Once the mini pie shells are out of the oven, immediately brush each warm shell with melted unsalted butter. Then, roll the edges of the shells in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, which creates a delicious churro-like coating. Make sure the butter is still warm for the sugar to adhere perfectly, resulting in a sweet, crispy exterior.

Step 3: Warm Filling
While the shells cool slightly, take your apple pie filling and heat it on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir the filling until it’s warm but not boiling, about 3-5 minutes. This step enhances the flavors and ensures a comforting warmth in the Cinnamon Churro Apple Pie Cups. Keep stirring to prevent any sticking.

Step 4: Fill
Once warmed, spoon the apple pie filling generously into each mini pie shell. Aim for a heaping amount in each cup, allowing the delicious filling to peek over the edges. This will create a mouthwatering visual, and the soft, spiced apples will beautifully contrast the crunchy, cinnamon-sugar coating.

Step 5: Top
To finish your Cinnamon Churro Apple Pie Cups, add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each filled shell just before serving. This adds a luxurious creamy element that balances the warmth of the apple filling. Use a piping bag or spoon for a decorative touch, ensuring each cup is appealing and ready to be enjoyed.

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Churro Apple Pie Cups

Room Temperature: Enjoy your pie cups immediately after making for the best texture; they are best kept at room temperature for up to 1 day.

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. While they may lose some crispness, the flavors will still be delightful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled but unbaked pie cups in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months; bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: For a quick refresh, reheat filled cups in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Churro Apple Pie Cups

Perfectly Baked Shells: Ensure your pie shells are baked until they’re golden brown; a soggy shell means they were undercooked, which can ruin the texture.
Warm Butter Application: Brush the shells with melted butter immediately after baking while they are still warm; this step is crucial for the cinnamon sugar to stick effectively.
Fill Just Before Serving: For optimum freshness and to avoid sogginess, fill the cups with apple filling and top with whipped cream right before it’s time to serve your Cinnamon Churro Apple Pie Cups.
Cinnamon Quality: Use fresh ground cinnamon if possible; its aromatic qualities can elevate the churro and apple flavors to a whole new level.
Explore Filling Variations: Feel free to experiment with different fillings, like fresh spiced pears or cherry pie filling, to keep your dessert exciting and unique.

Cinnamon Churro Apple Pie Cups Variations

Feel free to get creative in the kitchen and customize these delightful treats to suit your taste!

Cherry Filling: Swap the apple filling for cherry pie filling for a burst of summertime flavor. The sweet and tart combination is simply irresistible.
Spiced Pears: Try fresh, spiced pears instead of apples for a cozy twist that is equally comforting yet unique.
Graham Cracker Crusts: Substitute the mini pie shells with crumbly graham cracker crusts for a delightful texture that adds a crunchy element.
Phyllo Dough: For a lighter version, use phyllo dough to create thinner, flakier cups that still pack all the flavor of churros and apples.
Vegan Option: Replace the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free whipped cream for a delicious vegan treat that everyone can enjoy.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed nuts, like pecans or almonds, on top of the whipped cream for added texture and a lovely nutty flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a decadent touch that elevates these pie cups into something truly special.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a surprising kick that beautifully complements the sweetness.

For more scrumptious fall flavors, don’t forget to check out my Key Lime Pie Bars or indulge in delightful Churro Bites for a sweet experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Churro Apple Pie Cups are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can bake the mini pie shells up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness. Additionally, the apple pie filling can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days—just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm the filling on the stovetop while the shells stay nice and crunchy at room temperature. Finally, add your whipped cream just before serving to keep its delightful texture. Enjoy these sweet treats with minimal effort and maximum flavor!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Churro Apple Pie Cups

Indulging in these delightful pie cups is just the beginning; enhancing the experience with perfect pairings will make your gathering unforgettable.

Warm Spiced Cider: The flavors of cinnamon and apple in spiced cider beautifully complement the sweet and spiced filling of the pie cups. Sip slowly and savor the warmth!
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the crispy shells, melting perfectly into the warm apple filling. The extra richness elevates every bite.
Fresh Whipped Cream: Enhance the whipped cream topping with a vanilla bean infusion for a gourmet touch. This will elevate the simple pleasure of the original topping to a whole new level.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a bit of warm chocolate sauce brings a rich and decadent twist to these cinnamon churro apple pie cups, creating a luscious flavor combination that’s hard to resist.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This classic fall drink not only warms the heart but also mirrors the spiced notes in the pie cups, making for a cozy pairing perfect for chilly evenings.
Candied Pecans: Add some crunch with candied pecans on the side. Their sweetness and nutty flavor beautifully contrast the soft, spiced apples and crispy shell, giving a satisfying texture variation.

Cinnamon Churro Apple Pie Cups Recipe FAQs

What type of apples are best for apple pie filling?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. These varieties hold their shape well and offer a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness. If you’re looking for a unique twist, spiced pears can also make a fantastic filling!

How should I store leftover Cinnamon Churro Apple Pie Cups?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. While they may lose a bit of their crispness, they’ll still be delightfully tasty! For the best texture, enjoy them fresh right after they’re made.

Can I freeze these Cinnamon Churro Apple Pie Cups?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the pie cups but do not bake them. Place the unbaked cups in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Just bake from frozen, adding about 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time at 375°F (190°C). This way, you can enjoy fresh pie cups anytime!

Why are my mini pie shells soggy?
Soggy shells are often a result of under-baking or not applying the butter correctly. Make sure your shells are baked until a deep, golden brown. Also, brush the melted butter on while they’re still warm; this allows the cinnamon sugar to adhere properly and prevents them from becoming soggy once filled.

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Very! This recipe contains gluten from the mini pie shells, dairy from the butter and whipped cream, and sugar. If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, you can use gluten-free mini pie shells and dairy-free alternatives for the butter and cream. Always check ingredient labels to ensure the options fit your dietary needs!

Can I use store-bought ingredients and still have a delicious dessert?
Definitely! The beauty of these Cinnamon Churro Apple Pie Cups is in their simplicity. Using store-bought mini pie shells and even pre-made apple pie filling can save you time without sacrificing flavor. Just remember to check the expiration dates to ensure the best quality!