Mini Apple Tarts

Yesterday was a special day for Adam.  He was awarded the citizenship award at his assembly. I had a moment of extreme joy for him.  I knew the day before he was getting the award, but was told not to tell him, so it would be a surprise.  I decided we would have a special dinner and dessert to celebrate.

When Adam came home from school, he was able to pick his dinner, and he chose Chinese takeout.  Then for dessert I made mini apple tarts.  These delicious two bite tarts were the perfect ending to a great day. 

I love making food in miniature for parties, and for dessert it is a great way to have portion control. These little gems can be made a day ahead and are perfect served at room temperature.  I also find, that guests are impressed with little treats.  So here's an easy recipe for apple tarts to try the next time your having company, or just to celebrate something special.

recipe (yields 24 mini tarts)

1 box refrigerated pie crust (you can make your own pastry, but the box kind is easy)
4 cups diced, peeled apples (about 5 to 7 medium apples)
4 tablespoons butter
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon apple pie spice
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

preheat oven to 425 degrees. spray two 12 cup muffin tins with cooking spray and set aside.  then on a floured surface unroll refrigerated pie crust and roll slightly larger with a floured rolling pin.  using a 3 inch round cutter, cut out circles. (each pie crust should get 12 circles, re-roll scraps if necessary) place dough in the muffin cups, carefully pressing dough to the sides.

in a large skillet, combine apples, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and apple pie spice. cook over a medium heat for about 4 minutes, just enough to combine the sugar and butter with the apples and slightly soften the apples.

carefully spoon one tablespoon of apple filling into each muffin cup.  bake for 15 minutes or until crusts are golden brown.  serve immediately or at room temperature.  garnish with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.