Mini Gluten Free Baked Apple Pies

Step 1

In a large bowl or a food processor, sift the gfJules™ flour and salt. Cut in the butter and shortening using a pastry dough blender, two knives or a food processor. Do not over-work – the fat should resemble small pebbles at this point.

Step 3

Gradually add the vodka, then water, only one tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork or food processor until the dough holds together as a ball.

Step 5

Form dough into a disc shape and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Set aside on the counter while you prepare the apples.

Step 7

Wash and core apples (I find it is easiest to core an apple by starting turning it upside-down and pushing the corer through to the top). Pour enough apple cider to cover the bottom of an 8×8 microwave and oven-safe baking pan. Arrange cored apples in the baking pan.

Step 9

Toss raisins, chopped nuts and cinnamon in a small bowl. Fill each cored apple with this mixture, then pour at least 1 teaspoon maple syrup on top of the filling. Drizzle agave across each apple in a zig-zag pattern.

Step 11

Microwave the apples, uncovered, on high for approximately 4 minutes. The apples should be tender at this point, but not mushy.

Step 13

Preheat oven to 375° F.

Step 15

Roll the pie crust out onto a surface dusted with gfJules ™ Gluten Free All Purpose Flour.  Roll the disc out gently to a thickness of 1/8 inch (approximate the thickness of 4 business cards stacked on top of each other).

Step 17

Using a cookie cutter that is at least as wide as the top of each apple, cut out one shape for each apple. Lay one cut-out dough shape on top of each apple. Cut small slits in the center to allow steam to escape.

Step 19

Make a disc with any remaining dough and seal in a zip-top bag – freeze for the next time you need a small amount of pie crust dough. OR make some yummy gluten free pie crust cinnamon rolls!

Step 21

Brush the dough with your milk of choice or a beaten egg (this will help the dough to “brown” while baking). Sprinkle the tops with cinnamon-sugar and bake for 35 minutes, or until the dough is puffing slightly and browning a bit.

Step 23

Remove to cool and serve as individual pies. Serve with ice cream or whipped cream, or deliciously, on its own. For vegan or non-dairy options, I prefer So Delicious® almond or cashew milk ice cream or Cocowhip® whipped topping.

Step 25

Serves 4.