The sweet aroma of autumn fills the air as I pull these delightful little treats from the oven—Caramel Apple Pie Bombs that are sure to lift your spirits. With just 20 minutes of prep time, they offer all the comforting flavors of a classic apple pie, but in a fun, bite-sized form. The best part? Each flaky little bomb is packed with juicy apples, a gooey caramel center, and a hint of cinnamon, making them a quick and easy dessert that will impress family and friends alike. These tasty morsels are perfect for busy days when you crave something homemade without the hassle of traditional baking. Are you ready to indulge in these delicious little wonders? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are these pie bombs a must-try?
Quick & Easy: In just 20 minutes, you’ll have warm, golden treats that rival any bakery’s offerings.
Decadent Flavor: Imagine the mouthwatering combination of sweet apples, rich caramel, and warm cinnamon; each bite is like a hug!
Versatile Options: Feel free to switch apples for pears or add chocolate chips for a twist.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, these dessert bombs will impress everyone!
Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or check out our delicious Caramel Brownie Cheesecake for another sweet treat that’s sure to please!
Caramel Apple Pie Bombs Ingredients
For the Filling
• Apples – Adds sweetness and tartness; use Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn for the best results.
• Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and depth; substitute with coconut sugar for a different flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon – Enhances aroma and flavor; optional, but strongly recommended for warmth.
• Salt – Balances the flavors; a pinch enhances sweetness.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the filling; can be replaced with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
For the Dough
• Refrigerated Biscuit Dough – Offers a flaky, convenient base; homemade dough can be used for freshness.
For the Center
• Caramel Candy – Melts into a gooey center; swap with chocolate for a different flavor profile.
For the Topping
• Melted Butter – Brushed on top for a golden color; can be omitted for a lighter option.
• Cinnamon Sugar (optional) – Topping for extra sweetness and texture; make your own by mixing cinnamon with sugar to taste.
These Caramel Apple Pie Bombs are simple to prepare and promise a delightful explosion of flavor in every bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Caramel Apple Pie Bombs
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add 2 cups of chopped apples, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture is bubbling. Remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly while you prepare the biscuit dough.
Step 2: Prepare Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Open a can of refrigerated biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. On a lightly floured surface, take each biscuit and flatten it into a thin and round shape, roughly 4 inches in diameter. This will create a perfect base for your Caramel Apple Pie Bombs, allowing space for the delicious filling.
Step 3: Assemble Bombs
Place 1 tablespoon of the apple filling in the center of each biscuit, followed by one piece of caramel candy. Gently fold the edges of the biscuit over the filling, pinching them tightly to seal without any gaps. Roll each filled biscuit into a smooth ball. This ensures that the gooey caramel and sweet apple filling stay nestled inside during baking.
Step 4: Bake
Arrange the sealed bombs seam-side down in a greased baking dish, ensuring they are spaced apart. Brush the tops lightly with melted butter for a lovely golden finish and, if you like, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the aroma fills your kitchen, signaling they’re ready to be enjoyed.
Step 5: Serve
Once baked, remove your Caramel Apple Pie Bombs from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, allowing the gooey caramel and tender apple filling to shine. For a delightful touch, you can pair them with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making each bite a comforting treat.
Caramel Apple Pie Bombs Variations
Feel free to make these delightful treats your own with these tasty twists and substitutions!
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Fruit Swap: Replace apples with pears for a sweeter flavor or try a mix of apple and pumpkin filling for a unique fall treat. Each variation highlights a different taste while retaining that comforting pie essence.
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Chocolatey Delight: Swap caramel candy for chocolate chips to add a rich, decadent twist. Imagine biting into warm, melty chocolate mixed with the sweetness of apples; it’s a dessert lover’s dream!
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Nutty Crunch: Stir in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and a delightful crunch. Nuts not only enhance the flavor but also create a satisfying bite amidst the soft, gooey filling.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor. This swap brings a hint of tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with the apples.
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Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the filling for a more complex flavor profile. These warm spices bring a cozy feel, perfect for cool evenings.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free refrigerator biscuits for those avoiding gluten. You can still enjoy these bombastic treats without losing the taste you love!
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Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Transform the outside by tossing the bombs in cinnamon sugar right after baking. This enhances sweetness and gives a delightful finish, reminiscent of classic doughnuts.
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Serving Suggestions: Pair these pie bombs with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce just like we do with a comforting slice of Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce. They truly elevate each bite!
Feel free to experiment and create your ideal Caramel Apple Pie Bombs; after all, the best recipes are those that are a reflection of your taste!
What to Serve with Caramel Apple Pie Bombs
Indulging in these sweet treats creates a perfect opportunity to elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the warm, gooey flavors of the bombs.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it enhances the bombs while adding an elegant touch to your serving plate.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of rich caramel sauce complements the flavors and adds a decadent touch.
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Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the caramel and cinnamon notes, making for a cozy dessert moment.
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Chai Tea: The spices in chai create a delightful pairing, enhancing the comforting flavors of your bomb.
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Pecans: Chopped, toasted pecans bring a crunchy texture that contrasts perfectly with the soft bombs.
For those seeking balance, consider serving these with a fresh fruit salad on the side. The brightness of the fruits cuts through the richness of the pies while offering a refreshing finish. Each combination elevates your dessert experience, ensuring each bite is a celebration at the table!
How to Store and Freeze Caramel Apple Pie Bombs
Room Temperature: Store leftover pie bombs in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Enjoy them at room temperature for a quick snack!
Fridge: If you prefer, keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 15 seconds to warm them up.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked bombs in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: To reheat baked bombs, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Helpful Tricks for Caramel Apple Pie Bombs
- Dry Apples First: Pat down chopped apples thoroughly with a paper towel to prevent soggy bombs. This keeps the biscuit dough flaky and delicious.
- Right Amount of Filling: Use only 1 tablespoon of apple filling plus one caramel candy per biscuit to avoid overflowing. Too much filling can lead to messy bombs!
- Seal It Tightly: Make sure to pinch the edges securely to keep the caramel and apples inside during baking. An imperfect seal may result in leaking.
- Seam-Side Down: Place the bombs seam-side down in the baking dish for the best results; this helps to keep them sealed while they bake.
- Watch the Timer: Ovens can vary; start checking the bombs for golden brown color at around 28 minutes to ensure they don’t overbake.
- Serving Tip: These Caramel Apple Pie Bombs are best served warm, so enjoy them straight out of the oven for that gooey, comforting experience!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Caramel Apple Pie Bombs are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the filling (apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter) up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the filling as instructed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the bombs completely and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to cover them with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, pop the assembled bombs in the oven straight from the fridge and bake until golden, resulting in just as delicious treats with minimal effort!
Caramel Apple Pie Bombs Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the filling?
For the best flavor balance, I recommend using Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn apples. These varieties provide the right combination of sweetness and tartness. Avoid softer varieties like Red Delicious, as they may not hold their shape well during cooking.
How should I store leftover caramel apple pie bombs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 3 days, but do keep in mind to reheat them in the microwave for about 15 seconds when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I freeze caramel apple pie bombs?
Absolutely! To freeze, arrange the unbaked bombs in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since they will go into the oven straight from the freezer.
What if my pie bombs leak during baking?
If your pie bombs leak, don’t worry! This can happen if the edges weren’t sealed tightly or if there was too much filling. Make sure to pinch the edges snugly when sealing and use only 1 tablespoon of apple filling and one caramel candy per biscuit to avoid overfilling.
Are caramel apple pie bombs safe for pets?
While all the ingredients used are generally safe for humans, it’s important to avoid sharing these with pets, particularly the caramel and butter. If you’re looking to make a pet-friendly treat, consider simply cooking a few apples without added sugar or spices instead.
Can I make these pie bombs dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a dairy-free option! Substitute the unsalted butter in the filling with olive oil and skip the melted butter on top or use a dairy-free butter alternative. This way, you can still enjoy those gooey, delicious pie bombs while accommodating dietary needs.
Remember, don’t hesitate to experiment and have fun with the recipe! The more the merrier when it comes to homemade treats.
Irresistible Caramel Apple Pie Bombs in Just 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add 2 cups of chopped apples, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 5 minutes until apples are tender.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Open a can of refrigerated biscuit dough, separate the biscuits, and flatten each into a round shape about 4 inches in diameter.
- Place 1 tablespoon of the apple filling in the center of each biscuit, followed by one piece of caramel candy. Fold the edges over, pinching tightly to seal.
- Arrange the bombs seam-side down in a greased baking dish, brush with melted butter, and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar if desired. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, optionally with caramel sauce or vanilla ice cream.
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