Introduction
Caramel apple pie bombs are a delightful fusion of flavors that celebrate the classic taste of apple pie with a fun twist. Whether you're hosting a fall gathering or simply want to indulge in something sweet, these bite-sized treats are sure to please. Combining gooey caramel, cinnamon-spiced apples, and flaky pastry, these bombs are irresistible.
Making caramel apple pie bombs at home is simpler than you might think. With just a few ingredients and minimal fuss, you can create a dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Perfect for any occasion, these sweet bites will elevate your dessert game while allowing you to cherish the comforting flavors of apple pie.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of diced apples
Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor in your bombs. The apples provide the iconic taste of pie filling and soften nicely when baked, releasing their natural sweetness. - 1 cup of caramel sauce
Caramel sauce adds an indulgent sweetness and a rich, gooey texture that contrasts beautifully with the apples. It melts during baking, creating a luscious filling that is undeniably delicious. - 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Adding lemon juice helps prevent the apples from browning, maintaining their vibrant color. It also balances the sweetness of the dish and enhances the overall flavor profile. - 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
Cinnamon brings warmth and a classic pie flavor that complements the apples perfectly. It's a staple in many dessert recipes and adds depth to the overall taste. - 1 package of refrigerated biscuit dough (16 oz)
Biscuit dough acts as the flaky outer shell for the bombs, providing a convenient and time-saving alternative to making pastry from scratch. It bakes up light and fluffy, forming a delightful contrast to the gooey filling. - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
The beaten egg is used to brush on the dough before baking, giving it a beautiful golden-brown color and a shiny finish. This simple step elevates the appearance of your pie bombs. - Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Dusting with powdered sugar adds a sweet touch and makes for a beautiful presentation. It’s an easy way to finish off your dessert and make it look extra special.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Preheating the oven is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust and ensuring even baking. By starting with a hot oven, the biscuit dough will rise beautifully, creating a fluffy outer shell for your delicious filling.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine diced apples, lemon juice, caramel sauce, and cinnamon.
Mixing the apples with lemon juice prevents oxidation while also producing a light coating that enhances their natural flavor. The caramel and cinnamon add sweetness and spice, creating a well-rounded filling that’s truly irresistible.
Step 3: Open the package of biscuit dough and separate each biscuit.
Carefully separating the biscuits is important for a neat assembly of your bombs. Each biscuit will be filled with the delicious apple mixture, so handling them gently ensures they remain intact and filled properly.
Step 4: Place a tablespoon of the apple filling in the center of each biscuit.
Properly portioning the filling is key to ensuring every bomb is filled without overflowing. Too much filling can cause the bombs to burst during baking, while too little makes for a less satisfying bite.
Step 5: Fold the biscuit dough over the filling and pinch to seal tightly.
Sealing the biscuits well is essential for keeping the filling inside while baking. A tight seal prevents the caramel and juices from leaking out, ensuring each bite remains delightful and gooey.
Step 6: Arrange the bombs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Using parchment paper helps prevent sticking, allowing for easy cleanup. Spacing the bombs apart ensures they bake evenly and achieve that desired golden-brown exterior without overcrowding.
Step 7: Brush the tops with beaten egg for a glossy finish.
The egg wash is your secret to a beautiful, brown crust. Applying it generously gives the bombs a lovely sheen and enhances their visual appeal, making them even more tempting to enjoy.
Step 8: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Baking until golden brown indicates that the biscuit dough is fully cooked and crispy. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to avoid over-baking, which could lead to dryness.
Step 9: Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
Letting the bombs cool just a bit allows the filling to set, making them easier to handle. Dusting with powdered sugar right before serving enhances appearance and adds an extra touch of sweetness.
Step 10: Serve warm and enjoy your caramel apple pie bombs!
Serving these bombs warm allows the gooey caramel to be at its best. They are best enjoyed right after baking but can be savored at room temperature as well, providing the perfect finish to any meal.
Choosing the Right Apples
Selecting the right apples for your caramel apple pie bombs significantly impacts the final flavor and texture. Firm apples like Granny Smith add necessary tartness, balancing the sweetness of the caramel. Honeycrisp is another fantastic choice, known for its juiciness and crisp bite. Feel free to experiment with different varieties for personalized taste.
The Allure of Homemade Caramel
While store-bought caramel sauce is convenient, making your own can elevate these pie bombs to gourmet status. Homemade caramel allows you to control the richness and sweetness, creating a fresh and indulgent filling. It requires just sugar, butter, and cream, and the process is easier than many think—just be cautious with hot caramel!
Perfect Pairings for Serving
These caramel apple pie bombs can be served solo or paired with delightful accompaniments. A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delicious contrast, while whipped cream adds lightness. For a sophisticated touch, consider serving them with a caramel drizzle or a side of warm apple compote for an extra layer of flavor.
FAQs
What if my filling is too runny?
If your filling ends up too runny, consider cooking the apple mixture over medium heat for a few minutes to reduce excess moisture. This helps thicken the filling and prevents sogginess in the bombs.
Can I make these caramel apple pie bombs smaller?
Yes, you can reduce the size by using smaller pieces of biscuit dough or by making smaller portions of the filling. Just adjust the baking time to ensure they cook through properly without burning.
Why did my bombs burst open while baking?
Bursts can occur if the bombs are overfilled or if the seals aren't tight enough. Make sure to use the recommended portion of filling and pinch the dough securely to avoid any leaks during baking.
Can I add nuts to the apple filling for crunch?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor to your filling. Just be sure to adjust the filling proportion accordingly if you add nuts.
What if my biscuit dough is too thick?
If the biscuit dough seems unusually thick, it could be due to improper storage. Make sure that the dough is fresh and store it properly in the refrigerator. If necessary, roll it slightly thinner before wrapping it around the filling.
What can I do if the flavor is too sweet?
To balance out excess sweetness, consider adding a pinch of salt to the filling or serving with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt. These can cut through the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor.
Conclusion
Making caramel apple pie bombs is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall in a fun and delicious format. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these treats have the potential to become a family favorite for gatherings.
Whether indulging alone or sharing with friends, each bite offers a wonderful combination of textures and flavors. Don’t hesitate to let your creativity shine, customizing the filling or presentation to make these little bombs uniquely yours.
Recipe Card
Elevate Your Dinner with Burrata Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet.
- Cook until tomatoes soften and release juices, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper, and stir in torn basil leaves.
- Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the tomato sauce.
- Remove from heat and gently fold in the burrata, breaking it into pieces.
- Serve immediately, garnished with more fresh basil if desired.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
