Mason Jar Apple Pies are a delightful and unique dessert that brings the classic flavors of apple pie into a portable format. Perfect for picnics, parties, or cozy nights at home, these mini desserts combine the warmth of spiced apples with creamy layers and crunchy crusts. Their charming presentation makes them an ideal gift for friends and family.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Apple Filling
- For the Graham Cracker Crust
- For the Cream Cheese Layer
- For Topping
- How to Make Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies
- Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce
- Step 2: Cook the Apples
- Step 3: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
- Step 4: Prep the Cream Cheese Layer
- Step 5: Assemble in Jars
- Step 6: Finish Assembling Jars
- How to Serve Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies
- For a Cozy Gathering
- As Party Favors
- During Fall Festivities
- At Picnics or Potlucks
- How to Perfect Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies
- Best Side Dishes for Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies
- Reheating Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use different fruits in Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies?
- How do I prevent my crust from getting soggy?
- Can Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies be made ahead of time?
- What’s a good substitute for heavy cream?
- Do I need special mason jars for this recipe?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With no baking required, these Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies can be whipped up quickly.
- Portable Delight: Perfect for on-the-go desserts, they are easy to transport and serve.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or add your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.
- Visually Appealing: The layered look in mason jars makes these pies not just tasty but also beautiful.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these pies fit right in.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mason jars
- Small saucepan
- Food processor
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mason jars: These provide the charming presentation while keeping your dessert fresh.
- Food processor: It simplifies crushing graham crackers into fine crumbs for the crust.
- Hand mixer: This tool helps achieve the perfect whipped cream consistency effortlessly.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
- 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 ½ cups diced apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
- 1 Tablespoon water
- 1-2 Tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Graham Cracker Crust
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
For the Cream Cheese Layer
- 6 oz. cream cheese light
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 Tablespoons powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- pinch of salt
For Topping
- 1/4 cup caramel topping (or more)
How to Make Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies
Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce
You can either use store-bought caramel sauce or make our Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce. For best results, prepare your homemade version ahead of time to use in this recipe (and others).
Step 2: Cook the Apples
Add the diced apples, unsalted butter, water, brown sugar, and cinnamon to a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until softened, about 5-6 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and allow to cool.
Step 3: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
Use a food processor to crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs. Pour these crumbs into a bowl and mix with sugar and melted butter. Stir until combined. Spoon this mixture evenly into four mason jars, pressing down tightly with a round object (like an ice cream scoop).
Step 4: Prep the Cream Cheese Layer
In one mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream using a hand mixer until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, blend softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream until well combined.
Step 5: Assemble in Jars
Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jar on top of the graham cracker crust. Smooth it evenly against all sides of the jars for an appealing look.
Step 6: Finish Assembling Jars
Once your apples have cooled to room temperature, add them on top of the cream cheese layer in each jar. Finally, drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
Enjoy your delightful Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies!
How to Serve Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies
Serving Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies can be a delightful experience, adding to the charm of this portable dessert. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy these individual treats.
For a Cozy Gathering
- Warm up the jars – Heat the jars slightly before serving for a comforting touch.
- Top with whipped cream – Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for an extra creamy layer.
As Party Favors
- Personalized labels – Attach custom tags to each jar with the guest’s name for a unique touch.
- Decorative twine – Wrap twine around each jar for rustic charm, making them great gifts.
During Fall Festivities
- Cinnamon sticks as garnish – Place a cinnamon stick in each jar for an aromatic experience.
- Pair with cider – Serve alongside warm apple cider to enhance the fall flavors.
At Picnics or Potlucks
- Chill before serving – Refrigerate the jars before taking them out for a refreshing treat.
- Mini spoons included – Provide small spoons for easy enjoyment on-the-go.

How to Perfect Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies
Creating the perfect Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies involves attention to detail and some handy tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dessert game.
- Use fresh apples – Freshly diced apples will provide the best flavor and texture in your pies.
- Chill your cream cheese – Ensure your cream cheese is softened but not too warm; this helps achieve a smooth filling.
- Adjust sweetness to taste – Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your preference and apple variety.
- Layer carefully – Take your time when layering each component in the jars for an appealing presentation.
- Experiment with spices – Try adding nutmeg or ginger to enhance the spiced flavor profile.
- Refrigerate before serving – Allowing the pies to chill can improve their taste and consistency.
Best Side Dishes for Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies
Pairing side dishes with Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options that complement these tasty treats.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that adds creamy richness to your pie.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle – Offer extra caramel sauce on the side for those who want more sweetness.
- Spiced Nuts – Roasted spiced nuts provide a crunchy contrast and nutty flavor balance.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses can create an interesting sweet-and-savory combination with your pies.
- Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad offers freshness and balances the richness of the pie.
- Hot Chocolate – Warm hot chocolate enhances the cozy feel, especially during colder months.
- Coffee or Tea – Serve with a cup of coffee or herbal tea for a delightful end to any meal.
- Ginger Cookies – Crunchy ginger cookies add spice and texture, making them an excellent side choice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
-
Ignoring the apple variety: Using the wrong type of apples can lead to mushy or overly sweet pies. Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.
-
Overcooking the apples: Cooking the apples too long can make them lose their texture. Aim for just 5-6 minutes until they’re softened but still slightly firm.
-
Not letting ingredients cool: Adding hot ingredients directly into jars can cause melting and mess. Allow the cooked apples and cheese mixture to cool to room temperature before assembly.
-
Skipping the crust prep: A poorly prepared graham cracker crust can crumble when you try to serve it. Make sure to press the crumbs firmly into the jars for stability.
-
Using too much caramel: While caramel is delicious, too much can overpower the other flavors. Drizzle lightly and taste before adding more.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies in airtight containers.
- They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you have multiple jars, stack them carefully to avoid spills.
Freezing Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies
- For longer storage, freeze unassembled jars without the cream cheese layer.
- They last up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before assembling.
Reheating Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies
-
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the jars on a baking tray and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
-
Microwave: Remove the lid and microwave each jar on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
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Stovetop: Place a small amount of water in a saucepan and set the jars inside on low heat. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes until they’re warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies:
Can I use different fruits in Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies?
You can definitely experiment with other fruits! Pears, peaches, or even berries work well in this dessert.
How do I prevent my crust from getting soggy?
To maintain a crunchy crust, ensure your apples are not overly juicy. You can also bake the crust briefly before filling it.
Can Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies be made ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What’s a good substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can replace heavy cream with whipped coconut cream or Greek yogurt for a similar texture.
Do I need special mason jars for this recipe?
Standard mason jars work perfectly fine! Ensure they are clean and suitable for food storage.
Final Thoughts
Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies offer an enjoyable twist on traditional apple pie, perfect for gatherings or as gifts. Their portable nature makes them ideal for sharing at picnics or parties. Feel free to customize your filling by adding nuts or choosing different toppings like whipped cream or chocolate shavings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy creating delightful individual desserts!
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📖 Recipe Card
PrintMini Mason Jar Apple Pies
Mini Mason Jar Apple Pies are the perfect blend of nostalgia and convenience, bringing the cozy flavors of traditional apple pie into delightful, portable servings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No baking required
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups diced apples
- 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 Tablespoon water
- 1–2 Tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 6 oz. cream cheese light
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 Tablespoons powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup caramel topping (or more)
Instructions
- Prepare caramel sauce if using homemade.
- Cook diced apples with butter, water, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a saucepan until soft (5-6 minutes). Cool.
- Make graham cracker crust by mixing crumbs with sugar and melted butter; press into mason jars.
- Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form; blend softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla in another bowl. Fold whipped cream into the mixture.
- Layer cream cheese mix over crust in jars, then add cooled apple mixture on top. Drizzle with caramel before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar (170g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg