Apple Pie Biscuits Recipe

I find myself reaching for this recipe on days when I want maximum comfort food with minimum fuss. The smell of these warm apple pie biscuits filling the kitchen instantly puts me in a good mood. They have that soft, flaky texture of a classic buttermilk biscuit, but with a sweet cinnamon swirl and tender apple pieces baked right inside. This apple pie biscuits recipe is a family-friendly breakfast that captures all the flavor of apple pie without taking hours in the kitchen. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a truly special treat, proving that you don’t need to spend all day baking to create something delicious for your family.

Ingredients for Apple Pie Biscuits

Here’s what you need to make this simple apple pie biscuits recipe, broken down by component:

• All-Purpose Flour (360g or 3 cups): Use standard all-purpose flour for the base structure of the biscuits. Be sure to measure accurately by scooping and leveling the flour, or use a kitchen scale for best results.
• Granulated Sugar (50g or 1/4 cup): Provides sweetness and aids in browning the biscuits. Combined with baking powder and salt in the dry mixture.
• Baking Powder (1 tbsp): The primary leavening agent for the biscuits. Ensure your baking powder is fresh for maximum rise; test by adding a pinch to hot water—it should bubble immediately.
• Fine Sea Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the apple and glaze. Use fine sea salt or kosher salt.
• Cold Unsalted Butter (170g or 3/4 cup): Crucial for achieving a flaky, tender biscuit texture. Cut the butter into cold 1.2 cm (1/2 inch) cubes and keep refrigerated until just before use to prevent it from melting prematurely.
• Cold Buttermilk (180ml or 3/4 cup): Adds tang and richness to the biscuits while providing the necessary acidity to activate the baking powder. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
• Large Apple (1, about 150g): Use a firm, crisp variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, which hold their shape when baked. Peel, core, and finely dice the apple into small pieces (less than 1/2 inch) to ensure even cooking within the biscuit.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) and Ground Nutmeg (1/4 tsp): These spices provide the classic apple pie flavor profile for these apple pie biscuits. Use fresh, aromatic spices for the best result.
• Alcohol-Free Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Adds depth to the apple filling without adding alcohol. A good quality vanilla extract or paste enhances the overall flavor.
• Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl Ingredients (Brown Sugar, Cinnamon, Melted Butter): The mixture for creating the signature swirl layer in the biscuits. Use light brown sugar for its molasses notes and soft texture.
• Vanilla Bean Glaze Ingredients (Powdered Sugar, Milk, Vanilla Bean Paste): The finishing touch for sweetness and presentation. Vanilla bean paste adds visible speckles and a richer flavor than extract; whole milk provides a thick, creamy base for the glaze.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) to ensure a high, quick rise for the biscuits. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Make the Biscuit Base: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and cut them into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the butter pieces are roughly the size of small peas. Do not overmix or let the butter melt fully. If your butter starts to melt while working, put the bowl in the fridge for 10 minutes to chill before proceeding.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, combine the cold buttermilk, finely diced apple, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together with a fork or spatula until just combined. The dough should be shaggy and slightly sticky—avoid overworking the dough, which results in tough biscuits.
4. Roll and Add the Swirl: Turn the shaggy dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a rough rectangle about 2.5 cm (1 inch) thick. Combine the brown sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Brush the melted butter evenly over the dough rectangle, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the butter, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Shape the Biscuits: Starting from a long edge of the rectangle, tightly roll the dough into a log. Gently pinch the seam to seal it closed. Cut the log into 8-10 equal rounds, about 3-4 cm (1.2-1.6 inches) thick, using a sharp knife for clean cuts. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each biscuit for even baking.
6. Bake and Cool: Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the apple pie biscuits are fully cooked through in the center. Transfer the biscuits to a wire rack to cool slightly while you prepare the glaze.
7. Make the Vanilla Glaze: While the biscuits are cooling, prepare the glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla bean paste until completely smooth and pourable. Add more milk, 1/2 teaspoon at a time, if a thinner consistency is desired; ensure the powdered sugar is sifted beforehand to prevent lumps.
8. Glaze and Serve: Arrange the warm apple pie biscuits on a serving platter or individual plates. Drizzle the vanilla bean glaze generously over the biscuits; serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Simple Ways to Store and Reheat Apple Pie Biscuits

This easy apple pie biscuits recipe is perfect for making ahead, ensuring you always have a warm, hearty snack ready to go. The key to maintaining freshness is proper storage and reheating techniques, especially if you’re planning for quick meals during the week.

• Storing Biscuits: Once the biscuits have completely cooled to room temperature, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days on the counter. For slightly longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; however, note that biscuits dry out more quickly in the fridge.
• Freezing Baked Biscuits: To freeze a batch for later, let the biscuits cool fully before placing them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. They freeze well for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm them directly from frozen in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 10-15 minutes, then apply the glaze.
• Freezing Raw Dough: If you prefer to make them ahead for a fresh bake later, shape the biscuits and freeze them solid on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container. Bake from frozen, adding about 5-10 minutes to the total baking time.
• Quick Reheating: To restore freshness and a soft texture, place individual biscuits in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or wrap them in foil and heat them in a preheated 180°C (350°F) oven for 5-7 minutes.

Serving Suggestions and Flavor Variations

While delicious on their own, these apple pie biscuits offer versatility in serving. They can transform from a simple breakfast treat to a comforting dessert with just a few small additions, making this apple pie biscuits recipe a truly family-friendly option for any time of day.

• Breakfast Treat: Serve them warm for a special weekend brunch alongside coffee or tea. A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a little extra butter works well in place of the glaze for a less sweet start to the day.
• Dessert Course: For a comforting dessert, serve warm biscuits with a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. My kids always ask for this specific setup when I make them; it’s a quick shortcut to “pie a la mode” that takes less than five minutes to prepare.
• Flavor Twists: Try swapping a portion of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat pastry flour for a nuttier flavor and slightly more high-fiber option. You can also add a pinch of cardamom to the spice mixture for additional warmth.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-made biscuit dough instead of making it from scratch?

A: While a store-bought biscuit dough won’t replicate the exact flaky texture and rich flavor of this homemade apple pie biscuits recipe, you can absolutely use it as a shortcut. Roll out the pre-made dough, spread with the cinnamon-sugar swirl mixture, and follow the remaining instructions for baking. This is a great way to save time on busy mornings for quick meals.

Q: Why did my biscuits come out tough or flat?

A: This common issue is usually caused by overworking the dough, which develops gluten and results in a tough biscuit texture. Ensure your butter is very cold and your baking powder is fresh for maximum rise. Also, avoid twisting the knife when cutting the dough log; use a sharp, straight downward motion to preserve the layers.

Q: Can I use a different fruit instead of apples?

A: Yes, for a seasonal twist, you can try finely diced pears, peaches, or even raspberries. Adjust the baking time slightly as needed depending on the water content of the fruit. This makes the apple pie biscuits recipe adaptable for whatever you have on hand.

Q: How do I get the biscuits to look tall and flaky?

A: Keep all ingredients, especially the butter and buttermilk, very cold before combining them. Avoid twisting the knife when cutting the dough log; use a sharp, straight downward motion to preserve the layers. I’ve found that chilling the cut biscuits on the baking sheet for 10-15 minutes before baking helps set the layers and ensures a taller rise for this apple pie biscuits recipe.

Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?

A: Create a substitute by mixing 1 cup of whole milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly before adding it to the recipe. This substitution will provide the acidity needed to activate the baking powder and create a tender crumb in your biscuits.

Conclusion

This easy apple pie biscuits recipe truly delivers on cozy comfort food, offering all the joy of a homemade pie without the hours of work. They make a perfect weekend breakfast or a special afternoon snack that brings the family together for healthy eating. Try making a batch this weekend and save this quick and easy recipe to Pinterest to make again soon.

apple pie biscuits recipe

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• Author: Liana Brooks
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 10 biscuits 1x
• Diet: general

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Description

These soft, flaky apple pie biscuits capture the comforting flavor of apple pie in a quick, easy breakfast or dessert. They feature a sweet cinnamon swirl and tender apple pieces baked inside, finished with a vanilla bean glaze.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 3/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 3/4 cup cold buttermilk
• 1 large apple (about 150g), peeled, cored, and finely diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar (for swirl)
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for swirl)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for swirl)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2 tablespoons whole milk (for glaze)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (for glaze)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prep Pan: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Biscuit Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and cut them into the flour mixture until the butter pieces are roughly the size of small peas.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients and Fold: In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, diced apple, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined into a shaggy dough, avoiding overmixing.
4. Add Cinnamon Swirl: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and pat into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture (brown sugar and cinnamon), leaving a small border.
5. Shape Biscuits: Tightly roll the dough into a log starting from a long edge. Pinch the seam to seal. Cut the log into 8-10 rounds and place them on the baking sheet.
6. Bake and Cool Biscuits: Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly.
7. Prepare Vanilla Glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla bean paste until smooth.
8. Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm biscuits and serve immediately.

Notes

Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and buttermilk, are very cold for a flaky texture. Avoid overworking the dough, which can result in tough biscuits. When cutting the dough log, use a sharp, straight downward motion instead of twisting to maintain the layers.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: breakfast
• Method: baking
• Cuisine: american

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 biscuit
• Calories: 410 calories
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 310mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: apple, biscuits, cinnamon, breakfast, dessert, pastry, comfort food, easy, quick, sweet, baked goods