Little Baby Freezer Pies

I have been wanting to make these little freezer jar pies since last year! I thought they were too adorable when I first saw the idea. Little pies frozen and ready to pop into the oven whenever the hankerin' hits! Maybe for last minute guests or as a Christmas hostess gifts? 'Cause really. Who doesn't like pie?

I decided to use apples and cranberries, but I'm sure you can use any fruit in season. Just chop up and toss with some sugar, flour and spices. Done in a snap. In regards to the crust, however, I tried pressing the pie dough all around the insides of the jars so it would have a crust like a real pie. It worked, and I'm sure it will taste yummy, but after the second jar, I decided it took too much time. So, in went the fruit and on went the top crust, cobbler style. Ahhh. Much easier.

Here you'll find the basic recipe. Naturally, you can adjust. Add more dry ingredients if you have more fruit. Using really juicy, sweet fruit? Use less sugar and more flour to thicken. You get the idea.

• Little Freezer Jar Pies •

4 c. fruit (I used chopped apples and cranberries)
.5 c. sugar
1.5 t. pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon & nutmeg)
2 T flour

Mix together, spoon into small canning jars, dot with a smidge of butter and place crumb topping or pie crust on top. (I just rolled out dough and used the screw top jar lids to cut circles out.) If you use pie crust, be sure to use a knife and cut little slits to let the steam escape. Screw lids on tight and pop in the freezer.

When ready to bake, remove lids, place on cookie sheet (to catch the drips) and bake at 375 degrees for about 50-60 minutes (or 45 minutes if not frozen).



And if you have any extra ingredients? Place in ramekins and bake up for dessert tonight! No delayed gratification required.