I'm not sure that ANYTHING screams summertime dessert more than apple pie. But even more, apple pie with ice cream? Not much better than that. And while I love a good pie, they can really be a major undertaking - from the crust to the filling to crossing your fingers that they set up like they're supposed to - that's a lot of dessert-stress that sometimes I just don't want to deal with.
I hosted my extended family gathering for the 4th of July this year, so in my search for a dessert that would make my hostess-duties easier, I turned to my favorite secret weapon - Athens Mini Fillo Shells. You guys, I LOVE THEM! The texture is delicate, crisp and flaky, sturdy enough to hold up to fillings and toppings, and works with both savory and sweet recipes.
Love.
This simple recipe combines chopped apple pie filling, cinnamon and a walnut crumb topping to transform these Athens Mini Fillo Shells into one of the most brilliant American desserts, the apple pie. But, this isn't your typical apple pie - there is no knife and fork required - and if you're like me, you just might find yourself doing a bit of mental math, like "How many of these can I eat and still have enough for my guests when they arrive?"
Here's where things get ridiculous, though.
Not ridiculous in a bad way. Ridiculous in a holy-apple-pie-get-in-my-mouth kind of way. This is where the ice cream comes in.
Those mini ice cream scoops are the perfect size for the ice-cream on top, and a drizzle of caramel sauce finishes it off. Extra points for serving it warm, because then the ice cream gets a bit melty and oozy and...well, that's when you start making up words like "melty" and "oozy."
In a good way.
You can literally put this dessert together in about 15 minutes, pre-bake it and have it ready to go when your guests arrive. If you store the baked mini-pies in an airtight container, they'll keep for 24 hour hours and remain crisp. You can warm them in the oven for five minutes before serving if you like them warm.
Be sure to check out Athens Foods or Phyllo.com for more recipe ideas. You can find these mini shells in the freezer section at your grocery store - I'd recommend buying extra and keeping them in your freezer for an unexpected party. They really are lifesavers!
Have you tried Fillo Shells before? What is your favorite way to serve them? Let me know, I'm always looking for new ideas!
