Healthy Apple Pie Pockets For Baby and Kids
Table of Contents
How Do I Prepare Apples For My Baby?
To prepare apples for your baby, start by choosing ripe, fresh apples, preferably organic if possible, the perfect treat. I have used fresh apples for these apple pie pockets for baby.
Wash them thoroughly to remove any pesticides or dirt. You can either peel the apples to eliminate any potential choking hazards or leave the skin on for added nutrition.
Next, core the apples and slice them into manageable pieces, ideally in wedges or cubes appropriate for your baby's age and ability to chew.
For younger babies, cooking the apple slices in a steamer or boiling them briefly until soft can make them easier to handle, great for little hands.
For a bit of variety, you could also bake apple slices with a sprinkle of cinnamon and melted butter or serve them raw with nut butter (if allergens are not a concern) for big kids and older babies, a delicious sweet treat. They taste just like mini apple pies, leave them to cool the individual apple pies on a wire rack.
Always supervise your little one during mealtime to ensure they are safe while exploring these delicious fruits.
What is a Cooking Apple?
A cooking apple, are usually tart apples with lots of flavour and firm texture, is a variety of apple that is ideal for baking and cooking rather than eating raw. They are best this time of year.
Common types include Bramley apples. These apples are great for babies because their natural acidity can enhance the sweetness when cooked, making them more palatable for little ones.
Cooking apples are rich in vitamins and fibre, supporting a healthy digestive system and overall growth.
When pureed or steamed, they can be easily introduced into a baby's diet, offering a nutritious option for baby-led weaning as an easy recipe.
Can I Freeze Apples?
Yes, you can freeze apples for baby-led weaning. Freezing apples is a convenient way to preserve their freshness and make them easily accessible for your little one’s meals.
When you freeze apples, it's best to wash, peel, and slice them into appropriate pieces for your baby to handle safely.
You can also cook the apples lightly before freezing to enhance their softness, making them easier for your baby to gum or chew.
Store the sliced apples in airtight containers or freezer bags, and label them with the date for future reference.
When you're ready to serve, simply thaw the diced apples in the fridge or at room temperature; they can be enjoyed plain or added to various dishes for added flavour and nutrition.
The full recipe can be found below.
Ingredient information
Bread - I have used white bread, but you can use any sliced bread that you may have. Its best to use a soft bread as the edges will stick together better.
Apple - I have used a Bramley apple for this recipe as I like the way they cook and mash. The sweetness of the apples are so tasty and perfect for so many recipes. You could also use different kids of apples such as Granny smith apples too as an alternative.
Cinnamon - I have used a little bit of cinnamon as a fun way to add more flavour to the recipe. You can leave this ingredient out if you like and use a little maple syrup as a substitute, or vanilla extract for older kids.
Butter - I have used a little spread for the binder to the pockets. You can use a dairy free spread to make the recipe vegan/dairy free.
Serving suggestion
The mini desserts would be great served with fresh berries such as strawberries, raspberries or blackberries.
You can also serve with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt too for dipping or a scoop of ice cream. Healthy recipes are a great way to start for baby-led weaning.
The pockets would be great for lunch boxes as a different twist on a sandwich, they are fun portable pies. They are a twist on a little apple pie so great for kids.
Other recipes you may like: Grilled cheese sandwich, Croque Monsieur or Ham and cheese croissant.
Storage instructions
The pockets can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, if stored in an airtight container.
Leave the pockets to cool to room temperature before transferring to the container and the fridge.
If you wanted to freeze the pockets, you will need to get yourself a freezer-safe bag, plastic wrap or an airtight container.
Make sure that which ever you choose are labelled with the item and the date. I use masking tape to label the airtight container.
The toasted pockets will store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To defrost the pockets, leave in the fridge overnight to defrost and make sure it is fully defrosted, before serving.
Once the pockets have been defrosted you will not be able to re freeze.
Equipment used to help with this recipe
Airtight container - I much prefer the click-shut lids on these containers compared to others. They are also dishwasher and freezer safe and BPA free, so very suitable for food use.
Saucepan - So many pan sets out there but I particularly like to use pans with a non-stick surface for ease of cleaning and ones that are suitable for different types of hob surface.
Recipe | Healthy Apple Pie Pockets For Baby and Kids
Healthy Apple Pie Pockets For Baby and Kids
Ingredients
Instructions
- Start by peeling and cutting the apples into small chunks, and remove the core. Add the chopped apples to a saucepan with a splash of water and the cinnamon. Cover and cook on a low heat for 10 minutes until soft.
- While the apples are cooking, cut the crusts off the bread, and set aside. You can use a cookie cutter to make different fun shapes if you like.
- Once the apples are cooked, mash them using a fork. You could blitz in a food processor if you prefer.
- Place 1-2 tablespoons of the apple filling in the centre of the bread, lightly butter each edge of the bread, place the other slice of bread on top of the other.
- Using a fork, press down all of the edges of the bread, making sure the apple mixture stays in the centre.
- Pop into the toaster for 1 minute until golden brown, using a sharp knife cut into strips or triangles.
- Check the filling is not too hot before serving.
Notes
You can make this recipe using puff pastry and make mini pies, which would make this recipe a classic apple pie recipe.
You can also use a biscuit cutter to make apple-shaped pockets. A great way to serve a fun shape to baby and toddler.
©The Petit Spoon
Content and photographs are copyright protected and need prior permission to use elsewhere. Copying and/or pasting full recipes to other websites and any social media is strictly prohibited. Sharing and using the link of this recipe is both encouraged and appreciated! Share this post now!
This beef and noodles slow cooker recipe is very quick to prepare, results in tender beef and is perfect for a mid-week meal option for the whole family.