Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies are a delicious treat that brings the classic flavors of apple pie into a handheld version. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert, these mini pies combine homemade apple filling with a flaky crust. Their warm, comforting taste makes them ideal for family gatherings, picnics, or simply enjoying at home. With their crispy exterior and sweet apple filling, Apple Hand Pies are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With only 33 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up these treats in no time.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet apple filling and flaky crust.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as breakfast bites or a delightful dessert after dinner.
• Homemade Goodness: The combination of fresh apples and homemade dough elevates this recipe above store-bought options.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to add your favorite spices or mix in other fruits for a unique twist.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Apple Hand Pies, gather your tools and prepare your ingredients. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet (if baking)

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out your dough evenly, ensuring consistent thickness for even cooking.
• Frying pan: Ideal for frying the hand pies to achieve that perfect golden brown color.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are critical for achieving the right balance of flavors in your filling.

Ingredients

Apple Hand Pies are made with homemade apple pie filling inside homemade pie crust or biscuit dough.

For the Filling

• 5 medium/large apples (Granny Smith & Macoun)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/4-1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Crust

• Homemade pie crust or biscuit dough

How to Make Apple Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

1. Peel, core, and slice the apples into small pieces.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine sliced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference), cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. If using homemade pie crust or biscuit dough, roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick.
2. Cut circles from the dough using a round cutter or a glass.

Step 3: Fill the Hand Pies

1. Place a spoonful of apple filling in the center of each dough circle.
2. Fold the circle over to form a half-moon shape. Press edges together firmly to seal.

Step 4: Frying the Pies

1. Heat unsalted butter in a frying pan over medium heat.
2. Carefully place hand pies in the hot butter and fry for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
3. Remove from pan and let cool slightly before serving.

Now you have delicious Apple Hand Pies ready to delight! Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for an irresistible snack!

How to Serve Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these little treats are perfect for any occasion.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm apple hand pies. The creamy texture complements the flaky crust.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of rich caramel sauce adds sweetness and enhances the apple flavor, making for a decadent treat.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream can be dolloped on top for a refreshing contrast to the warm filling.

Served with Coffee or Tea

• Pairing your apple hand pies with a hot beverage makes for a cozy snack, perfect for afternoon tea or coffee breaks.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Fresh slices of fruit like strawberries or blueberries add brightness and balance to the sweetness of the pies.

How to Perfect Apple Hand Pies

To ensure your Apple Hand Pies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh apples: Fresh apples provide the best flavor and texture. Granny Smith and Macoun varieties work well together for a balanced taste.

• Chill the dough: Chilling your pie crust or biscuit dough before rolling it out helps maintain its shape during cooking and results in a flakier texture.

• Don’t overfill: Avoid overfilling your hand pies. Too much filling can cause them to burst open while cooking.

• Seal edges properly: Make sure to crimp the edges well to prevent any leakage during frying or baking.

• Experiment with spices: Customize your filling by adding different spices like ginger or allspice for added depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies can be enjoyed alongside various side dishes that complement their sweet and spiced flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that adds creaminess to your dessert experience.

2. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts – These fluffy treats enhance the autumnal flavors of your apple hand pies.

3. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the pies.

4. Cheese Platter – Combining sweet hand pies with savory cheeses creates an interesting flavor contrast.

5. Hot Chocolate – A warm cup of cocoa is an inviting drink that pairs well with sweet pastries.

6. Maple Syrup Drizzle – A light drizzle adds sweetness and complements the spice in the apple filling beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Hand Pies can be fun, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. Avoiding these will help you make the best pies possible.

• Using the wrong apples: Choosing apples that are too soft or mealy can lead to a soggy filling. Stick with firm varieties like Granny Smith or Macoun for the best results.
• Skipping the cooling time: If you fill your dough with hot apple filling, it can make the dough soggy. Always let the filling cool before assembling your hand pies.
• Not sealing properly: Failing to seal the edges of your hand pies can result in leaks during cooking. Use a fork to crimp the edges securely and prevent any spills.
• Overfilling the pies: Adding too much filling can cause them to burst open while frying or baking. Keep the filling moderate to ensure they cook evenly without spilling.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking Apple Hand Pies for too long can lead to burnt crusts. Keep an eye on them, and remove them when golden brown for a perfect finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Apple Hand Pies in an airtight container.
• They will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Apple Hand Pies

• Freeze unbaked or baked hand pies in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warmed through, but be cautious as this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally, until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Apple Hand Pies.

What is the best type of apple for Apple Hand Pies?

The best apples for Apple Hand Pies are tart and firm varieties like Granny Smith and Macoun. They hold their shape well during cooking.

Can I use store-bought pie crust?

Yes, using store-bought pie crust is a great option if you’re short on time. Just follow package instructions for handling and baking.

How do I make my Apple Hand Pies extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, brush the outside of each pie with an egg wash before baking or frying. This gives a beautiful golden color and crunchy texture.

Can I customize my Apple Hand Pies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, raisins, or different spices like ginger or allspice to customize your filling according to your taste preferences.

Are these pies suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze both unbaked and baked Apple Hand Pies. Just ensure they are stored properly to maintain their freshness.

Final Thoughts

Apple Hand Pies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various fillings or spices based on your preferences. They make a delightful treat for breakfast or dessert. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how comforting and satisfying they are!

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Apple Hand Pies

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Apple Hand Pies are a delightful handheld version of the classic apple pie, perfect for any occasion. With a flaky, golden crust filled with sweet, spiced apple filling, these mini treats bring warmth and comfort to your table. They’re quick to make—ready in just 33 minutes—making them an ideal choice for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzled with caramel sauce for an irresistible snack that will impress family and friends alike.

• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Yield: About 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 5 medium/large apples (Granny Smith & Macoun)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/4–1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Homemade pie crust or biscuit dough

Instructions

1. Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice apples. Mix with lemon juice, sugars, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Make the dough: Roll out your homemade pie crust or biscuit dough to about 1/8-inch thickness and cut into circles.
3. Fill the pies: Place a spoonful of apple filling on each circle and fold over to seal.
4. Fry the pies: Heat butter in a frying pan over medium heat and fry hand pies until golden brown on both sides.

• Author: Stephanie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Chill your dough before rolling it out for better texture. Customize your filling with additional spices like ginger or allspice for a unique flavor twist. Ensure edges are sealed properly to prevent leakage during cooking.