Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, enjoying a cozy dessert, or simply craving something sweet, these delightful pastries bring together the classic flavors of apple pie in a portable form. With a flaky crust and warm, spiced filling, Apple Hand Pies are sure to impress friends and family alike. Their versatility makes them suitable for holidays, picnics, or just a comforting snack at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These Apple Hand Pies require simple ingredients and basic cooking skills, making them accessible for everyone.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet apples and warm spices creates a mouthwatering filling that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as breakfast, brunch, or dessert; they fit perfectly into any meal plan.
• Portable Snack: Their hand-held size makes them perfect for on-the-go snacking or lunchbox treats.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of apples or add-ins like nuts or raisins for a unique twist.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Apple Hand Pies, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help streamline your process and ensure great results every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Baking sheet
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Ensures even dough thickness for a perfectly baked crust.
• Mixing bowls: Keeps ingredients organized while allowing for easy mixing.
• Saucepan: Ideal for cooking the apple filling to enhance flavors before baking.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy base for your pies that allows for even heat distribution during cooking.

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 Apple Filling

1. Peel and core the apples, then chop them into small pieces.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
3. Add chopped apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Cook until the apples are tender and slightly syrupy, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

1. On a floured surface, roll out your homemade pie crust or biscuit dough until it’s about 1/8 inch thick.
2. Use a round cutter to cut out circles of dough.

Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies

1. Place about a tablespoon of apple filling in the center of each circle.
2. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press edges to seal.
3. Use a fork to crimp edges and create decorative patterns.

Step 4: Frying the Pies

1. Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
2. Carefully place pies in hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides (about 3 minutes).
3. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Apple Hand Pies!

How to Serve Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, there are plenty of creative serving suggestions to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm apple hand pies, adding a creamy contrast to the spiced filling.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the sweetness and complements the apple flavor. It adds an indulgent touch that everyone will love.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Fresh whipped cream is a light and fluffy addition that balances the richness of the pie crust and filling.

Served with Coffee or Tea

• Pairing your apple hand pies with a hot beverage like coffee or tea makes for a cozy snack, perfect for any time of day.

With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• A simple sprinkle of powdered sugar on top gives your hand pies an elegant look and adds just a hint of sweetness.

How to Perfect Apple Hand Pies

Creating the perfect Apple Hand Pies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pies turn out delicious every time.

• Use fresh apples – Fresh, crisp apples add better flavor than older ones. Granny Smith and Macoun are excellent choices for balance between tartness and sweetness.

• Don’t overfill – Overfilling can cause the pies to burst while cooking. A tablespoon or two of filling per pie is usually ideal.

• Seal edges well – Ensure that the edges are tightly sealed to prevent leaks during frying or baking. You can use a fork to crimp them securely.

• Adjust spices – Feel free to tweak the spices according to your taste. Adding more cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile.

• Chill before cooking – Chilling the assembled hand pies for about 30 minutes helps them hold their shape during cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies make a great standalone treat but pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – The classic choice that adds creaminess and balances the warm spices in apple hand pies.

2. Caramel Sauce – A rich, sweet addition that complements the apple filling perfectly, making each bite even more decadent.

3. Fresh Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad provides freshness and can include seasonal fruits for added color and flavor.

4. Cheese Platter – A selection of sharp cheeses contrasts nicely with the sweetness of apple hand pies, providing a savory balance.

5. Coffee or Tea – Hot beverages enhance the experience and provide warmth, making them ideal companions for your hand pies.

6. Yogurt Parfait – Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a refreshing side dish that adds texture and nutrition alongside your sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Hand Pies can be simple, but small mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the chill time: If you don’t let your dough chill, it may become too warm and hard to handle. Always refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
• Overfilling the pies: Adding too much filling can cause them to burst open while cooking. Stick to 1-2 tablespoons of filling per pie.
• Neglecting sealing edges: Failing to properly seal the edges can lead to a mess. Use a fork or your fingers to crimp the edges securely.
• Not preheating oil: Cooking in oil that isn’t hot enough can result in greasy pies. Make sure the oil is heated to 350°F before frying.
• Using cold filling: Cold apple filling doesn’t cook evenly. Make sure your filling is at room temperature before adding it to the dough.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the pies are completely cool before sealing.

Freezing Apple Hand Pies

• Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds per pie, but this may make them soggy.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Apple Hand Pies that might help you:

Can I use store-bought dough for Apple Hand Pies?

Yes! Store-bought pie crust or biscuit dough works well if you’re short on time.

What types of apples are best for Apple Hand Pies?

Granny Smith and Macoun apples are great choices due to their balance of sweetness and tartness.

How do I make my Apple Hand Pies crispy?

Ensure your oil is hot enough when frying, and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature.

Can I make these pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pies, then freeze them until you’re ready to fry or bake.

Final Thoughts

Apple Hand Pies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various spices or add-ins like nuts or caramel. They make a perfect treat for breakfast or dessert! Try making these delightful hand pies today, and enjoy a cozy bite of homemade goodness.