Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of apple pie in a portable, bite-sized form. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these hand pies are filled with a warm, spiced apple mixture and encased in flaky pastry. Their versatility makes them suitable for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy evenings at home. The crispy exterior and sweet apple filling create a mouthwatering experience that will leave everyone wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up Apple Hand Pies in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of Granny Smith and Macoun apples provides a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them warm for breakfast, as a snack, or with ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Portable Treats: These hand pies are easy to take on the go, making them ideal for picnics or lunchboxes.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to mix in your favorite spices or add nuts for extra texture.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Apple Hand Pies efficiently, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and enhance your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Pastry cutter or knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out your pie crust evenly, ensuring a consistent thickness.
• Mixing bowls: Used for combining your apple filling ingredients without creating a mess.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking multiple hand pies at once.

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, core, and slice the apples into thin pieces.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
3. Add the sliced apples to the skillet along with brown sugar, granulated sugar (use as desired), lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Cook until apples soften slightly, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Roll Out Your Dough

1. On a lightly 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 (about 4 inches in diameter).

Step 3: Fill the Dough Circles

1. Place a tablespoon of the cooled apple filling in the center of each dough circle.
2. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press edges together firmly to seal.
3. Crimp edges with a fork for extra security.

Step 4: Fry the Hand Pies

1. In a deep skillet or fryer, heat oil over medium heat until hot (about 350°F).
2. Carefully place 2-3 hand pies in hot oil at once; fry until golden brown on both sides (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Allow your Apple Hand Pies to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as is or dusted with powdered sugar for added sweetness!

How to Serve Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch, as a dessert, or as a snack, these pies are sure to please everyone.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream adds a creamy texture that perfectly complements the warm filling of the hand pies.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the sweetness and richness, making each bite even more indulgent.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream can add lightness and contrast to the flavors of the apple filling.

Served with Fresh Fruit

• Pairing with fresh fruit like berries can offer a refreshing balance to the sweet and spiced hand pies.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• A warm beverage like coffee or tea is an excellent choice to enjoy alongside these delicious pastries.

How to Perfect Apple Hand Pies

Creating perfect Apple Hand Pies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pies turn out just right.

• Use Fresh Apples: Fresh apples provide the best flavor and texture for your filling. Opt for varieties like Granny Smith for tartness.

• Roll Dough Thin: Thinner dough leads to crispier hand pies. Aim for about 1/8 inch thickness when rolling out your crust.

• Seal Edges Well: Make sure to seal the edges securely to prevent the filling from leaking during frying or baking.

• Fry at Correct Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before frying. This helps achieve a golden crust without absorbing too much oil.

• Experiment with Spices: Don’t be afraid to adjust spices like cinnamon and nutmeg according to your taste preferences for a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Hand Pies

Pairing side dishes with Apple Hand Pies can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic pairing that balances warmth and cold, enhancing each bite of pie.

2. Caramel Sauce
   Adds rich sweetness; serve warm for a gooey treat over your hand pies.

3. Fresh Berries Salad
   A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provides freshness and acidity that complements the sweetness of the pies.

4. Whipped Cream
   Light and fluffy, it contrasts well with the dense filling of apple hand pies for an airy finish.

5. Hot Tea
   A soothing beverage choice that harmonizes well with sweet desserts; choose flavors like chamomile or chai.

6. Cinnamon Sugar Dusting
   Sprinkle this mixture over the top after baking or frying for added sweetness and spice!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Hand Pies can be fun, but avoiding common pitfalls is essential for perfect results.

• Using the wrong apples: Choose apples that are firm and tart, like Granny Smith or Macoun. They hold their shape and balance sweetness well.
• Skipping the chill time: If you’re making homemade pie crust, chilling it before rolling out prevents it from shrinking during baking. Don’t skip this step!
• Overfilling your pies: Adding too much filling can cause the pies to burst open while cooking. Stick to a tablespoon or two of filling for best results.
• Not sealing properly: Ensure you crimp the edges of your pies well, sealing them tightly to prevent leaks. Use water to help seal if needed.
• Frying at the wrong temperature: Frying in oil that’s too hot can burn the crust before the filling cooks through. Aim for medium heat for even frying.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Apple Hand Pies

• Wrap pies individually in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm; this may result in a softer crust.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side for a crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Hand Pies.

Can I use store-bought pie crust for Apple Hand Pies?

Yes, store-bought pie crust is a great time-saver and works perfectly with this recipe. Just follow package instructions.

What type of apples are best for making Apple Hand Pies?

Granny Smith and Macoun apples are excellent choices because they provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.

How do I know when my Apple Hand Pies are done?

Apple Hand Pies are done when they are golden brown on the outside and feel hot when pressed gently.

Can I make Apple Hand Pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze them ahead of time. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.

Are there any variations I can try with Apple Hand Pies?

Feel free to customize your hand pies by adding spices like ginger or nutmeg, or even including dried fruits like cranberries for extra flavor!

Final Thoughts

Apple Hand Pies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different spices or fruits according to your taste. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert! Try making these cozy treats today, and enjoy their warm, comforting flavors.