Apple Hand Pies are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of apple pie in a portable form. These pies are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, making them a versatile choice for any occasion. The flaky crust and sweet apple filling create a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a comforting snack, Apple Hand Pies stand out with their homemade goodness and irresistible taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious Apple Hand Pies ready in no time.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these hand pies suit any meal or celebration.
- Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of creating your own apple filling and crust from scratch.
- Portable Snack: Great for on-the-go eating, these hand pies are easy to pack for picnics or lunchboxes.
- Customizable Flavors: Feel free to mix in your favorite spices or additions to make each batch uniquely yours.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Apple Hand Pies, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Knife
- Pastry brush
Importance of Each Tool
- Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out your pie crust evenly, ensuring the perfect thickness.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients without spilling, keeping your workspace tidy.
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your hand pies evenly while catching any drips.
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
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Apple Hand Pies
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by peeling and slicing the apples into small pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, granulated sugar (to taste), cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well until all apples are coated in the mixture.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the apple mixture and cook for about 3-5 minutes until the apples start to soften but still maintain some crunch. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
If using homemade pie crust, roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out circles using a round cutter or glass—aim for about 4-6 inches in diameter.
Step 4: Assemble the Pies
Place about 2 tablespoons of cooled apple filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges tightly and seal.
Step 5: Frying (or Baking)
For frying: Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place hand pies into hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides (about 3 minutes). For baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake on a lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes until golden.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once cooked, transfer the Apple Hand Pies onto paper towels to drain excess oil (if fried). Allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or alongside ice cream!
How to Serve Apple Hand Pies
Apple Hand Pies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these delightful pastries can be served plain or with some extra touches to enhance their flavor.
With Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the warm, spiced apples perfectly.
- Cinnamon Ice Cream: Adds an extra layer of flavor that works wonderfully with the cinnamon in the pie.
With Whipped Cream
- Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it balances the sweetness of the filling.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or almond extract for a twist.
With Caramel Sauce
- Drizzled Caramel: A sweet addition that enhances the apple flavors and adds richness.
- Salted Caramel Sauce: Offers a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the pies.
As Breakfast Treats
- Warm with Coffee: Enjoy your hand pies fresh out of the oven alongside your morning brew.
- With Fresh Fruit Salad: Add a refreshing side to balance the richness of the pies.
How to Perfect Apple Hand Pies
To achieve the best Apple Hand Pies, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your pies are both delicious and visually appealing.
- Use Fresh Apples: Always opt for fresh Granny Smith and Macoun apples for optimal flavor and texture.
- Chill Your Dough: Refrigerating your pie crust or biscuit dough before rolling it out makes it easier to handle and results in flaky crusts.
- Seal Well: Ensure you properly seal the edges of each pie to prevent filling from leaking during cooking.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on them while frying or baking; overcooking can lead to a tough crust.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: For a beautiful finish, sprinkle powdered sugar on top just before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Hand Pies
When enjoying Apple Hand Pies, consider pairing them with these delightful side dishes. They can complement your meal beautifully and add variety.
- Vanilla Yogurt: A creamy side that adds a tangy contrast to sweet hand pies.
- Sautéed Cinnamon Apples: Enhance the apple flavor by serving this warm side dish alongside your hand pies.
- Crumb Topping Salad: A crunchy salad with granola topping offers a perfect textural contrast.
- Savory Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheeses like cheddar for a sweet-savory combination.
- Fruit Compote: A mixed berry compote brings freshness and acidity that pairs well with apples.
- Herbed Greens Salad: Lightly dressed greens provide a refreshing palate cleanser after rich hand pies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Apple Hand Pies can be fun, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the chilling step – Not chilling the dough can lead to a tough crust. Always chill your pie dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
- Using the wrong apples – Some apples are too soft and won’t hold their shape. Choose firmer varieties like Granny Smith or Macoun for the best results.
- Overfilling the pies – Adding too much filling can cause spills and prevent proper sealing. Fill each hand pie moderately, leaving space around the edges.
- Neglecting to seal properly – If you don’t seal the edges well, your filling will leak out during cooking. Use a fork or your fingers to press down firmly on the edges.
- Cooking at the wrong temperature – Cooking at a low temperature may result in soggy pies. Ensure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F) for crispy, golden crusts.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cooled Apple Hand Pies in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Apple Hand Pies
- To freeze, wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they’ll keep for about 2-3 months.
Reheating Apple Hand Pies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds, but this may result in a softer crust.
- Stovetop: Place over medium heat in a skillet for approximately 5 minutes, flipping halfway through to maintain crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought pie crust for Apple Hand Pies?
Yes, using store-bought pie crust can save time. Just ensure it’s thawed and rolled out according to package instructions for best results.
How do I know when my Apple Hand Pies are done?
Apple Hand Pies are done when they are golden brown on both sides and feel firm to the touch.
Can I customize the filling of my Apple Hand Pies?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, raisins, or spices like nutmeg to customize your filling according to your taste preferences.
What is the best way to serve Apple Hand Pies?
Apple Hand Pies are delightful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dusted with powdered sugar.
Final Thoughts
Apple Hand Pies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different fillings or spices based on your preference. Whether as a breakfast treat or a dessert option, these hand pies are sure to please everyone. Try making them today and enjoy the wonderful flavors!
Apple Hand Pies
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Apple Hand Pies are a delightful treat that bring the classic flavors of apple pie into a convenient, portable form. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these flaky pastries are filled with a sweet and spiced apple mixture that is sure to please everyone. The homemade goodness shines through in every bite, making them an ideal choice for gatherings or as a comforting snack. Enjoy these warm hand pies dusted with powdered sugar or served alongside a scoop of ice cream for an irresistible dessert experience.
Ingredients
- 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
- Homemade pie crust or biscuit dough
Instructions
- Prepare the filling by peeling and slicing the apples. In a bowl, combine apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cook the filling in a saucepan with melted butter for about 3-5 minutes until apples soften slightly. Let cool.
- Roll out your pie dough to about 1/8 inch thick and cut into circles (4-6 inches in diameter).
- Place about 2 tablespoons of cooled filling on each circle, fold over to create half-moons, and seal edges with a fork.
- Fry in hot oil until golden brown or bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Choose fresh Granny Smith and Macoun apples for optimal flavor. Chill dough before rolling for easier handling. Experiment with spices like nutmeg or add nuts to customize your filling.