Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies are a delightful treat that brings the warmth of homemade desserts to your kitchen. These mini fried pies are filled with sweet apple pie filling and feature a crispy, golden crust. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights in, Apple Hand Pies offer a unique twist on traditional desserts. With their bite-sized convenience and irresistible flavor, they are sure to please everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these tasty treats in no time.
• Versatile Filling Options: Use homemade apple pie filling or store-bought to save even more time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual snack, these hand pies fit right in.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of crispy crust and sweet apple filling makes every bite delightful.
• Fun to Make: Involve the kids in the kitchen; making hand pies is a fun activity for all ages.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Apple Hand Pies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Slotted spoon
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out your pie crust evenly, ensuring it cooks uniformly.
• Frying pan or deep fryer: Provides consistent heat for frying, resulting in perfectly crispy hand pies.
• Slotted spoon: Helps remove the hand pies from hot oil while allowing excess oil to drain away.

Ingredients

For these delicious Apple Hand Pies, you will need:

For the Crust

• 1 homemade pie crust recipe, (or 2 boxes of store-bought pie crust dough)

For the Filling

• 2 cups apple pie filling, (or 1 can (21 ounces) store-bought apple pie filling)

For Frying and Glaze

• vegetable oil, (for frying)
• 4 cups (250 g) confectioners’ sugar
• 5-7 tablespoons whole milk, (or more or less until glaze reaches your desired consistency, room temperature)

How to Make Apple Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by rolling out your homemade pie crust on a floured surface. If using store-bought dough, follow package instructions for thawing.

Step 2: Cut Out Circles

Using a round cutter or glass, cut circles of dough about 4 inches in diameter. Gather any scraps and re-roll as needed.

Step 3: Fill the Dough Circles

Place about 1 tablespoon of apple pie filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill!

Step 4: Seal the Pies

Fold each circle over to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for added decoration.

Step 5: Heat the Oil

In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C).

Step 6: Fry the Hand Pies

Carefully add the sealed hand pies into hot oil. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and place them on a cooling rack.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

In a mixing bowl, combine confectioners’ sugar with whole milk. Stir until smooth; adjust milk amount for desired consistency.

Step 8: Glaze Your Pies

Once cooled slightly, drizzle or dip each hand pie into the glaze before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Apple Hand Pies! They are sure to be a hit at any gathering!

How to Serve Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve them as a dessert or a snack, these sweet bites are sure to please everyone. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess to the warm hand pies.
• Caramel Swirl Ice Cream: This adds a rich, buttery flavor that complements the apple filling beautifully.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mini Cheesecakes: These provide a creamy contrast to the crunchy hand pies.
• Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: Their freshness balances the sweetness of the pies.

For Breakfast

• Coffee: A warm cup of coffee makes for a perfect morning treat alongside your Apple Hand Pies.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with fruits and granola adds health benefits and variety.

At Parties

• Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing option that pairs well with the sweetness of the pies.
• Cheese Board: Include cheeses that complement apples, such as brie or cheddar, for an exciting mix.

How to Perfect Apple Hand Pies

Creating the perfect Apple Hand Pies takes practice, but these tips will help you achieve delicious results every time.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Keeping your pie crust ingredients cold helps create a flaky texture that is irresistible.
• Don’t Overfill: Use just enough apple pie filling; too much can cause them to burst during frying.
• Seal Properly: Ensure the edges are sealed well to prevent any filling from leaking out while cooking.
• Heat Oil Adequately: The oil should be hot enough before adding the pies; this ensures they fry evenly and become crispy.
• Experiment with Spices: Adding cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile of your filling.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies make for a fantastic dessert, but pairing them with great side dishes can take your meal to another level. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it perfectly complements the rich flavors of the hand pies.
2. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Let guests create their own sundaes with toppings like nuts, chocolate syrup, and sprinkles.
3. Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai enhance the apple flavors beautifully.
4. Roasted Nuts: Salty roasted nuts provide a nice contrast to the sweet hand pies.
5. Fresh Fruit Slices: Crisp and refreshing fruits like pears or berries add brightness to your dessert spread.
6. Hot Cocoa: Rich hot cocoa pairs wonderfully with apple desserts on chilly days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Hand Pies can be fun and rewarding, but certain pitfalls can ruin your experience. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Using the wrong crust: Many people choose a store-bought crust without checking its quality. Always opt for a fresh, flaky crust or make your own for the best results.
• Overfilling the pies: It’s tempting to add lots of filling, but overfilling can lead to messy pies. Stick to about 2 tablespoons of filling per pie.
• Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds a delightful sweetness. Don’t skip it; it elevates your pies and makes them look more appealing.
• Not sealing properly: If you don’t seal the edges well, the filling may leak out during frying. Use a fork to crimp edges or press firmly with your fingers.
• Frying at too high a temperature: Frying at high heat can burn the crust while leaving the inside cold. Maintain medium heat for even cooking.
• Ignoring cooling time: Letting pies cool on a wire rack is essential. It prevents sogginess and keeps them crispy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Apple Hand Pies

• Freeze unbaked hand pies for up to 3 months.
• Wrap each pie in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.

Reheating Apple Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds, but this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Hand Pies.

Can I use store-bought pie filling?

Yes, you can use store-bought apple pie filling if you’re short on time. Just be sure to choose a high-quality brand for best flavor.

How do I make my hand pies crispy?

To achieve crispy hand pies, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying.

Can I customize the filling?

Absolutely! You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in other fruits like berries or peaches for variety.

How long do Apple Hand Pies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to three days in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Hand Pies are not just delicious; they are also versatile and customizable! You can experiment with different fillings and spices to create your unique version. Try them out today and enjoy this delightful treat that brings joy and comfort!