Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of apple pie into a portable, hand-held version. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these pies are filled with a sweet and spiced apple mixture that will warm your heart. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a cozy night at home, Apple Hand Pies make for an irresistible snack. They stand out for their flaky crust and delicious filling, making them a favorite among all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be enjoying fresh Apple Hand Pies in no time.
• Versatile: These pies can be served as a breakfast item, a tasty snack, or a sweet dessert.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, Apple Hand Pies are ideal for parties, picnics, or family gatherings.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to experiment with different spices or add-ins like raisins or nuts to suit your taste.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for quick treats later on.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Apple Hand Pies, you will need some essential tools and equipment that make the process easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Measuring cups
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Ensures even thickness when rolling out your pie crust.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining your apple filling ingredients effortlessly.
• Frying pan: Perfect for frying the pies evenly until golden brown.

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

Start by peeling and slicing the apples into thin pieces. Place them in a mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In the same mixing bowl with apples:
1. Add unsalted butter and brown sugar.
2. Mix in granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference).
3. Add lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface:
1. Roll out your homemade pie crust or biscuit dough to about ¼ inch thick.
2. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or a glass.

Step 4: Fill the Dough Circles

Place about one tablespoon of apple filling in the center of each dough circle.

Step 5: Seal the Hand Pies

1. Fold the dough over to create half-moon shapes.
2. Press edges together firmly; use a fork to crimp edges for sealing.

Step 6: Fry the Hand Pies

In a frying pan:
1. Heat oil over medium heat.
2. Carefully place hand pies in hot oil; fry until golden brown (about 3 minutes on each side).

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once fried, remove from oil and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade Apple Hand Pies fresh!

How to Serve Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies are deliciously versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them as a dessert or a delightful breakfast treat, these hand pies are sure to please everyone.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm Apple Hand Pies. The creamy texture complements the sweet filling perfectly.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful presentation, making your hand pies even more tempting.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream enhances the richness of the pie, offering a delightful contrast to the crispy pastry.

Served with Hot Tea or Coffee

• Enjoying Apple Hand Pies with a cup of hot tea or coffee makes for a cozy snack or breakfast option that warms the soul.

Topped with Powdered Sugar

• A light dusting of powdered sugar gives your hand pies an elegant touch and adds just the right amount of sweetness without being overpowering.

How to Perfect Apple Hand Pies

To make sure your Apple Hand Pies turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips for best results.

• Use Fresh Apples: Fresh apples will provide the best flavor and texture. Granny Smith and Macoun apples work wonderfully for this recipe.

• Chill Your Dough: Keeping your dough chilled helps achieve a flaky crust. Make sure to refrigerate it before rolling it out.

• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overstuff your pies. A little filling goes a long way, preventing leaks and ensuring even cooking.

• Seal Properly: Ensure that you seal the edges well to keep the filling from escaping during cooking. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

• Fry at the Right Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) when frying. This ensures that they cook evenly and become golden brown without absorbing too much oil.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing offers a creamy counterpoint to the warm pie filling.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over your hand pies adds an indulgent sweetness that many enjoy.
3. Cinnamon Sugar Dust: A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top creates an aromatic finish that elevates each bite.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of hand pies, providing bright flavors alongside.
5. Coffee or Tea: Serving warm beverages like coffee or tea complements the warmth of Apple Hand Pies perfectly.
6. Yogurt Parfait: A yogurt parfait with granola and fresh berries offers a healthy contrast while still being delicious.
7. Cheese Platter: Pairing with mild cheeses can create an interesting flavor combination that many guests will appreciate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Hand Pies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your pies turn out perfectly.

• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can lead to tough crusts. Make sure to refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
• Overfilling the pies: Adding too much filling can cause leaks during cooking. Aim for about one tablespoon of filling per pie to avoid mess.
• Neglecting the sealing process: Failing to seal the edges properly can result in open pies. Use a fork or your fingers to crimp the edges securely.
• Using unripe apples: Unripe apples lack flavor and sweetness. Choose ripe varieties like Granny Smith or Macoun for the best taste.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking Apple Hand Pies for too long can make them dry. Keep an eye on them, and remove when golden brown.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Apple Hand Pies in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Apple Hand Pies

• Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap then foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking often to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Hand Pies.

What is the best type of apple for hand pies?

For Apple Hand Pies, tart apples like Granny Smith and sweet apples like Macoun work wonderfully together, balancing flavor and texture.

Can I use store-bought pie crust?

Yes, using store-bought pie crust is a convenient option if you’re short on time! Just roll it out and fill with your favorite apple mixture.

How do I prevent my hand pies from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, ensure that you drain excess moisture from your apple filling before adding it to the dough. Also, bake until golden brown.

Can I make Apple Hand Pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble them ahead of time, then store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Apple Hand Pies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different spices or even add nuts for extra texture. Enjoy these delightful treats as breakfast or dessert – they are sure to satisfy any craving!