Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies are a delightful treat that brings the warmth of homemade goodness to any occasion. These little pockets of joy are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, making them a versatile addition to your recipe collection. With a flaky crust and sweet apple filling, Apple Hand Pies stand out for their incredible flavor and ease of preparation. Whether you’re sharing them at a family gathering or enjoying them as a cozy snack at home, these hand pies are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these delicious hand pies.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to experiment with different apples or spices based on your preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual brunch, these hand pies fit right in.
• Portable Treats: Their handheld size makes them great for on-the-go snacks or lunchbox surprises.
• Deliciously Comforting: The warm apple filling wrapped in a buttery crust is a comforting bite that evokes nostalgia.

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Tools and Preparation

To make Apple Hand Pies, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment. Having the right tools will streamline your cooking process and help ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: This tool helps you achieve an even thickness in your dough for perfectly shaped hand pies.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet is essential for even cooking and easy transfer in and out of the oven.
• Mixing bowls: Having a variety of sizes allows you to prepare your filling and crust efficiently.

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

1. Peel, core, and slice the apples.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with brown sugar, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. If using homemade dough, roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick.
2. Use a round cutter to cut circles from the dough.

Step 3: Fill the Hand Pies

1. Place a spoonful of the apple mixture in the center of each dough circle.
2. Fold the dough over to create half-moon shapes and seal by pressing edges together with fingers or a fork.

Step 4: Fry the Hand Pies

1. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
2. Once hot, carefully place several hand pies in the pan at once (don’t overcrowd).
3. Fry for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove from oil and let drain on paper towels.
2. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving warm.

Enjoy your 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 at a brunch or as a dessert, there are plenty of options to enhance their flavor and appeal.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream: Serve warm apple hand pies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a classic combination.
• Cinnamon ice cream: Add a twist by pairing with cinnamon ice cream to complement the spices in the filling.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Warm caramel sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel adds sweetness and richness, making the pie even more indulgent.
• Salted caramel: For a sweet and salty contrast, try using salted caramel sauce over your apple hand pies.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Fresh whipped cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a lovely touch to the rich filling of the pies.
• Flavored whipped cream: Experiment with flavors like vanilla or cinnamon for an extra layer of taste.

With Coffee or Tea

• Brewed coffee: A hot cup of coffee pairs perfectly with the warm, sugary filling of apple hand pies.
• Herbal tea: Consider serving with chamomile or peppermint tea for a soothing contrast.

How to Perfect Apple Hand Pies

To achieve the best Apple Hand Pies, follow these simple tips. They can help ensure your pies have that perfect texture and flavor.

• Choose the right apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Macoun, for balance in flavor.
• Chill your dough: Keeping the dough cold helps create flakiness when baking or frying your hand pies.
• Seal properly: Make sure to crimp the edges well to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
• Use an egg wash: Brushing the tops with an egg wash gives your pies a beautiful golden color and adds shine.
• Don’t overfill: Fill each pie generously but avoid overstuffing; this prevents them from bursting while cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies can be complemented by several delicious side dishes. Here’s a list to inspire your meal planning.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that brings coolness against the warmth of the pie.
2. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts – These sweet treats add another layer of flavor while keeping things festive.
3. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness and provides a light option alongside the rich hand pies.
4. Cheese Platter – Include sharp cheddar or brie for a savory contrast to the sweet apple filling.
5. Coffee Cake – A slice of moist coffee cake makes for an excellent breakfast option when served with apple hand pies.
6. Pecan Pie Bars – If you love nuts, these bars offer both crunchiness and additional sweetness that pairs well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Hand Pies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to avoid.

• Using the wrong apples: Not all apples work well for pies. Choose tart apples like Granny Smith or a mix for flavor.
• Overfilling the pies: Adding too much filling can cause the pies to burst during cooking. Keep it moderate to ensure they seal properly.
• Neglecting the crust: A tough crust can ruin your pies. Roll it out evenly and don’t overwork the dough.
• Skipping chilling time: Not allowing the dough to chill can lead to soggy bottoms. Always refrigerate before rolling out.
• Not sealing edges properly: Failing to crimp or seal edges may result in filling leakage. Use a fork or your fingers to create a strong seal.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Apple Hand Pies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Apple Hand Pies

• Wrap each pie in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• They freeze well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium heat for 20-30 seconds. This may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Apple Hand Pies?

Apple Hand Pies are individual-sized pastries filled with spiced apple filling, perfect for snacking or dessert.

Can I use store-bought pie crust?

Yes, using store-bought pie crust is an easy option that saves time while still delivering delicious results.

How do I customize my Apple Hand Pies?

You can add different spices like ginger or cloves, or even include nuts or raisins for added texture and flavor.

Are Apple Hand Pies suitable for breakfast?

Absolutely! They make a delightful breakfast treat or brunch option that pairs well with coffee.

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

They should be golden brown on the outside and smell fragrant when baked properly.

Final Thoughts

Apple Hand Pies are not just tasty; they’re also versatile and easy to customize! Whether you enjoy them as breakfast or dessert, these little treats bring warmth and joy. Feel free to experiment with different fruits or spices to make them your own.