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Fried Apple Hand Pies

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Delicious Fried Apple Hand Pies: A Classic Comfort Dessert

Nothing says comfort like the warm, sweet flavors of an apple hand pie. These delightful treats feature a buttery, flaky crust filled with tender, spiced apples. Perfect for fall, these hand pies bring the flavors of a classic apple pie into a handheld format, ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a cozy snack. In this recipe, we’ll guide you step-by-step to create your own fried apple hand pies, complete with a sweet glaze that makes every bite unforgettable.

Ingredients for Fried Apple Hand Pies

Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup shortening
  • 4-8 tbsp ice water

Apple Filling:

  • 2 large firm apples (such as Granny Smith or Honey Crisp), peeled, cored, and diced (about 2 cups)
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp apple pie spice
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  • 4 tbsp water
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch

Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Fried Apple Hand Pies

Step 1: Make the Dough

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients
    In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 tsp of salt.
  2. Cut in the Shortening
    Using a pastry cutter or two knives, cut 3/4 cup of shortening into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse gravel.
  3. Add Ice Water
    Slowly add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition until a dough forms. You may need between 4 to 8 tablespoons depending on humidity.
  4. Form and Chill the Dough
    Once the dough comes together, remove it from the bowl, knead it a few times on a lightly floured surface, and form it into a disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

  1. Dice the Apples
    Peel, core, and dice the apples into small pieces (about 1/2-inch cubes).
  2. Cook the Apples
    In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the diced apples, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of apple pie spice, and 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon. Cook, stirring frequently, until the apples begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Thicken the Filling
    In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of water with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Pour the cornstarch mixture into the skillet with the apples, stirring constantly until the filling thickens and becomes glossy, about 2 minutes.
  4. Let Cool
    Remove the apple filling from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough and Assemble the Hand Pies

  1. Roll the Dough
    Take the chilled dough from the refrigerator and place it on a floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/8-inch thickness.
  2. Cut Dough Circles
    Use a 5-inch round cutter (or the largest cutter you have) to cut out circles from the dough. If your circles are smaller, gently roll them out to a 5-inch diameter.
  3. Add the Filling
    Place about 1 heaping tablespoon of apple filling on one half of each dough circle.
  4. Fold and Crimp
    Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges with a fork to seal, making sure there are no gaps where filling can leak out during frying.

Step 4: Fry the Hand Pies

  1. Prepare the Oil
    In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat oil to 375°F (190°C). Use a cooking thermometer to monitor the temperature, as maintaining a steady temperature is key for even frying.
  2. Fry the Pies
    Fry the pies in small batches, cooking each for about 2 minutes per side or until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
  3. Drain the Pies
    Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried pies to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
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Step 5: Make the Glaze and Serve

  1. Prepare the Glaze
    In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  2. Glaze the Hand Pies
    Place the fried pies on a wire rack and brush the glaze over the top of each one. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
  3. Serve and Enjoy
    Your fried apple hand pies are ready to enjoy! Serve warm for a comforting treat or at room temperature for a delicious snack anytime.

Tips for Perfect Fried Apple Hand Pies

  • Keep the Dough Cold: Cold dough is easier to work with and results in a flakier crust. Refrigerate the dough whenever it feels too soft.
  • Choose Firm Apples: Granny Smith or Honey Crisp apples hold up well during cooking, giving you a filling with a perfect balance of tart and sweet.
  • Adjust Sugar in the Filling: If you prefer a less sweet filling, reduce the sugar slightly. Taste as you cook to get the right sweetness level.
  • Watch the Oil Temperature: Maintaining a steady 375°F is crucial for crispy, evenly cooked pies. Too hot, and they’ll burn; too cool, and they’ll become greasy.
  • Drain Excess Oil: Allow the fried pies to drain on paper towels to prevent them from becoming soggy.

FAQs

Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can make the dough up to 2 days in advance. Store it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the dough for up to a month.

Can I Use Store-Bought Pie Crust?

Absolutely. If you’re short on time, store-bought pie crust works well. However, homemade dough tends to have a better texture and flavor for fried hand pies.

What Oil Is Best for Frying?

Neutral oils like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil are ideal for frying due to their high smoke points and mild flavor.

How Do I Store Leftover Hand Pies?

Store any leftover hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat them in an oven or air fryer for a crispier texture.

Can I Freeze Fried Apple Hand Pies?

Yes, you can freeze the pies before or after frying. Place assembled, unfried pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag. To cook, let them thaw slightly and fry as directed. For already fried pies, let them cool before freezing and reheat in an oven.

Can I Bake the Hand Pies Instead of Frying?

Yes, you can bake these pies if you prefer. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment, brush with an egg wash, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

These fried apple hand pies are a nostalgic dessert that combines the best of both worlds—sweet and tart apple filling inside a flaky, golden crust. The touch of glaze on top adds a final layer of sweetness, making each bite as delicious as the last. Enjoy these cozy hand pies with family and friends, or save some to savor throughout the week!

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