Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies are a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of apple pie in a portable form. These charming pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert and can be made from scratch with fresh apples and a flaky crust. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, Apple Hand Pies offer a warm, comforting taste that is hard to resist. Plus, they can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, preparing Apple Hand Pies is a breeze.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates an irresistible filling that everyone will love.
• Versatile: Enjoy them as a breakfast treat, dessert, or snack; these hand pies fit any time of day.
• Customizable: You can use different types of apples or add additional spices to create your unique flavor.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings per recipe, these hand pies are great for parties or gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious world of Apple Hand Pies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Rolling pin
• Frying pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your filling ingredients evenly.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes it easy to peel and slice the apples quickly.
• Rolling pin: This tool helps roll out the dough to the perfect thickness for your hand pies.

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

Begin by washing and peeling the apples.
1. Slice them into thin pieces.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the apple slices with brown sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

In a frying pan over medium heat:
1. Melt the butter.
2. Add the apple mixture to the pan.
3. Cook until the apples are tender but not mushy, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

If using homemade pie crust:
1. Roll out your dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick.
2. Cut out circles using a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter).

Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies

1. Place a spoonful of apple filling in the center of each dough circle.
2. Fold over to create a half-moon shape.
3. Press edges together firmly with your fingers or a fork to seal.

Step 5: Fry the Hand Pies

In a frying pan:
1. Heat oil over medium heat.
2. Carefully place each hand pie in the hot oil.
3. Fry until golden brown on both sides (about 2-3 minutes per side).
4. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.

Enjoy your delicious Apple Hand Pies warm or at room temperature!

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 gathering or enjoying them at home, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and enhances the apple flavor.
• Cinnamon Ice Cream: For a spiced twist, this ice cream complements the cinnamon in the hand pies perfectly.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Caramel Drizzle: A sweet and gooey addition that elevates the flavor profiles and adds richness.
• Salted Caramel Sauce: The hint of salt balances the sweetness, making for an indulgent treat.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Strawberries: Fresh berries add a vibrant color and freshness to the plate.
• Mixed Berries: A combination of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries provides a tart contrast to the sweetness of the pies.

Served Warm with Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this topping adds a lovely texture.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Try vanilla or cinnamon-flavored whipped cream for added depth of flavor.

How to Perfect Apple Hand Pies

To ensure your Apple Hand Pies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Apples: Opt for crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor and texture.
• Chill Your Dough: Keeping your pie crust or biscuit dough cold prevents it from becoming tough during baking or frying.
• Seal Properly: Make sure to crimp the edges well to prevent leaking during cooking.
• Control Cooking Temperature: Maintain an even temperature while frying or baking to achieve golden-brown crusts without burning.
• Let Cool Before Serving: Allow your hand pies to cool slightly; this helps set the filling and avoids burns.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some great options to consider when serving them.

1. Crispy Salad: A light salad with mixed greens balances the richness of the pies.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can bring out different flavors in the hand pies.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit makes for a refreshing side that complements dessert nicely.
4. Spiced Nuts: Crunchy nuts add texture and contrast to the soft filling of the hand pies.
5. Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote can enhance the apple flavor or provide a different fruity note.
6. Pecan Pie Bites: These mini desserts echo similar flavors and create an appealing dessert spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Hand Pies can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes ensures delicious results.

• Using the wrong apples: Not all apples are ideal for pies. Choose tart varieties like Granny Smith or Macoun for a balanced flavor.
• Skipping the chilling step: If you don’t chill your dough, it may become too tough when baked. Always refrigerate your pie crust or biscuit dough before rolling it out.
• Overfilling the pies: Filling them too much can lead to messy leaks. Aim for a spoonful of filling in each pie and leave some space around the edges.
• Not sealing properly: Failing to seal the edges can result in the filling spilling out during cooking. Press and crimp edges well to keep everything inside.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your pies as they bake to avoid overcooking or undercooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Apple Hand Pies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Hand Pies

• Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped pies in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pies on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds. This method may make the crust softer, not crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat. Place pies in the skillet and cover with a lid for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought pie crust for Apple Hand Pies?

Yes, using store-bought pie crust can save time. Just make sure it’s rolled out thinly for best results.

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

Look for a golden-brown color on the crust. The filling should be bubbling slightly.

Can I customize the filling of my Apple Hand Pies?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like raisins, nuts, or even caramel sauce to create unique flavors.

What are some good side dishes to serve with Apple Hand Pies?

Apple Hand Pies go well with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a scoop of yogurt for added creaminess.

How do I fix soggy pastry?

To prevent soggy pastry, ensure that any fruit filling is drained well before placing it in the dough and avoid adding extra liquids.

Final Thoughts

Apple Hand Pies are delightful treats that bring warmth and comfort to any gathering. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings and enjoy them at breakfast, brunch, or as dessert. Try this recipe today and experience the deliciousness of homemade apple hand pies!

SEO Information