There’s something magical about the scent of warm apple hand pies wafting through the house, isn’t there? Picture this: flakey pastry cradling tender, spiced apples, golden brown and glistening with a sweet glaze. homemade applesauce to complement your pies The moment you bite into one, it’s as if your taste buds are attending a joyous celebration of flavors and textures. apple whole grain bowl for a hearty option.
I remember the first time I made these delightful treats for a family gathering. My cousin exclaimed that they tasted like a hug from Grandma! Whether it’s a chilly autumn afternoon or a festive holiday dinner, apple hand pies bring warmth and smiles to every occasion. delicious fall treats like pumpkin cookies
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Apple hand pies are incredibly easy to make, allowing even novice bakers to shine
- Their irresistible flavor profile combines sweet and tart notes for an unforgettable treat
- Visually stunning, they can be presented in various ways to impress your guests
- Perfect for any occasion, these pies are versatile enough to be served warm or at room temperature
I remember my friends’ faces lighting up when I brought a batch of these hand pies to our last picnic; they disappeared faster than you can say “apple pie”!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: This is your base for the dough; use high-quality flour for best results.
- Unsalted Butter: Chilled and cubed butter ensures a flaky crust—don’t skip chilling it!
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and filling; adjust according to your taste.
- Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors in your pies; don’t underestimate its power!
- Cold Water: This helps bring the dough together without melting the butter.
- Apples: Choose tart varieties like Granny Smith for a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Cinnamon: This spice is essential for that comforting apple pie flavor; sprinkle generously!
- Lemon Juice: A splash brightens the apple filling and prevents browning.
- Egg Wash (Egg + Water): Brush this on before baking for that beautiful golden finish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this chocolate cake recipe recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Dough: Start by whisking together flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Cut in chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs; it should feel like sand between your fingers.
Add Cold Water: Gradually add cold water, mixing until just combined. Form the dough into a ball. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—this will help it relax!
Prepare the Filling: While the dough chills, peel and slice your apples into thin wedges. Toss them with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and let them sit so they release their juices—trust me, this step is essential!
Roll Out the Dough: Once chilled, divide your dough into two parts. Roll out one half on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick. Use a round cutter or glass to cut circles—about 4-5 inches wide works perfectly.
Add Filling & Seal Pies: Place spoonfuls of apple filling on one half of each circle. Fold over and press edges with a fork or pinch to seal tightly—this keeps all that deliciousness inside!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place hand pies on parchment-lined baking sheets; brush with egg wash for that golden glow! Bake for 20-25 minutes until they’re beautifully puffed up and golden brown.
Now you’ve got yourself some scrumptious apple hand pies ready to disappear faster than leftovers at Thanksgiving! Serve them warm with ice cream or at room temperature with coffee—the choice is yours! spooky Halloween desserts for your party. For more inspiration, check out this Irish Apple Cake recipe recipe.
Enjoy sharing these little pockets of joy with friends and family or keep them all for yourself (no judgment here!).
You Must Know
- Crafting the perfect Apple Hand Pies is about balance—sweet, tart, flaky, and warm
- Using fresh apples enhances flavor, while a pinch of cinnamon can elevate the taste
- Always let them cool slightly before biting; trust me, your tongue will thank you!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Roll out dough first, then prepare the apple filling while the dough chills for perfect flakiness.
Add Your Touch
Swap in pears or peaches for a fruity twist. Consider adding nuts or raisins for texture and extra flavor to personalize your pies.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat in a toaster oven for optimal crispness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To avoid soggy bottoms, bake on a preheated baking sheet
- Ensure your apple filling is well-seasoned with cinnamon and sugar for balanced sweetness
- Brush with egg wash for that golden shine everyone loves!
Every time I make Apple Hand Pies, my kitchen fills with nostalgia as my kids rush in, drawn by the heavenly aroma. Their smiles when they take that first bite are priceless!
FAQ
What type of apples are best for Apple Hand Pies?
Use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for balance.
Can I freeze Apple Hand Pies?
Yes, freeze unbaked pies on a tray; then transfer to a bag for later baking.
How do I know when my hand pies are done?
Look for a golden brown color on the crust and bubbling filling peeking out!
Apple Hand Pies
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
If you’re craving the comforting flavors of autumn, these delightful apple hand pies are the perfect treat. Encased in a flaky crust and filled with sweet, spiced apples, they are a celebration of taste and texture. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or at room temperature for gatherings, these hand pies are sure to bring smiles to your table. Easy to make and impressive in presentation, they’re an ideal dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 6–8 tbsp cold water
- 3 cups tart apples (like Granny Smith), peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 egg + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in chilled butter until crumbly. Gradually add cold water until combined. Form into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Toss apple slices with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice; let sit to release juices.
- Divide dough in half. Roll out one half on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out circles (4-5 inches wide).
- Place spoonfuls of filling on half of each circle. Fold over and seal edges with a fork.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange on parchment-lined baking sheets, brush with egg wash, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 hand pie (100g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
