Ingredients for Fried Apple Hand Pies
To create these delightful fried apple hand pies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 package of pre-made pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 2 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)
Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe is simple and can be completed in just a few steps. Follow along to create these delicious fried apple hand pies!
Preparing the Apple Filling
- Peel and Chop the Apples: Start by peeling your apples. Remove the core and cut them into small, bite-sized pieces. This ensures that they cook evenly and fit nicely inside the hand pies.
- Add Sugar and Spices: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped apples with granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss everything together until the apples are well-coated. The lemon juice adds a nice tang and helps to prevent the apples from browning.
- Let the Mixture Sit: Allow the apple mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes. This will help the apples release some of their juices, making the filling even more delicious.
Preparing the Pie Crusts
- Roll Out the Pie Crusts: On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pre-made pie crusts to ensure they are smooth and thin. If you prefer, you can also use a rolling pin to flatten them slightly.
- Cut the Crusts: Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out circles from the rolled-out crust. Each circle should be about 4-5 inches in diameter. You should get around 8-10 circles from the two crusts.
Assembling the Hand Pies
Now that you have your filling and crusts ready, it’s time to assemble the hand pies!
- Fill the Crusts: Take a circle of pie crust and place about 1-2 tablespoons of the apple filling in the center. Be careful not to overfill, as it can make sealing the pies difficult.
- Seal the Edges: Moisten the edge of the pie crust with a little water to help seal it. Fold the crust in half over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra secure seal and a decorative touch.
- Repeat: Continue this process with the remaining pie crusts and filling until you have assembled all of your hand pies.
Frying the Hand Pies
Frying is what makes these hand pies extra special and gives them that delightful crispy exterior.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour enough oil to cover the bottom by about an inch. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small piece of dough into it; if it sizzles, it’s ready!
- Fry the Hand Pies: Carefully place a few hand pies in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to turn them over halfway through cooking.
- Drain Excess Oil: Once they are golden brown, remove the hand pies from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil.
Making the Egg Wash
For an extra glossy finish, you can brush your hand pies with an egg wash before frying them.
- Beat the Egg: In a small bowl, beat the egg until it’s well mixed.
- Brush the Crusts: Before sealing the hand pies, brush the edges with the egg wash. This will help create a beautiful golden color once fried.
Serving Suggestions
Your fried apple hand pies are now ready to be enjoyed! Here are some serving suggestions to make them even more delightful:
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a sweet touch and makes them visually appealing.
- Serve with Ice Cream: Pair your warm hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combination.
- Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: For an indulgent treat, drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving.
- Enjoy with Coffee or Tea: These hand pies make a perfect afternoon snack alongside your favorite hot beverage.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, here’s how you can store and reheat them:
- Room Temperature: Allow the hand pies to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be aware that the crust may lose some of its crispness.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the uncooked hand pies. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the frying time.
Tips for Perfect Fried Apple Hand Pies
To ensure your fried apple hand pies turn out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Use Chilled Crust: If possible, keep your pie crusts chilled until you’re ready to use them. This helps to make the crust flaky and tender.
- Mix and Match Apples: Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties or even mix them for a more complex flavor profile.
- Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: The egg wash not only gives a beautiful color but also helps to seal the edges of the pie crust.
- Keep the Oil at the Right Temperature: If the oil is too hot, the outside will cook too quickly while the inside remains raw. If it’s too cool, the crust will absorb more oil and become greasy.
Variations to Try
Once you master the basic fried apple hand pie recipe, consider trying these fun variations:
- Cherry Hand Pies: Swap out the apples for fresh or frozen cherries for a tart and sweet alternative.
- Mixed Berry Hand Pies: Use a blend of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful and fruity twist.
- Spiced Hand Pies: Add nutmeg or ginger to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
- Chocolate Chip Hand Pies: Mix in some chocolate chips with your apple filling for a delicious chocolatey surprise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions and answers about making fried apple hand pies:
- Can I bake these hand pies instead of frying them? Yes! You can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with egg wash before baking for a nice finish.
- How do I know when the hand pies are done frying? They should be golden brown on both sides. You can also cut one open to check that the filling is bubbling and the apples are tender.
- Can I use homemade pie crust? Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade pie crust recipe, feel free to use it instead of store-bought.
Serving Suggestions
Fried apple hand pies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your dessert experience with these serving suggestions:
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a classic combination.
- Drizzled with Caramel: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the top adds a rich sweetness that pairs beautifully with the apples.
- Whipped Cream: Top your hand pies with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy finish.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: A simple dusting of powdered sugar gives your hand pies a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Ideas
Consider these beverage pairings to complement your fried apple hand pies:
- Cider: A glass of sparkling apple cider or hot spiced cider enhances the apple flavor.
- Tea: Pair with a warm cup of chai or cinnamon tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Coffee: A strong cup of coffee balances the sweetness of the hand pies perfectly.
Storing Your Ingredients
To keep your ingredients fresh and ready for your next baking session, follow these storage tips:
- Apples: Store apples in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness.
- Pie Crust: If using store-bought crust, keep it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Homemade crust can be stored in the fridge or freezer.
- Spices: Keep spices like cinnamon and nutmeg in a cool, dry place to preserve their flavor.
Final Touches
Before serving, consider adding some extra flair to your fried apple hand pies:
- Garnish: Fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and freshness.
- Flavor Infusion: Experiment with flavoring your frying oil with a hint of vanilla or cinnamon for an aromatic twist.
Variations to Try
Get creative with your fried apple hand pies by trying out these delicious variations:
- Berry Apple Mix: Add a handful of fresh or frozen berries to the apple filling for a burst of color and flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the filling for added texture.
- Spiced Pear Filling: Substitute half of the apples with ripe pears for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: Sweeten the filling with maple syrup for a rich and distinctive taste.
Essential Tools
Gather these essential tools to make your fried apple hand pies a breeze:
- Rolling Pin: A good quality rolling pin is crucial for rolling out your dough evenly.
- Cutting Board: Use a sturdy cutting board to prepare your crust and fillings.
- Pastry Cutter: If you’re making homemade crust, a pastry cutter can help achieve a flaky texture.
- Frying Pan: A deep frying pan or Dutch oven is ideal for frying your hand pies evenly.
- Slotted Spoon: Use a slotted spoon to safely remove the hand pies from hot oil.
Tips for Perfect Hand Pies
Follow these tips to ensure your fried apple hand pies turn out perfectly every time:
- Chill Your Dough: If using homemade dough, chill it for at least 30 minutes before rolling to make it easier to work with.
- Sealing the Edges: Be sure to seal the edges well to prevent any filling from leaking out during frying.
- Temperature Control: Keep the oil temperature consistent; too hot can burn the crust, while too cool can result in greasy pies.
Conclusion
In summary, fried apple hand pies are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that brings the comforting flavors of apples and spices into a portable dessert. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a crispy, sweet indulgence that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether enjoyed fresh out of the fryer or at room temperature, these hand pies are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family with their deliciousness.
Fried Apple Hand Pie Recipe: Quick and Delicious Treats