Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies are a delightful treat that brings the classic flavors of apple pie into a convenient handheld version. These tasty pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert and are sure to impress at any gathering. With a flaky crust and a sweet apple filling, Apple Hand Pies offer a comforting and delicious experience that’s hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these hand pies can be whipped up in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet apples and warm spices creates a mouthwatering filling that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even for breakfast—these hand pies fit any occasion.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of apples or add nuts and raisins for an extra twist.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, these hand pies are ideal for parties or family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to streamline the process. Having everything ready will help you create these delicious Apple Hand Pies effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out your dough evenly, ensuring the perfect crust.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface to bake your pies evenly without burning.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining your apple filling ingredients quickly and mess-free.

Ingredients

To make your delightful Apple Hand Pies, you will need the following ingredients:

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 Filling

1. Peel and core the apples. Cut them into small pieces.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference), cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well until all apples are coated.
3. Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the apple mixture and cook for 3 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. On a lightly floured surface, roll out your homemade pie crust or biscuit dough to about 1/8 inch thick.
2. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or glass; each circle should be around 4–5 inches in diameter.

Step 3: Fill and Seal the Hand Pies

1. Place a spoonful of apple filling onto one half of each circle.
2. Fold the other half over to create a pocket. Press edges together firmly to seal.
3. Use a fork to crimp edges if desired; this adds an attractive touch while ensuring they stay sealed during baking.

Step 4: Bake Your Pies

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place prepared hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for about 15–20 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy these wonderful Apple Hand Pies fresh out of the oven or allow them to cool before serving!

How to Serve Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies are versatile treats that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these delightful pastries can be paired with various accompaniments to enhance their flavor.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top for a light, creamy contrast that complements the sweetness of the apples.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve warm Apple Hand Pies with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a classic dessert pairing that’s hard to resist.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of rich caramel sauce brings an extra touch of sweetness and decadence, making these pies even more indulgent.

Fresh Fruit Salad

• Pair your hand pies with a refreshing fruit salad for a balanced meal that adds brightness and freshness to the dish.

Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these pies with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. The warmth of the beverage enhances the flavors of the filling.

How to Perfect Apple Hand Pies

Getting your Apple Hand Pies just right can take some practice. Here are some tips to ensure that they turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Apples: Opt for crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith or Macoun for the best flavor and texture in your filling.
• Chill Your Dough: Before rolling out your pie crust or biscuit dough, chill it in the refrigerator. This helps achieve flakiness when baked.
• Don’t Overfill: Be mindful not to overfill your hand pies; this can cause them to burst while cooking. A tablespoon of filling is usually enough.
• Seal Properly: Ensure you seal the edges well by crimping with a fork or pinching tightly. This prevents any leakage during cooking.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your pies while frying or baking. Cook until golden brown but avoid burning them for optimal flavor.
• Sprinkle Sugar on Top: Before baking, sprinkle a little sugar on top for added sweetness and crunch once cooked.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies pair well with several side dishes that can elevate your meal experience. Consider these options when serving:

1. Vanilla Yogurt: A smooth and tangy yogurt adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the pies.
2. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda that complement the sweet apple filling without overpowering it.
3. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips dusted with cinnamon sugar offer a fun texture contrast while echoing the flavors in the hand pies.
4. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed in vinaigrette provides freshness and cuts through the richness of the pastry.
5. Hot Chocolate: This warming drink is perfect during colder months, providing a cozy pairing with your hand pies.
6. Nut Butter Dip: Serve almond or peanut butter as a dip; it adds protein and a nutty flavor that pairs well with apples.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Hand Pies can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of.

• Boldly overlook chilling the dough: Not chilling your pie crust or biscuit dough can lead to a tough texture. Always chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
• Boldly skip the apple prep: Failing to properly peel and slice apples can result in uneven cooking. Ensure apples are thinly sliced for even filling and flavor.
• Boldly ignore seasoning: Neglecting spices like cinnamon and nutmeg will make your hand pies taste bland. Use the right amount of spices to enhance the apple flavors.
• Boldly overfill your pies: Overstuffing can cause leaks during cooking. Fill each pie with just enough filling, leaving space for sealing.
• Boldly rush the sealing process: Not sealing edges properly can lead to filling escaping. Use a fork or crimp edges well to prevent this.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Apple Hand Pies

• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 30 seconds, checking if warm; add more time as needed.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Hand Pies.

How do I ensure my Apple Hand Pies are crispy?

To achieve crispiness, avoid overfilling and ensure your dough is chilled. Baking at the right temperature also helps!

Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Macoun are great choices, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji.

What should I serve with Apple Hand Pies?

Apple Hand Pies pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. You could also serve them with caramel sauce for extra sweetness!

How long do Apple Hand Pies take to make?

From prep to finish, Apple Hand Pies take about 33 minutes, making them a quick treat!

Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them early and store them in the fridge or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

Apple Hand Pies are versatile treats perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Their delightful combination of flaky crust and sweet apple filling makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize with different fruits or spices according to your preference!