There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked Apple Hand Pies wafting through your home. Imagine biting into a flaky pastry crust, with warm, spiced apple filling oozing out, making your taste buds do a happy dance. These delightful little pockets of joy are not just desserts; they are a celebration of comfort food at its finest. For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Irish Apple Cake recipe.
Reflecting on my childhood, I remember my grandma’s kitchen filled with laughter and the sweet scent of apples simmering on the stove. We would gather around the table for family pie-making days, where flour dusted our noses, and silly stories filled the air. Delectable Forbidden Apples These Apple Hand Pies are perfect for cozy fall afternoons or festive gatherings and promise to bring back those cherished memories with every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Apple Hand Pies are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers.
- The flavor is a delightful blend of sweet and spicy, sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
- Their golden-brown color and flaky crust make them visually irresistible, adding charm to any dessert table.
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to be served warm with ice cream or at room temperature as a snack.
Ingredients for Apple Hand Pies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating that perfectly flaky crust; ensure it’s fresh for the best results. Best Halloween Oreo Brownies.
- Unsalted Butter: Cold butter gives the crust its flakiness; don’t skimp on quality here.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the filling and adds a touch to the pastry; adjust based on apple sweetness.
- Cinnamon: A must-have spice that brings warmth and depth to your apple filling.
- Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work beautifully; choose firm apples for texture.
- Egg Wash (egg + water): This gives your hand pies that beautiful golden finish when baked.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Apple Hand Pies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing flour and cold butter in a large bowl until crumbly. Add in sugar and a pinch of salt before combining it with cold water until dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about an hour.
Step 2: Make the Filling
While the dough chills, peel and slice your apples into thin pieces. Mix them in a bowl with sugar, cinnamon, and a dash of lemon juice for brightness. Let this sit while you roll out the dough.
Step 3: Roll Out Dough
After chilling, roll out your dough on a floured surface until about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter (or glass) to cut circles from the dough—aim for about six inches in diameter.
Step 4: Assemble Hand Pies
Place a tablespoon of apple filling in the center of each circle. Fold over one side to create a half-moon shape and seal by crimping edges with a fork.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place assembled pies onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Brush each pie lightly with egg wash for that golden hue.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling at the seams. Allow cooling slightly before indulging!
Transfer to plates and enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serve them at room temperature as delightful snacks throughout the day! Halloween Cookies And Cream Cheesecake.
You Must Know
- These delightful apple hand pies are not just a treat for the taste buds; they create a cozy atmosphere in your kitchen.
- Perfect for sharing, these sweet little pockets of joy are a fun and simple way to impress family and friends with your baking skills.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve crispy, flaky crusts and perfectly cooked apples, start by preparing your filling first. While it cools, roll out your dough and cut it into circles. Assemble the pies before baking them until golden brown.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your apple hand pies! Swap out regular apples for tart Granny Smith or add in some cinnamon for extra flavor. Rice Krispie Treat Ghosts You can even mix in dried cranberries or nuts for a delightful twist on this classic treat.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover apple hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For reheating, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain that fresh-baked goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your apple hand pies turn out perfect every time, make sure to chill your dough before rolling it out.
- This prevents shrinkage while baking.
- Don’t overfill the pies; less is more when sealing them shut!
- Lastly, brush the tops with egg wash for that beautiful golden finish.
I still remember the first time I made these apple hand pies. My friends devoured them faster than I could say “homemade,” and I knew I’d struck gold with this recipe!
FAQs :
What are Apple Hand Pies?
Apple hand pies are delightful, portable desserts filled with sweet apple filling and encased in a flaky pastry crust. They are perfect for snacking or as dessert. These treats can be baked or fried, depending on your preference. Often seasoned with cinnamon and sugar, apple hand pies evoke the comforting flavors of fall and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Their convenient size makes them ideal for picnics, lunchboxes, or simply a cozy night in.
How do I make the crust for Apple Hand Pies?
To make the crust for apple hand pies, combine all-purpose flour, cold butter, salt, and a little sugar in a bowl. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough holds together. Chill it for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out into circles. This will yield a flaky and tender crust that perfectly complements the sweet apple filling.
What kind of apples are best for Apple Hand Pies?
When choosing apples for your hand pies, opt for varieties that balance sweetness and tartness. Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness, while Honeycrisp apples offer a sweet crunch. Mixing different types of apples enhances flavor complexity. Ensure the apples are firm so they hold their shape during baking. The right combination will create a delicious filling that pairs wonderfully with the buttery pastry.
Can I freeze Apple Hand Pies?
Yes, you can freeze apple hand pies! To freeze them, ensure they are completely cooled after baking. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring them to airtight containers or freezer bags. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven until warm and crispy for an easy treat anytime.
Conclusion for Apple Hand Pies :
Apple hand pies are a delightful dessert option that combines sweet apples with a flaky crust. They are easy to make and customizable with various apple types and spices. Whether baked or fried, these treats offer convenience without sacrificing flavor. Freezing them allows you to enjoy this delicious snack whenever you crave it. With their charming size and comforting taste, apple hand pies are sure to become a favorite in your home!
Apple Hand Pies
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 8 servings 1x
Description
Apple Hand Pies are a delightful treat, encasing sweet, spiced apple filling within a flaky, golden crust. Perfect for cozy gatherings or as an anytime snack, these portable desserts bring warmth and nostalgia to every bite. With a simple preparation method and customizable options, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser that evokes the comforting flavors of fall.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3 cups apples (peeled and thinly sliced; preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 egg + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour and cold butter until crumbly. Stir in sugar and salt, then add cold water until dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Make the Filling: Combine sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Set aside while rolling out the dough.
- Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll dough to 1/8 inch thick and cut into circles (about 6 inches in diameter).
- Assemble Hand Pies: Place a tablespoon of apple filling on each circle, fold over to create a half-moon shape, and seal edges by crimping with a fork.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place hand pies on parchment-lined baking sheets and brush tops with egg wash.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 hand pie (75g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
