Apple Hand Pies

Introduction

Delicious Apple Hand Pies

Apple hand pies are the perfect portable dessert that packs all the comforting flavors of classic apple pie into small, easy-to-hold treats. Flaky, golden crust on the outside and a warm, sweet apple filling on the inside make these a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing them for a lunchbox surprise, a holiday feast, or just for a cozy afternoon snack, these hand pies hit the spot every time. The recipe strikes a delightful balance between simplicity and flavor, ensuring that even beginners can execute these pies perfectly.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

What You Need

• Pie crust – store-bought or homemade
• Apples – peeled and finely chopped
• Sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Lemon juice
• Cornstarch
• Egg – for egg wash
• Water
• Optional granulated sugar – for sprinkling on top

Prep Time

Quick Preparation

The preparation for apple hand pies is straightforward and doesn’t take much time. From mixing the filling to assembling the pies, the process is designed to ensure a hassle-free experience without compromising on taste and texture. Slice and dice the apples, mix with a handful of simple pantry ingredients, and voila, you’re ready to stuff, seal, and bake!

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Quick and Efficient Baking

Cook time for these irresistible apple hand pies is approximately 18–22 minutes. In total, including prep work, expect the recipe to take about 40–45 minutes from start to finish. The recipe makes several servings, making it perfect for sharing with family, friends, or even as a treat for yourself over several days.

With only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, these apple hand pies deliver maximum comforts of indulgence with a homemade touch—perfect for every apple lover.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1 – Make the Pie Crust

1. In a food processor, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Pulse a couple of times to mix.
2. Add cold chunks of butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs (about 15 to 20 pulses).
3. While pulsing, drizzle ice-cold water into the mixture. Stop pulsing once the dough just begins to come together.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and divide it in half. Shape each half into a disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour or up to two days.

Step 2 – Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces.
2. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine chopped apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir well and cook over medium heat for 7-10 minutes until apples are soft and the mixture thickens.
3. Remove the pan from heat and let the apple filling cool completely.

Step 3 – Roll the Dough

1. Take one dough disc out of the refrigerator and place it on a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a large sheet, about 1/8-inch thick.
2. Use a round or square cookie cutter (around 3.5 to 4 inches in diameter) to cut out shapes for the hand pies.
3. Re-roll the scraps to cut more shapes.
4. Repeat the rolling and cutting process with the second dough disc.

Step 4 – Assemble the Hand Pies

1. Place half of the cut dough shapes onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Scoop about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the cooled apple filling in the center of each shape, leaving about 1/4-inch border around the edges.
3. Cover each filled shape with a second dough piece. Line up the edges, then use a fork to press and seal the edges together.
4. Refrigerate the assembled hand pies for 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 5 – Bake the Hand Pies

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Take the chilled hand pies out of the refrigerator.
3. Brush the tops with a beaten egg wash and sprinkle sugar on top for a decorative touch.
4. Use a small knife to make two small slits on the tops of each pie to allow steam to escape during baking.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the hand pies turn golden brown.

Step 6 – Cool and Serve

1. Remove the baked hand pies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
2. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Serve warm or at room temperature. You can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Notes

Note 1 – Make-Ahead Instructions

The pie dough can be made up to 2 days in advance and kept refrigerated. It can also be frozen for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

Note 2 – Storage

The baked apple hand pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes for a fresher taste.

Note 3 – Customizations

You can experiment with other fruit fillings if desired, such as pear or peach, following similar steps for preparation.

Note 4 – Using Pre-Made Dough

If short on time, you can use store-bought pie crust instead of making your own dough. Follow the same steps for rolling, cutting, and baking.

Note 5 – Freezing Option

Unbaked hand pies can be frozen on a baking sheet until firm, then transferred to a freezer bag or container. Bake them directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
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Cook Techniques

Preparing the Puff Pastry

Thaw the puff pastry sheets according to the package instructions. Ensure they are not too frozen when rolling out or too soft to handle. Use a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking.

Creating the Apple Filling

Dice the apples into small, even pieces to allow for faster cooking. Cook the apples, sugar, spices, and lemon juice on medium heat until softened and gently caramelized. Let the filling cool completely before using.

Shaping the Hand Pies

Cut puff pastry sheets into neat squares or rectangles using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Add a small amount of cooled apple filling to the center of each piece and avoid overfilling.

Sealing the Pies

Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg to help seal. Fold the pastry over the filling and press the edges together. Use a fork to crimp the edges and seal securely to avoid leakage during baking.

Egg Wash for Perfect Golden Outside

Brush the tops of the assembled pies with egg wash to create a golden, shiny, and crisp exterior.

Poking Holes for Ventilation

Use a fork or sharp knife to create tiny vent holes on top of each hand pie to release steam during baking.

Baking the Hand Pies

Bake the hand pies in a preheated oven at the specified temperature until golden and puffed up, ensuring even cooking and flaky layers.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pastry for this recipe?

Yes, you can use homemade puff pastry or even pie dough as an alternative. However, the texture will vary, and puff pastry is recommended for its flakiness.

Can the filling be made ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the apple filling up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Make sure it is completely cooled before assembling the hand pies.

Can I freeze the assembled hand pies?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked, assembled hand pies. Layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container. When ready to bake, you can bake directly from frozen, though you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I reheat baked hand pies?

You can reheat baked hand pies in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use an air fryer for a quick reheat.

What are the best apples to use for the filling?

Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness and ability to hold shape during cooking. However, you can also use other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter flavor.

What if the filling leaks during baking?

Ensure the edges are properly sealed and crimped before baking, and avoid overfilling the pies. A little leakage is normal and won’t affect the flavor.

Can I use store-bought apple pie filling?

Yes, store-bought apple pie filling can be used if you’re short on time. However, freshly made filling is recommended for the best flavor.

Why does the dough become too soft to handle?

If the puff pastry becomes too soft, it’s likely over-thawed or has been handled too much. Chill it in the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm it up before continuing.

Conclusion

The Apple Hand Pies are a delightful treat that combines the perfect balance of fruity sweetness wrapped in a golden, flaky crust. These hand pies are easy to make, portable, and a crowd-pleaser, making them an excellent dessert or snack for any occasion. With their classic flavors and comforting texture, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone in the family.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Blueberry Hand Pies

Try swapping apples for fresh or frozen blueberries to create a burst of berry flavor in each bite.

Peach and Cinnamon Hand Pies

Combine diced peaches with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm, fruity variation.

Cherry Hand Pies

Use tart cherries as a filling to create a tangy, sweet treat.

Mixed Berry Hand Pies

Blend strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a rich, colorful fruit combination.

Chocolate and Banana Hand Pies

For a dessert twist, combine melted chocolate and slices of banana for a gooey, indulgent filling.

Caramel Apple Pies

Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the apple filling before sealing the pies for a decadent flavor boost.

Savory Hand Pies

Turn this recipe savory by replacing the apple filling with a mix of spinach, cheese, and herbs.

Cream Cheese and Strawberry Hand Pies

Layer some cream cheese with strawberry filling for a sweet and tangy combination.

Seasonal Pumpkin Hand Pies

Celebrate fall by using a spiced pumpkin filling for a seasonal twist.