These Apple Hand Pies are like little pockets of joy! Filled with sweet, gooey apple filling and wrapped in a flaky crust, they’re perfect for a quick treat.
They’re great for snacks or desserts, and they taste even better warm! I love taking a bite and feeling that warm apple goodness. Trust me, you won’t want to share! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith apples add a tartness, while Honeycrisp brings sweetness. You can mix them too for a balanced flavor. If apples aren’t available, try pears for a twist!
Sugars: Granulated sugar and brown sugar help the filling caramelize. If you’re reducing sugar, use a sugar substitute like Stevia or a natural sweetener like maple syrup.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices enhance the apple flavor. If you don’t have nutmeg, just use more cinnamon or a pumpkin spice mix instead. It’ll still be delicious!
Pie Crust: Store-bought crusts save time, but homemade is often tastier! Use butter for a flakier crust or substitute with a gluten-free version if needed.
How Do I Make the Perfect Pie Crust?
Making a pie crust can be tricky, but here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Ensure your butter is cold. This helps create a flaky texture.
- Don’t overwork the dough. Mix just until combined to keep it tender.
- Chill the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling it out. This makes it easier to work with and helps with the flakiness.
- If using store-bought dough, make sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out. It’s easier to manage.
Following these tips will help you achieve a great crust for those yummy hand pies! Enjoy your baking adventure!
Delicious Apple Hand Pies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crust:
- 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts or homemade pie dough
For Topping:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Granulated sugar, for sprinkling on top
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. You’ll need a little extra time for the pies to cool before you indulge. So, plan for about an hour from start to finish. Deliciousness awaits!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your hand pies bake evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Set it aside.
2. Make the Apple Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together your chopped apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Stir well until all the apples are coated. This will give your filling a delicious and rich flavor!
3. Prepare the Pie Crust:
Roll out your pie crust dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a round cutter or a cup that’s about 4-5 inches in diameter, cut out circles from the dough. You’ll need enough circles to make pairs.
4. Fill and Shape the Pies:
Take about 2 tablespoons of your apple filling and place it in the center of each dough circle, leaving some space around the edges. Then, gently fold each circle in half to form a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press the edges together firmly so the filling stays inside.
5. Bake the Pies:
Transfer your hand pies to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of each hand pie with the beaten egg, and then sprinkle a bit of granulated sugar over them for a nice touch of sweetness. Use a sharp knife to cut 1 or 2 small slits on the top of each pie to allow steam to escape.
6. Final Touches:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is beautifully golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes.
7. Enjoy!
Now that you’ve made these scrumptious apple hand pies, enjoy them warm! They’re perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or just on their own. Happy baking!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Apples?
Yes! You can substitute apples with other fruits like pears, berries, or peaches. Just adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you’re using.
Can I Freeze Apple Hand Pies?
Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked hand pies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
How Do I Keep the Hand Pies Crisp?
To keep the crust crisp, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, and store leftovers in a paper towel-lined container to absorb moisture. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.
What Should I Do if My Dough Is Sticky?
If your dough is sticky, sprinkle a bit of flour on your work surface and on the dough itself. If it’s too sticky to handle, refrigerate it for about 15-30 minutes to firm up the dough before rolling it out.
