These little Apple Hand Pies are like warm hugs in pastry form! Filled with sweet, spiced apples, they’re perfect for a snack or dessert.
Just imagine biting into a crispy crust with gooey apple goodness inside. I can never stop at one—good luck sharing these with friends! 🍏🥧
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tart Apples: Granny Smith apples are perfect for their tartness, balancing the sweetness well. If you can’t find them, you can use Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples for a sweet-tart combo.
Sugar: The mix of granulated and brown sugar gives great flavor. You can swap brown sugar with coconut sugar for a different taste, or use less granulated sugar for a lower sweetness.
Spices: Ground cinnamon and nutmeg are must-haves. Don’t skip them! If you want a hint of warmth, add a pinch of ground cloves. You can use pumpkin pie spice as a shortcut if you have it on hand.
Pie Crust: Store-bought crusts simplify things, but you can make your own for a heartier taste if you’re up for it! Try a whole wheat or gluten-free crust for more options.
How Do I Get the Perfect Seal on My Hand Pies?
Sealing your hand pies well is crucial! Here’s how to do it right:
- After placing the filling, fold the dough over carefully to avoid spilling. Press the edges together with your fingers.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges; this not only seals but also makes a pretty pattern!
- Don’t forget to cut slits on top to allow steam to escape—this keeps them from bursting in the oven.
Taking these steps ensures your filling stays perfectly inside the pie while baking, leaving you with a lovely treat every time!
Apple Hand Pies Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups peeled, cored, and finely chopped tart apples (such as Granny Smith)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp lemon juice
For the Crust:
- 1 package (2 sheets) refrigerated pie crusts, thawed
For Assembly:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes for prep and around 25 minutes for baking, making a total of about 55 minutes. It’s a simple and quick recipe that results in warm, flaky hand pies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Apple Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and lemon juice. Stir well until everything is combined, and then set this mixture aside.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
Next, roll out your thawed pie crust sheets on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cutter or a glass, about 4-5 inches in diameter, to cut out circles from the dough.
4. Assemble the Hand Pies:
Take approximately 2 tablespoons of the apple filling and place it in the center of each dough circle. Carefully fold the dough over to make a half-moon shape, and gently press the edges together.
5. Seal the Pies:
Use a fork to crimp the edges of the pies, which will seal in the delicious filling. Don’t forget to cut 2-3 small slits on top of each pie to allow steam to escape while baking.
6. Final Touches Before Baking:
Place the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar if you like a bit of crunch and sparkle.
7. Bake the Pies:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling out slightly.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re done, remove the pies from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. If desired, dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a touch of sweetness!
Enjoy your warm, flaky, and delicious homemade Apple Hand Pies! They are perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself! 🍏✨
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, you can also use Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples for a sweet-tart balance. Feel free to mix different types for added flavor!
What Can I Use Instead of Refrigerated Pie Crusts?
If you prefer homemade dough, you can make your own pie crust from scratch. Just be sure to chill it before rolling out. Alternatively, a whole wheat or gluten-free dough works well if you need substitutions!
How Can I Store Leftover Hand Pies?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Freeze These Hand Pies?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked hand pies! Just assemble them, then freeze on a baking sheet for a few hours before transferring to a zip-top bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
