Apple Hand Pies

If you’re a fan of comforting, nostalgic desserts, these Apple Hand Pies are the perfect treat for you! Enclosed in a buttery, flaky crust and filled with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples, these little pies bring the flavors of fall to your table any time of year. Whether you’re enjoying them as a sweet snack, a delightful dessert, or a cozy addition to a holiday spread, these hand pies are sure to become a family favorite. With a few simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll be making these irresistible apple hand pies in no time.

Mini Apple Hand Pies

Apple hand pies are the ultimate portable dessert—sweet, warm, and bursting with flavor. Unlike a traditional apple pie that requires slicing and serving, these individual pies are wrapped in their own flaky crust, making them perfect for snacking on the go, packing in lunchboxes, or serving at parties. Their handheld size is a great way to enjoy pie without committing to a full slice.

This recipe celebrates classic apple pie flavors: juicy apples, a touch of cinnamon, and just the right amount of sweetness. Granny Smith apples bring a pleasant tartness, balanced by warm spices and a hint of vanilla. The golden crust adds a buttery crunch to each bite, creating a satisfying texture.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is approachable and customizable. Follow along to make these delightful treats, and don’t be surprised if they disappear as quickly as you bake them!

Why You’ll Love These Apple Hand Pies

• Fresh apples are cooked to perfection with sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice, creating a balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

• Store-bought pie dough saves time, but you can also make your own for an extra homemade touch.

• Hand pies are perfect for on-the-go snacks or dessert tables.

• Experiment with different apple varieties, spices, or even fillings like pears or berries for variety.

• The simple steps make this recipe accessible to bakers of all levels.

Ingredients for Apple Hand Pies and Substitutions

Here’s what makes these apple hand pies so special:

For the filling:

• Apples: Granny Smith apples are a classic choice for their tartness, but feel free to use sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. A mix of apples adds depth to the flavor.

• Granulated sugar and brown sugar: The combination of these sugars provides the perfect balance of sweetness and caramel notes.

• Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth, making the filling taste like a cozy autumn day.

• Cornstarch: Ensures the filling thickens as it cooks, preventing it from becoming runny.

• Lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and prevents the apples from browning.

• Vanilla extract: Optional, but it adds a hint of sweetness and aroma that elevates the filling.

• Salt: A tiny pinch enhances the other flavors.

For the crust:

• Pie dough: Store-bought dough is convenient and reliable, but homemade dough provides an extra flaky and buttery touch.

• Egg wash: A mix of egg and milk gives the crust a beautiful golden color.

• Coarse sugar (optional): Sprinkling it on top adds a delightful crunch and sweetness.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Apple Hand Pies

1. Prepare the filling: Peel, core, and dice the apples into small, even pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and fit nicely inside the hand pies. In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5–7 minutes, or until the apples soften and the mixture thickens. Remove the filling from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Cooling is essential to prevent the filling from making the crust soggy.

2. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

3. Roll out the dough: Roll out the pie dough on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cutter or a small bowl to cut out circles about 4–5 inches in diameter. Re-roll the scraps as needed to make more circles.

4. Assemble the hand pies: Place a spoonful of the cooled apple filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this may cause the pies to burst during baking. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together gently with your fingers, then crimp them with a fork to seal.

5. Apply the egg wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush the egg wash over the tops of the hand pies to give them a glossy, golden finish. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar on top for added texture and sweetness.

6. Bake the hand pies: Arrange the pies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. Use a small knife to cut a couple of slits on the top of each pie to allow steam to escape. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.

7. Cool and serve: Allow the hand pies to cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re delicious warm or at room temperature, and perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Recipe Notes and Extra Tips

• Choose the right apples: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples to balance the flavors. Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji work well. Peel and dice them uniformly for even cooking.

• Don’t overfill the pies: While it’s tempting to pack them with as much filling as possible, overfilling can cause leaks. Aim for 1-2 tablespoons of filling per hand pie to keep the crust sealed and tidy.

• Vent the tops: Cut small slits or use a fork to poke holes in the top of each pie. This allows steam to escape and prevents the pies from bursting.

• Use an egg wash for a golden crust: Brush the tops with a mixture of beaten egg and milk or water before baking. This gives the pies a beautiful, golden-brown sheen. Sprinkle with coarse sugar for extra sparkle and crunch.

• Make-ahead option: Prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Other Delicious Variations of Apple Hand Pies

• Caramel Apple Hand Pies: Add a spoonful of caramel sauce to the filling for a decadent touch.

• Cranberry Apple Pies: Mix dried cranberries into the filling for a tart and festive flavor.

• Mini Turnovers: Use smaller dough circles to create bite-sized apple pies—great for parties or snacks.

How to Serve

Apple hand pies are best enjoyed slightly warm. Serve them as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle them with caramel or sprinkle with powdered sugar. They’re also delightful on their own as a mid-day snack or a sweet addition to breakfast. Perfect for picnics, holiday gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these hand pies will quickly become a favorite treat.

How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat the Hand Pies

Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8 -10 minutes to restore their crispness. You can also microwave them for about 20 seconds, though the crust may soften slightly. For longer storage, freeze the baked hand pies in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 – 20 minutes.

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