Apple Hand Pies are the ultimate comfort food, especially when filled with warm, cinnamon-spiced apples. These delightful pastries encapsulate the essence of fall, making them a perfect dessert for gatherings or a sweet afternoon snack. Their flaky crust and tender filling create a balance of textures that is simply irresistible. Let’s dive into how to create these delicious hand pies that are sure to impress family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Hand Pie Recipe

There are countless reasons to adore this Apple Hand Pie recipe. First, they are incredibly easy to make with pre-made pie crusts, making them perfect for quick dessert cravings. Second, they are versatile; you can fill them with not only apples but also other fruits, transforming them into delightful apple turnovers or mini apple pies. Third, they are baked to golden perfection, ensuring a crispy exterior that perfectly complements the warm filling. Fourth, they are great for meal prep; you can freeze them and bake them fresh whenever you want. Fifth, these sweet apple hand pies can cater to different dietary needs, including gluten-free apple hand pies. Finally, they are an ideal way to use up the best apples for hand pies, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, making them a seasonal favorite!

Ingredients for Apple Hand Pies

Gather these items:

4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) (peeled, cored, diced)
3 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 pinch salt
2 pre-made pie crusts (or homemade)
1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
2 tbsp coarse sugar (optional, for topping)

How to Make Apple Hand Pies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Combine the apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl. This mixture is the delicious filling that will make your apple pastries irresistible.
Step 2: Cut circles from the dough and chill them for about 15 minutes to make them easier to handle.
Step 3: Fill each dough circle with a spoonful of the apple filling, fold over, and crimp the edges to seal. This step is crucial for ensuring your baked apple hand pies don’t leak filling during baking.
Step 4: Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar for added sweetness and texture.
Step 5: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F until golden brown, about 25-30 minutes.
Step 6: Allow the hand pies to cool for 10 minutes before serving.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Apple Hand Pies

Keep these in mind:

Use a mixture of apples for a more complex flavor profile.
Don’t overfill the pies to prevent bursting.
Chilling the dough helps to achieve a flaky crust.
Consider adding a touch of vanilla or caramel to the filling for a unique twist.
These homemade apple hand pies are best enjoyed warm, but they can be stored in an airtight container.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Hand Pies

These delightful pastries can be served in various ways:

Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce to enhance the flavor.
Present them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Hand Pies

To store your apple hand pies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them before baking. After baking, they can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Hand Pies

What’s the secret to perfect Apple Hand Pies?

The secret lies in the dough and the filling. Use a high-quality pie crust and balance the sweetness of the apples with spices. Make sure to crimp the edges well to seal in the deliciousness!

Can I make Apple Hand Pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pies ahead of time. Just freeze them unbaked and pop them in the oven when you are ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Apple Hand Pies?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure you don’t overfill the pies, which can cause them to burst. Also, make sure to chill the dough before rolling out to ensure a flaky texture.

Variations of Apple Hand Pies You Can Try

Here are some creative twists you can experiment with:

Try using different fruits like pears or peaches for a fruity mix.
Substitute the regular pie crust with a gluten-free option for those with dietary restrictions.
Experiment with adding nuts or raisins to the filling for added texture and flavor.
For a savory version, consider adding cheese or caramelized onions to the apple filling, which can be a delightful surprise!

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For more delicious recipes, check out our Apple Pie recipe, or try making Easy Cinnamon Rolls for a sweet breakfast treat. You can also explore Cinnamon Orange Jam Linzer Cookies for a delightful dessert option.