Easy Apple Hand Pies for Cozy Fall Treats

Nothing captures the cozy, heartwarming feeling of fall quite like homemade Apple Hand Pies. These deliciously flaky treats are packed with a warm cinnamon apple filling that melts in your mouth with every bite. Whether you’re looking for a snack to enjoy by the fire or a sweet addition to your autumn gatherings, Apple Hand Pies are easy to make and full of comforting flavors that bring the season to life.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: With straightforward steps and basic ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Perfect Fall Flavor: The cinnamon-spiced apple filling offers classic autumn warmth in every bite.
• Portable and Practical: These hand pies are individually sized, making them easy to enjoy on the go or at a party.
• Flaky and Buttery Crust: A homemade crust that’s crisp on the outside and tender inside adds texture to every mouthful.
• Customizable Filling: You can easily tweak the filling to suit your personal taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s beauty in simplicity with this Apple Hand Pies recipe. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma that makes these pies unforgettable.

• Apples: Tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal for a bright, fresh filling.
• Cinnamon: Adds warm, spicy notes that complement the apples perfectly.
• Brown Sugar: Provides a rich sweetness and caramel undertone to the filling.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base for the flaky crust, giving structure and a tender bite.
• Cold Butter: Essential for creating the pie crust’s signature flaky texture.
• Egg: Used as an egg wash to give the pies a golden, glossy finish.
• Lemon Juice: Balances the sweetness with a touch of acidity and keeps apples from browning.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors throughout the crust and filling.

Variations for Apple Hand Pies

One of the best things about Apple Hand Pies is how easy they are to customize. Feel free to mix up the filling or crust to suit your preferences, dietary needs, or whatever you have on hand.

• Gluten-Free Crust: Swap in a gluten-free flour blend to make these pies suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
• Maple Syrup Sweetener: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a deeper, richer sweetness.
• Spice Mix: Add nutmeg, cloves, or allspice to your cinnamon for an extra layer of warming spices.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and replace the egg wash with almond milk or aquafaba.
• Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for a delightful crunch.

How to Make Apple Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by peeling, coring, and dicing your apples into small, even pieces. Toss them with cinnamon, brown sugar, a splash of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt to create that classic warm, spiced apple flavor.

Step 2: Make the Pie Dough

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, just until the dough comes together. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Roll Out and Cut Dough Circles

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a round cutter or glass, cut out circles roughly four to five inches wide for individual pies.

Step 4: Fill and Seal

Place a spoonful of the apple mixture in the center of each dough circle. Brush the edges with a little water, fold over to create a half-moon shape, and press firmly with a fork to seal.

Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake

Brush each pie with beaten egg to achieve a golden sheen as they bake. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Hand Pies

• Keep Ingredients Cold: Cold butter and water help create a flaky crust by preventing the fat from melting prematurely.
• Don’t Overfill: Use a moderate amount of filling to avoid pies bursting during baking.
• Vent the Pies: Make small slits in the crust to allow steam to escape and keep the crust crisp.
• Rest the Dough: Chilling the dough before rolling makes it easier to handle and less sticky.
• Uniform Slices: Cutting apples into uniform pieces ensures even cooking and consistent texture.

How to Serve Apple Hand Pies

Garnishes

Serve your Apple Hand Pies with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an irresistible finishing touch that adds sweetness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the warm spices and flaky pastry, making for a dessert that’s cozy and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the pies in a rustic basket lined with a colorful napkin, or stack them on a wooden platter with cinnamon sticks and fresh apple slices for an inviting fall-themed presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Apple Hand Pies keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerated for up to five days, maintaining their flaky texture and flavor.

Freezing

To enjoy later, freeze unbaked hand pies on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

Warm leftover pies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to revive the crust’s flakiness and heat the filling evenly.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Absolutely! Pears, peaches, or berries work wonderfully in hand pies and can be used individually or mixed to create your favorite flavor combination.

Is it necessary to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother filling texture, but if you prefer a rustic feel and added fiber, leaving the peel on is perfectly fine.

How can I make the pies dairy-free?

Simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy milk for the egg wash or skip the wash entirely.

What is the best type of apple to use?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or balanced sweet-tart types such as Honeycrisp offer the best texture and flavor for baking in hand pies.

Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Yes! Dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to two days or frozen for longer storage, making it easy to assemble fresh pies when you’re ready.

Final Thoughts

Apple Hand Pies are a quintessential fall treat that brings warmth and comfort to any day. Their easy preparation, delightful flavor, and charming presentation make them a recipe you’ll want to keep in your baking arsenal. Cozy up with these flaky, cinnamon-spiced goodies and savor the season in every bite.

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