Apple Hand Pies

Flaky, golden pastry filled with warm, spiced apple filling—Apple Hand Pies are a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy. Perfect for snacking, bake sales, or holiday dessert tables, these hand pies offer a portable way to enjoy the flavors of fall. With their irresistible aroma and sweet filling, they quickly become a favorite at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg enhances the natural sweetness of the apples.
• Versatile Treat: These hand pies can be enjoyed warm or cold, making them suitable for any occasion.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to add raisins or chopped pecans for an extra touch of flavor and texture.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 8–10 hand pies in one batch, they’re great for parties or family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your delicious Apple Hand Pies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Saucepan
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly to create perfect pie crusts.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for your hand pies to bake on without bending or breaking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy by lining the baking sheet.

Ingredients

To make these delectable Apple Hand Pies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Filling

• 3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled & diced
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp flour (to thicken)

For the Pastry

• 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)

For Topping

• 1 egg + 1 tbsp water (egg wash)
• 1 tbsp coarse sugar (for sprinkling)

Optional Enhancements

• Add ½ tsp cardamom for extra spice
• Drizzle with caramel or glaze after baking
• Mix in raisins or chopped pecans with the filling

How to Make Apple Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced apples with brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until the apples are tender. Once cooked, remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Assemble the Pies

Roll out your dough on a floured surface. Cut it into circles about 4–5 inches in diameter. Place a spoonful of apple filling onto one half of each circle, ensuring you leave edges clear.

Step 3: Seal the Hand Pies

Carefully fold the dough over to cover the filling. Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal them shut. Cut small slits on top to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 4: Bake Your Hand Pies

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place your sealed hand pies on a parchment-lined baking tray. Brush them with an egg wash and sprinkle coarse sugar on top. Bake for 18–22 minutes until they are golden brown.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Enjoy your Apple Hand Pies warm out of the oven! They’re best served fresh but can also be drizzled with caramel or enjoyed alongside ice cream for an extra indulgence.

How to Serve Apple Hand Pies

Apple hand pies are versatile treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for dessert or a snack, here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

A La Mode

• Serve warm apple hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture complements the spiced apple filling perfectly.

With Caramel Drizzle

• Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top of the pies. This adds a rich sweetness that elevates their flavor profile.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side for added richness. It balances the spices and offers a light, airy contrast.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy apple hand pies alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverages enhances the comfort food experience.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include apple hand pies on a dessert platter along with other treats like cookies and brownies. This makes for an inviting presentation at gatherings.

How to Perfect Apple Hand Pies

Creating perfect apple hand pies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve that flaky, delicious pastry every time.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Start with cold butter and water when making your pie crust. This ensures flakiness in the baked pastry.
• Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling your pies to prevent leaks during baking. A heaping tablespoon of filling per pie is sufficient.
• Seal Properly: Ensure edges are sealed well using a fork or by crimping them with your fingers. This keeps the filling contained while baking.
• Chill Before Baking: Refrigerate assembled pies for about 15 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape and enhances flakiness.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pies as they bake. Remove them once they’re golden brown for the best texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Hand Pies

Apple hand pies pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some tasty options to consider when serving them.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic pairing that adds creamy sweetness and balances out the spiced filling of the hand pies.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the richness of the hand pies.
3. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips
   These crunchy chips offer a sweet and spicy addition, perfect for dipping into caramel or chocolate sauce.
4. Hot Chocolate
   A warm cup of hot chocolate complements the comforting flavors of apple hand pies, making it perfect for chilly days.
5. Cheese Board
   A selection of mild cheeses paired with apples can create a delightful contrast in flavors and textures alongside your pies.
6. Caramel Sauce Dip
   Serving extra caramel sauce on the side allows guests to dip their hand pies for an indulgent treat that’s sure to please.
7. Maple Syrup
   Drizzling maple syrup can add another layer of sweetness, enhancing the natural flavors of the apples in your hand pies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Hand Pies can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold pastry choices: Using the wrong type of pie crust can result in soggy or tough hand pies. Opt for a flaky, all-butter crust for the best texture.
• Skipping the cooling step: Adding hot filling to the pastry can make it difficult to seal. Always let your apple filling cool before assembling your hand pies.
• Overfilling: It’s tempting to pack in a lot of filling, but overstuffing can cause leaks during baking. Stick to about one tablespoon of filling per pie.
• Ignoring egg wash: Skipping the egg wash can result in dull-looking pastries. Brush your hand pies with an egg wash for a golden, shiny finish.
• Not using parchment paper: Baking directly on a tray can lead to sticking and uneven browning. Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up and perfect baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store unused Apple Hand Pies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Hand Pies

• For longer storage, freeze baked or unbaked hand pies.
• Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds. This may result in a softer crust.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about Apple Hand Pies, here are some common questions answered.

What apples are best for Apple Hand Pies?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples work wonderfully due to their balance of sweetness and tartness.

Can I make Apple Hand Pies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and dough ahead of time. Assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.

How do I customize my Apple Hand Pies?

Feel free to add spices like cardamom or mix in ingredients such as raisins or chopped pecans to enhance flavor.

How should I store leftover Apple Hand Pies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Apple Hand Pies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their flaky crust and spiced apple filling make them perfect for any occasion—whether it’s fall snacking or holiday gatherings. Don’t hesitate to customize your fillings with nuts or additional spices!