Apple hand pies are the perfect treat for any occasion! Imagine biting into a warm, flaky crust filled with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples that make your taste buds dance. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around and drool in anticipation. Each bite delivers a delightful crunch followed by a gooey apple filling that’s reminiscent of cozy fall afternoons with family and friends.
These little bundles of joy hold a special place in my heart. I remember making them with my grandma during harvest season, her laughter mixing with the sweet scent of baked apples and spices. They were our go-to dessert at every family gathering, bringing smiles and happy memories. Whether it’s a picnic in the park or a cozy night in, these apple hand pies will surely elevate the moment and leave you craving more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These apple hand pies are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for any skill level
- Their irresistible flavor combines tartness from fresh apples with warm spices for an unforgettable experience
- Visually, they are charming little pastries that look great on any dessert table
- Plus, they are versatile enough to enjoy as snacks or desserts, hot or cold!
I still chuckle when I think about my family’s reactions the first time I made these on my own; let’s just say there weren’t many left after dessert!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Apples: Choose firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith for the best flavor contrast in your filling.
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Puff Pastry: Frozen puff pastry works wonders here—just thaw it before using for that flaky texture.
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Cinnamon: Use ground cinnamon for warmth; it’s the secret spice that makes your filling sing.
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Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; you can also use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
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Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens the filling and balances the sweetness.
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Egg Wash: An egg mixed with water gives your hand pies that golden-brown finish everyone loves.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare your workspace: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid any sticky situations later.
Make the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, combine peeled and diced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss until well coated; let it sit for about 10 minutes to develop flavors.
Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out thawed puff pastry until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into squares or circles—whatever shape you fancy!
Fill and Seal Your Hand Pies: Place a spoonful of the apple mixture onto one half of each pastry piece. Fold over and crimp edges with a fork to seal tightly; this keeps all that goodness inside.
Brush with Egg Wash: Whisk together an egg and water in a small bowl. Brush this mixture over each pie for that shiny finish; it makes them look extra tempting!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Enjoy watching them puff up while filling your home with irresistible aromas!
With these simple steps, you’re just moments away from enjoying those delightful apple hand pies!
You Must Know
- Apple hand pies are not just treats; they’re bite-sized happiness
- The flaky crust and sweet filling create a delightful combination that will make your taste buds dance
- Enjoy them warm for the ultimate cozy dessert experience, perfect for sharing or indulging solo
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the pie dough first, then chop apples and mix the filling while it chills. This ensures a perfectly flaky crust every time.
Add Your Touch
Customize your apple hand pies with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or swap apples for pears. These small changes can elevate the flavors significantly.
Storing & Reheating
Store apple hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness, about 10 minutes at 350°F.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect apple hand pies, always chill the dough before rolling it out
- Avoid overfilling to prevent leaks during baking
- Brush with egg wash for a golden finish that dazzles everyone
Making these apple hand pies always brings back memories of my grandma’s kitchen, where we’d bake together on chilly afternoons, giggling as we tried not to eat all the filling before it even reached the pie.
FAQ
What type of apples work best for apple hand pies?
Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp provide a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
Can I freeze apple hand pies?
Yes, freeze unbaked hand pies on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
How do I know when my apple hand pies are done?
Look for a golden-brown crust and bubbling filling as signs that they are ready to enjoy!
Apple Hand Pies
Apple hand pies are a delightful, portable pastry that combines a flaky crust with a sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling. Perfect for any occasion, these treats evoke warmth and nostalgia with every bite. Whether enjoyed at a family gathering or as a cozy snack at home, these hand pies will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 8 hand pies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 package (17.3 oz) frozen puff pastry (2 sheets)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix the diced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into squares or circles.
- Place spoonfuls of the apple mixture on one half of each pastry piece. Fold over and crimp edges with a fork to seal.
- Whisk the egg with water and brush it over each pie for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 hand pie (85g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
