Apple Hand Pies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These hand pies are simple to make and incredibly satisfying. The buttery crust pairs beautifully with the sweet and slightly tart apple filling. They’re great for desserts, snacks, or even special occasions. Plus, they can be baked or fried, and they’re easy to customize with your favorite spices or toppings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups diced apples (peeled)
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon butter
1 package pie crusts (or homemade dough)
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
Optional: coarse sugar for topping

Directions

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.

Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften.

Stir in the cornstarch and butter, and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

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

Roll out the pie crust and cut into small circles or rectangles.

Place a spoonful of the cooled apple filling in the center of each piece of dough.

Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges with a fork to seal.

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk, then brush over the tops of the pies. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.

Cut small slits in the top of each pie to allow steam to escape.

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8–10 hand pies
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: about 45 minutes

Variations

You can add raisins or chopped nuts to the filling for extra texture. Try using pears or a mix of fruits for a different flavor. For a caramel twist, drizzle caramel sauce over the finished pies. You can also fry the pies instead of baking them for a crispier exterior.

Storage/Reheating

Store hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven at 170°C (340°F) for a few minutes to restore crispiness. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months and reheated from frozen.

FAQs

What type of apples work best?

Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and provide great flavor.

Can I use store-bought pie crust?

Yes, store-bought crust works perfectly and saves time.

Can I freeze apple hand pies?

Yes, you can freeze them baked or unbaked for later use.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking?

Seal the edges well and avoid overfilling the dough.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and refrigerate them before baking.

Can I fry instead of bake?

Yes, frying gives a crispier texture and rich flavor.

Why are my pies soggy?

Make sure the filling is thick and cooled before assembling.

Can I make them vegan?

Yes, use plant-based butter and skip the egg wash or replace it with plant milk.

How do I get a golden crust?

Brush with egg wash before baking for a shiny, golden finish.

Can I add other spices?

Yes, try adding cloves, allspice, or ginger for more depth.

Conclusion

Apple hand pies are a delightful and comforting treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With their flaky crust and sweet apple filling, they capture the essence of homemade pie in a portable form. Whether enjoyed fresh or reheated, they’re sure to be a favorite for everyone.

Apple Hand Pies

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These apple hand pies are golden, flaky pastries filled with a warm, spiced apple mixture. They offer all the comforting flavors of classic apple pie in a convenient handheld form.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 8–10 hand pies
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 cups diced apples (peeled)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 package pie crusts (or homemade dough)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
• Optional: coarse sugar for topping

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Instructions

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
2. Cook for 5–7 minutes until apples begin to soften, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in cornstarch and butter, cooking for another 2–3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and cool completely.
4. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Roll out pie crust and cut into small circles or rectangles.
6. Place a spoonful of cooled apple filling in the center of each piece.
7. Fold dough over filling and press edges with a fork to seal.
8. Whisk egg and milk, then brush over the tops. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
9. Cut small slits on top to allow steam to escape.
10. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
11. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

• Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture.
• Ensure filling is cooled to prevent soggy dough.
• Seal edges well to avoid leaks during baking.
• Store at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
• Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 hand pie
• Calories: 220 kcal
• Sugar: 14 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 25 mg