A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion
Deep-fried apple hand pies are the perfect combination of crispy and sweet, making them an irresistible treat. There’s something comforting about biting into a golden, flaky crust filled with warm apple pie filling. This recipe is ideal for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply when you crave a nostalgic dessert that transports you back to your childhood. Trust me when I say, these hand pies will quickly become a favorite for everyone lucky enough to try them.
Why you’ll love this dish
These deep-fried apple hand pies are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. They require minimal ingredients and time, making them a practical choice for both busy weeknights and festive occasions. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert to surprise your kids or something to impress guests at a brunch, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. They’re also budget-friendly since you can whip them up with pantry staples and a can of apple pie filling!
"These hand pies are a game-changer! My kids couldn’t get enough, and I loved how simple they were to make. Definitely a family favorite!" – Sarah, a happy home cook.
How this recipe comes together
The process of making these tiny delights starts simply with a few key ingredients and straightforward steps. You’ll be rolling out pie crusts, filling them with delicious apple filling, and frying them to crispy perfection. The final touch is a sweet glaze that adds an irresistible shine.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll be doing:
- Prepare the fryer and monitor the oil’s temperature.
- Cut out your pie crusts and fill them.
- Seal and fry each pie until golden.
- Glaze them for a sweet finish!
What you’ll need
To whip up these scrumptious deep-fried apple hand pies, gather the following ingredients:
- 21 oz. can apple pie filling
- Refrigerated pie crust (enough for about 12 rounds)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon corn syrup
- 1 tablespoon water
- Vegetable Oil for frying (4-5 inches deep in your pot)
You can easily substitute the apple filling with other pie fillings, like cherry or peach, if you’re looking for a different flavor!
Step-by-step instructions
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In a heavy Dutch oven, fill with vegetable oil to a depth of 4-5 inches. Using an oil or candy thermometer, heat the oil to 375°F. Be cautious: oil that’s too cold will make your pies greasy, while oil that’s too hot will burn them.
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Roll out your refrigerated pie crust. Using a 3-4 inch round or fluted cookie cutter, cut out six rounds from each pie crust (you may need to gather scraps and re-roll to get a full sixth round from each crust).
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Place a heaping tablespoon of the apple pie filling in the center of six rounds.
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With your fingers or a pastry brush, dab water around the edges of the crust and top with a second round, pressing down to seal the pie.
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Crimp the edges with a fork to ensure they are completely sealed.
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In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, corn syrup, and water to create your glaze. Cover with a damp paper towel to keep it moist while you fry.
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Carefully deep-fry one hand pie at a time in the hot oil for 2-3 minutes, or until the crust is deeply golden brown.
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Remove the pie from the oil and transfer it to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
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While hot, brush glaze over both sides of the pies and place them on a cooling rack.
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Repeat the frying and glazing process with the remaining hand pies. Serve immediately for the best experience!
Best ways to enjoy it
These deep-fried apple hand pies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience with a few creative serving suggestions. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic combo. They also lovingly accompany a cup of warm caramel sauce for dipping or a drizzle of chocolate sauce if you want to entice your inner chocoholic!
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you’re lucky enough to have any leftovers, you should store them properly. Allow the pies to cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or you can heat them in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds.
If you want to keep them longer, these hand pies can also be frozen. Just allow them to cool completely, wrap them securely in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat them directly from frozen.
Pro chef tips
- Careful with the temperature: Monitoring oil temperature is crucial. A good way to test if your oil is ready is to drop a small piece of dough in; if it sizzles and rises, you’re good to go.
- Chill your dough: For extra flaky pastries, chill the pie crust before rolling it out; cooler dough is easier to handle and results in a better texture.
- Experiment with fillings: Don’t be afraid to mix up the flavors! Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple filling, or experiment with crumb topping before frying.
Creative twists
There are endless possibilities to customize these deep-fried treats! Want something different? Here are a few variations to consider:
- Pumpkin Spice Filling: Use pumpkin puree mixed with spices for a fall-inspired pie.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt chocolate chips and drizzle over the glaze for a decadent twist.
- Savory Hand Pies: Swap the sweet apple filling for savory options like cheese and spinach for a trendy appetizer.
Common questions
What is the prep time for these hand pies?
From start to finish, including frying, it takes about 30-40 minutes.
Can I use homemade pie crust?
Absolutely! Homemade pie crust will take your hand pies to a new level of deliciousness, just be sure to roll them out thinly.
How do I make the glaze thicker or thinner?
To adjust the consistency of your glaze, simply add more powdered sugar to make it thicker or a splash more water to thin it out.
Dive into this delightful recipe and enjoy the comforting flavors of these deep-fried apple hand pies. Your kitchen will soon be filled with mouthwatering aromas, and they’ll be an instant hit with family and friends!
Deep-Fried Apple Hand Pies
Ingredients
For the Hand Pies
- 21 oz can apple pie filling
- 1 pack Refrigerated pie crust (enough for about 12 rounds)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon corn syrup
- 1 tablespoon water
- Vegetable Oil for frying (4-5 inches deep in your pot)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a heavy Dutch oven, fill with vegetable oil to a depth of 4-5 inches. Heat the oil to 375°F, being careful of the temperature.
- Roll out the refrigerated pie crust. Using a 3-4 inch round or fluted cookie cutter, cut out six rounds from each pie crust.
- Place a heaping tablespoon of the apple pie filling in the center of six rounds.
- Dab water around the edges of the crust and top with a second round, pressing down to seal the pie.
- Crimp the edges with a fork to ensure they are completely sealed.
Cooking
- In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, corn syrup, and water to create the glaze and cover it with a damp paper towel.
- Deep-fry one hand pie at a time in the hot oil for 2-3 minutes, or until the crust is deeply golden brown.
- Remove the pie from the oil and transfer it to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
- While hot, brush glaze over both sides of the pies and place them on a cooling rack.
- Repeat the frying and glazing process with the remaining hand pies and serve immediately.