Every time I make these Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies, I’m transported back to my childhood, where the sweet aroma of baked apples filled our kitchen on crisp fall afternoons. It’s amazing how certain smells can bring back such fond memories, isn’t it? I remember sitting around the table with my loved ones, eagerly waiting for that first bite of a warm, flaky pie. It’s these moments that inspire me to recreate that same joy in my own home now.
There’s just something about a cozy dessert that brings people together—especially when it’s as simple and delightful as these hand pies. That’s why I’m so excited to share this recipe with you today. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weekend treat or a way to utilize those lovely autumn apples, these Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies are the perfect solution. I know once you whip these up in your kitchen, you’ll feel that warmth and comfort, just like I do when I make them!
How to Make Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies
Ingredients
Let’s gather what we need for this delicious recipe. Here’s a simple table to guide you through the ingredients.
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Apples, peeled and diced | 2 cups |
Sugar | 1/2 cup |
Cinnamon | 1 tsp |
Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
Refrigerated pie crusts | 1 package |
Egg (for egg wash) | 1 |
Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting | to taste |
I absolutely love using fresh apples for this recipe because they give the hand pies that juicy, sweet burst of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you could also use canned apple pie filling, but trust me, nothing beats the taste of fresh apples!
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
The first thing to do is preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This is an essential step for achieving that perfect golden crust. I can’t stress enough how important it is to give your air fryer a moment to warm up!
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
While the air fryer is heating, let’s get our apples ready. In a mixing bowl, combine your 2 cups of peeled and diced apples with 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 tsp of cinnamon, and 1 tbsp of lemon juice. The lemon juice not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the apples from browning too quickly. Mix everything until the apples are coated in that sugary, cinnamon goodness!
Step 3: Roll Out the Pie Crust
Next, take your refrigerated pie crust and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. You want it to be thin enough that you can cut it into circles—about 4 to 5 inches in diameter works great. If you don’t have a round cutter, a drinking glass will do just fine!
Step 4: Fill the Pie Circles
Place a spoonful of your apple mixture onto one half of each pie crust circle. Be careful not to overfill them; about a tablespoon of filling per pie is perfect. This ensures that the filling doesn’t spill out during the cooking process.
Step 5: Seal the Pies
Now, fold the other half of your dough over the filling to create a little pocket. You can crimp the edges with your fingers or use a fork to seal them tight. This is where you can get a little creative!
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash
In a small bowl, beat your 1 egg to create an egg wash. Brush this over the top of each hand pie. Not only does this help them turn that perfect golden color, but it also adds a nice sheen!
Step 7: Air Fry the Hand Pies
Place your hand pies in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer. Air fry them for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Oh, the smell in your kitchen will be heavenly!
Step 8: Cool Them Down
Once they’re done cooking, carefully remove the pies from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. I know it’s hard to resist that first bite, but trust me, you don’t want to burn your mouth!
Step 9: Dust with Powdered Sugar
If you want to take these hand pies to the next level, feel free to dust them with some powdered sugar before serving. This little touch makes them look so pretty and inviting!
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!
Now, gather your family or friends around and serve these sweet treats warm. You’re going to love the smiles on their faces!
Why I Love Making This Dish
These Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies hold a special place in my heart because they remind me of those joyous autumn days spent with family, cinnamon wafting through the air. Baking is about so much more than just the food; it’s the love and memories you create around it. Every time I make these hand pies, I feel like I’m sharing a piece of my history with you.
What You’ll Need
You’ll need a few special tools for this dish, but nothing too fancy! Just your standard mixing bowl, a rolling pin, a round cutter, and an air fryer. If you don’t have an air fryer yet, I highly recommend investing in one! They’re a game-changer in the kitchen (making everything crisp and delicious), and they save so much time!
Tips for Perfect Results
- Apple Variety: I love using Granny Smith apples for that tart flavor, but feel free to mix and match with sweeter ones like Fuji or Honeycrisp.
- Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to pile on the filling, but remember that too much could burst out during cooking.
- Let Them Cool: Give your hand pies a few minutes to cool after frying; this helps set the filling and make them easier to handle.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
These hand pies are perfect to enjoy on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence! You could also serve them with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for even more flavor.
Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my home!), you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy crust. You might find yourself sneaking another one late at night!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen apples? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them out and drain any excess moisture before mixing with the sugar and cinnamon.
What air fryer do you recommend? I’ve been using my trusty air fryer for years, and I really love the ones with a digital display to set the time and temperature easily.
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the hand pies and freeze them before cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply cook them from frozen—just add a couple more minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
Making these Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies has brought a little slice of joy into my kitchen, and I can’t wait for you to experience the same happiness. It’s a simple recipe that fills your home with delicious smells and creates lasting memories with loved ones around the table. So, gather your ingredients, get ready to bake, and enjoy every delightful bite of these sweet treats! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out, so please share your experience with me!