Every time I make these Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies, it takes me back to those crisp autumn days of my childhood. I can still picture my mother in the kitchen, the sweet aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through our cozy home. Those were the days when we would gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter over warm, homemade desserts. It was more than just food; it was a connection, a tradition that made our family bond even stronger. As the leaves change and the air turns brisk, I find myself craving these delightful little hand pies to share with my own family. I know that once you get a taste of these, you’ll feel the warmth and love wrapped in each bite, just as I did when I was a child!
How to make Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies
Ingredients
Here’s a simple list of what you will need to create these amazing pies. Each ingredient plays a vital role in the overall taste and texture, so it’s worth noting!
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Apples (peeled and diced) | 2 cups |
Sugar | 1/2 cup |
Cinnamon | 1 tsp |
Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
Pre-made pie crusts (or homemade) | 1 package |
Egg (for egg wash) | 1 |
Milk (for egg wash) | 1 tbsp |
Butter (for brushing) | 1 tbsp, melted |
Optional: Cinnamon sugar for sprinkling | to taste |
I absolutely love adding a touch of fresh nutmeg to the apples—it’s a small change that truly makes a difference!
Cooking Steps
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delicious hand pies! I promise, it’s simpler than you might think.
1. Prepare the Apples
Start by washing and peeling your apples. I usually choose a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Dice them into small pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Mix the Filling
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Give it a good stir until the apples are well coated. This step fills your kitchen with a beautiful aroma! Let it sit for a few minutes while you prepare the pastry.
3. Roll Out the Pie Crust
If you’re using pre-made pie crusts, simply roll them out on a floured surface. If you prefer homemade crust, go ahead and make your favorite recipe! Cut the dough into circles about 4-5 inches in diameter. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; they’ll taste great either way.
4. Assemble the Pies
Place a generous spoonful of the apple mixture onto one half of each dough circle. You don’t want to overfill them; trust me on this! Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and use a fork to crimp the edges—this seals in all that lovely filling.
5. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown, crispy exterior on your pies!
6. Brush with Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk the egg with the milk. Brush this mixture over the tops of each pie. It will give them a beautiful shiny finish once cooked. If you like, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top for added sweetness.
7. Air Fry the Pies
Place the hand pies in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd them! Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are nicely golden brown and crispy. You might want to check them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
8. Brush with Butter
Once they’re done, remove them from the air fryer and immediately brush them with melted butter. This extra step adds an incredible richness to each bite.
9. Let Them Cool
Allow the hand pies to cool slightly before serving them. The filling will be hot, and we want to avoid any burns!
Why I Love Making This Dish
These Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies hold a special place in my heart because they remind me of the love in my family’s kitchen. Watching my children gather around to help as I bake always fills me with happiness. It’s a wonderful way for us to connect, share, and create lasting memories together. Plus, the smell of them cooking is just magical! There’s something so comforting about home-baked treats that store-bought simply can’t replicate.
What You’ll Need
You will need a few special tools for this recipe:
- Air Fryer: This is the magic machine that gives these pies their delicious crispiness without the need for deep frying.
- Rolling Pin: If you’re rolling out your own dough, a rolling pin is essential.
- Fork: Great for sealing the edges of the hand pies.
- Pastry Brush: Perfect for applying the egg wash.
Trust me, having these handy will make your pie-making process smooth sailing!
Tips for Perfect Results
Here are some little tips I’ve gathered over the years to ensure your hand pies turn out perfectly every single time:
- For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the apple filling.
- If you love a bit of crunch in your pies, add some chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling. It gives a delightful texture.
- To keep the crust tender, avoid overworking the dough. Gentle hands work best here!
- If you’d like to make these ahead of time, you can freeze the assembled pies before air frying. Just pop them in the air fryer straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
When it comes to serving these delightful Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies, I love to pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s a classic combination that never disappoints! You could also serve them with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.
For a cozy fall dinner, try serving them alongside a warm bowl of butternut squash soup. The flavors complement each other beautifully, creating the perfect autumn meal.
Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (although I doubt it—they’re just that good!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within a couple of days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through. This will help keep the crust crispy.
You can also warm them up in the microwave, but just a word of caution: the crust may not remain as crispy as if you use the air fryer!
FAQ Section
Can I use other fruits besides apples?
Absolutely! While apples are classic, you can try using pears, peaches, or even berries. Just adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit!
How do I know when they’re done?
You’ll want to look for a golden-brown color on the tops of the hand pies. The filling should be bubbling slightly out of the sides, but not overflowing.
Can I double the recipe?
Of course! If you have a larger air fryer or the patience to make them in batches, feel free to double up. They also make great gifts for neighbors or friends during the holidays!
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies recipe has become a staple in my home, especially as the leaves begin to turn and the air gets a bit cooler. I can’t wait for you to try it and share in the joy it brings. The warmth and love wrapped in these little pies are truly something special. So, get your family involved, create those beautiful memories, and savor every delightful bite! Let me know how it turns out for you, and I have no doubt that your family will be asking for seconds, just like mine does every time. Happy baking!