If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly embodies comfort and warmth, Fried Apple Pies are exactly what you need. Imagine a crispy, flaky crust enveloping a luscious cinnamon-infused apple filling that is hard to resist. These delightful little hand pies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also evoke fond memories of cozy gatherings and family traditions. They are an exceptional way to celebrate the flavors of fall, making them a fantastic addition to any holiday meal or a simple snack to enjoy as the days turn cooler.
What’s more, these Fried Apple Pies are super easy to prepare, allowing you to whip them up even on a busy day. Whether you decide to fry them fresh or prepare the filling ahead of time, they promise deliciousness in every bite. Each pie is a perfect balance between the comforting taste of apples and the delightful crunch of the golden-brown crust. This recipe yields 8-10 pies, perfect for sharing, but trust us, you might want to keep them all to yourself!
Why You’ll Love This Fried Apple Pies Recipe
- Irresistible Crunch: The flaky crust perfectly complements the gooey apple filling, making every bite a delightful experience.
- Quick and Easy: With straightforward instructions and minimal prep time, you can have these pies ready in no time!
- Homemade Comfort: Nothing beats the taste of homemade pies filled with warm, cinnamon-spiced apples.
- Versatile Treat: Serve them for breakfast, dessert, or as a fun snack during gatherings. They’re great any time of day!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a cozy weekend, these pies fit the bill.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into creating these delicious Fried Apple Pies, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen workspace to ensure a smooth cooking process. Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools in one place; this will make the cooking steps more manageable. You’ll need a large skillet for cooking the apple filling and a rolling pin to roll out your dough. It’s also helpful to have a cookie cutter or a glass on hand for cutting the pie circles. A slotted spoon will come in handy for removing the fried pies from the oil, and a cooling rack lined with paper towels will assist in draining excess oil from the pies. Setting your ingredients within arm’s reach keeps the flow of cooking enjoyable and less stressful.
Ingredients
- 2 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 medium Honeycrisp apple, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 0.25 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade chilled dough)
- all-purpose flour, for dusting
- 3 cups vegetable oil (or canola oil) for frying
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk (optional, mixed with egg for egg wash)
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (or cream)
- 0.25 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples to the pan and stir well. Next, sprinkle the brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, a pinch of salt, and the lemon juice over the apples. This aromatic combination will enhance the natural sweetness of the apples. Allow the mixture to cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples have softened slightly. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible!
Step 2: Thicken the Filling
Once the apples are tender, it’s time to thicken the mixture. Stir in the cornstarch slurry (which is just cornstarch mixed with water) and cook the filling for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. This will help bind the juices together, creating a cohesive filling that won’t leak out when frying. After this, remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool completely. This cooling step is crucial for avoiding a burnt tongue while eating your pies!
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Take your prepared refrigerated pie crust or homemade dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1/8-inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out 4 to 5-inch circles from the dough. Don’t worry if the shapes are not perfect; these pies are rustic and homemade, which adds to their charm!
Step 4: Assemble the Pies
Now comes the fun part! Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of your cooled apple filling onto the center of each dough circle. This is where you can adjust based on how generous you want your pies to be! Next, brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg wash (the egg mixed with a bit of milk). Fold the dough over the filling to create half-moons and crimp the edges with a fork to seal them securely. Make sure there are no gaps for the filling to escape!
Step 5: Fry the Pies
In a deep skillet or a frying pot, heat the vegetable or canola oil to about 350°F. Test the oil by dropping in a small piece of dough, and if it sizzles, it’s ready. Fry the pies in batches, 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning them until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pies from the hot oil and place them on a paper towel-lined rack to drain any excess oil. If you love the smell of fresh apple pie, this step will definitely fill your home!
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding a bit of cooked and crumbled bacon to the apple filling for a savory twist.
- Vegetables: Mix in finely diced carrots or sweet potatoes for a veggie-packed pie.
- Spices: Experiment with adding a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for a different flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- Be sure to monitor the oil temperature closely to ensure even frying and to prevent burning.
- If using homemade dough, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before rolling for better handling.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an irresistible dessert.
- Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
Tips
- Leftover fried apple pies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle additional powdered sugar right before serving for an irresistible presentation.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 210 per pie
- Protein: 2 grams
- Sodium: 130 mg
FAQs
How can I make the pies healthier?
You can use whole wheat flour for the crust and reduce the sugar in the filling. Additionally, baking instead of frying is also a healthier alternative.
What can I use instead of apples?
Pear or peach filling can also be used to create delightful variations of these pie recipes. Just be sure to adjust the spices accordingly!
Can I freeze the pies before frying?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but uncooked pies. Just stack them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking and fry them directly from frozen.
What should I serve with fried apple pies?
They are delicious on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce takes them to the next level!
Conclusion
These Fried Apple Pies encapsulate the essence of warmth and comfort food in a single bite. With their flawless crust and sweet, spiced apple goodness, they truly are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you share them with loved ones or indulge in a solo dessert, every pie promises a delicious experience. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own by experimenting with different fillings or serving styles. Don’t forget to let us know how they turned out — we love hearing your feedback! Happy frying!
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Fried Apple Pies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
Description
If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly embodies comfort and warmth, Fried Apple Pies are exactly what you need.
Ingredients
- 2 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 medium Honeycrisp apple, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 0.25 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade chilled dough)
- all-purpose flour, for dusting
- 3 cups vegetable oil (or canola oil) for frying
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk (optional, mixed with egg for egg wash)
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (or cream)
- 0.25 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples to the pan and stir well. Next, sprinkle the brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, a pinch of salt, and the lemon juice over the apples. This aromatic combination will enhance the natural sweetness of the apples. Allow the mixture to cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples have softened slightly. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible!
- Once the apples are tender, it’s time to thicken the mixture. Stir in the cornstarch slurry (which is just cornstarch mixed with water) and cook the filling for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. This will help bind the juices together, creating a cohesive filling that won’t leak out when frying. After this, remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool completely. This cooling step is crucial for avoiding a burnt tongue while eating your pies!
- Take your prepared refrigerated pie crust or homemade dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1/8-inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out 4 to 5-inch circles from the dough. Don’t worry if the shapes are not perfect; these pies are rustic and homemade, which adds to their charm!
- Now comes the fun part! Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of your cooled apple filling onto the center of each dough circle. This is where you can adjust based on how generous you want your pies to be! Next, brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg wash (the egg mixed with a bit of milk). Fold the dough over the filling to create half-moons and crimp the edges with a fork to seal them securely. Make sure there are no gaps for the filling to escape!
- In a deep skillet or a frying pot, heat the vegetable or canola oil to about 350°F. Test the oil by dropping in a small piece of dough, and if it sizzles, it’s ready. Fry the pies in batches, 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning them until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pies from the hot oil and place them on a paper towel-lined rack to drain any excess oil. If you love the smell of fresh apple pie, this step will definitely fill your home!
Notes
Leftover fried apple pies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 210 per pie
- Sodium: 130 mg
- Protein: 2 grams