If you are on the hunt for a charming, cozy treat that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Delicious Apple Hand Pies Recipe is just what you need. Bursting with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples wrapped in buttery, flaky pastry, these hand pies are a perfect bite-sized indulgence that you can enjoy anytime. Whether it’s a quick afternoon snack, a dessert for your next gathering, or just a way to celebrate fresh apples, this recipe brings joy with every fold and every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet crucial to building the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your hand pies. Each component, from the crisp apples to the flaky dough, works in harmony to create a delightful final result.
- 2 medium apples, peeled & diced: Fresh apples provide the sweet, juicy core of the filling that defines the pie’s flavor.
- 2 tbsp brown sugar: Adds deep, molasses-like sweetness that complements the tartness of the apples.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: This warm spice infuses the filling with classic apple pie warmth and aroma.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the filling and prevents the apples from browning too quickly.
- 1 tbsp flour: Helps thicken the filling to prevent sogginess in the crust.
- 1 package refrigerated pie dough: Convenient and flaky, this dough forms the perfect golden casing for the filling.
- 1 egg (for egg wash): Brushes onto the dough to create that glossy, baked-to-perfection finish.
- 1 tbsp milk: Mixed with the egg wash for a smooth application and even coloring.
- Optional: coarse sugar for topping: Adds a lovely sparkle and crunch to the crust’s surface.
How to Make Delicious Apple Hand Pies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Making sure the oven is hot enough from the get-go ensures that the dough starts baking immediately, giving you that signature flaky crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and flour. This mixture is the heart of your pies; the lemon juice keeps the flavors vibrant and the flour thickens the juices as it bakes, so your pies don’t end up soggy.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Roll out the refrigerated pie dough on a lightly floured surface and cut it into shapes—circles or rectangles, whichever you prefer. This step is fun because you get to decide the shape and size that relates best to your hand-held pie preferences.
Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies
Spoon the apple filling generously onto half of each dough piece. Then cover with the second piece of dough and press the edges firmly to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork to make sure nothing leaks out during baking.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch
Mix the egg and milk together and brush this egg wash gently over the top of each pie. This creates a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if you want an extra sweet and crunchy top.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. The pies are done when they are beautifully golden brown and the filling is bubbling inside.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Allow your hand pies to cool slightly on a rack before digging in. This short rest lets the filling set just enough to keep everything deliciously intact with every bite.
How to Serve Delicious Apple Hand Pies Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your apple hand pies with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a pretty presentation or a drizzle of caramel sauce to add an extra touch of indulgence. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also make these pies feel like a special dessert.
Side Dishes
Though these pies shine on their own, pairing them with warm beverages like spiced chai tea or homemade apple cider elevates the cozy vibes. For brunch, a simple side salad with seasonal greens can balance the sweetness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try wrapping your hand pies individually in brightly colored parchment and tying them with twine for a rustic gift or picnic treat. Alternatively, arrange them on a large serving platter with fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks for a festive party display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the crust tender but still delightfully flaky.
Freezing
To enjoy these pies later, freeze them before baking by wrapping each pie tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze well for up to one month and can be baked straight from frozen.
Reheating
Warm your hand pies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to re-crisp the crust and refresh the filling. Microwaving is faster but might soften the crust too much.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this Delicious Apple Hand Pies Recipe?
Absolutely! Tart apples like Granny Smith hold up well when baked, but sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji also work beautifully depending on your flavor preference.
Is it possible to make these hand pies vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the butter-based pie dough with a vegan alternative and use a plant-based milk mixed with maple syrup or agave instead of the egg wash for a lovely glaze.
How do I prevent the filling from spilling out during baking?
Make sure to seal the edges thoroughly using a fork or your fingers and avoid overfilling the pies. Chilling them briefly before baking can also help maintain their shape.
Can I double this recipe?
Definitely! The ingredients and steps scale easily, making it perfect for bigger gatherings or meal prep. Just ensure you have enough baking space or do multiple batches.
What’s the best way to serve these hand pies warm without soggy crusts?
Serve them fresh from the oven or reheat in a conventional oven rather than a microwave to keep the crust crisp and flaky.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to bring a smile to your day with a sweet, flaky, and utterly satisfying treat, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this Delicious Apple Hand Pies Recipe. It’s approachable, quick, and truly rewarding to have those warm, cinnamon-kissed hand pies fresh from your own kitchen. Share them with friends or keep them all to yourself — either way, you’re in for a deliciously cozy experience.
Print
Delicious Apple Hand Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 hand pies (6-8 depending on size)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These homemade apple hand pies are perfect individual-sized treats filled with a sweet and spiced apple mixture. Using refrigerated pie dough makes these hand pies quick and easy to prepare, while the combination of cinnamon and lemon juice brightens the classic apple filling. Baked until golden brown and topped with a crunchy sugar sprinkle, these pies are great for dessert or a comforting snack.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 medium apples, peeled & diced
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp flour (to thicken)
Dough and Topping
- 1 package refrigerated pie dough
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp milk
- Optional: coarse sugar for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature by the time your pies are assembled.
- Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and flour. Stir everything together until the apples are evenly coated and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Roll and cut the dough: Roll out the refrigerated pie dough on a lightly floured surface. Cut the dough into circles or rectangles, depending on your preference, to form the base of each hand pie.
- Assemble the pies: Spoon a generous amount of the apple filling onto half of each dough shape. Cover each with another dough piece and press the edges together firmly to seal, preventing the filling from leaking during baking.
- Apply egg wash and add sugar: Beat the egg with the milk to create an egg wash. Brush this over the tops of the hand pies, then sprinkle with coarse sugar if using, for a nice golden color and crunchy texture.
- Bake: Place the hand pies on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Allow the pies to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving to ensure the filling sets and they are safe to eat.
Notes
- You can use Granny Smith or any tart apple variety for the best flavor and texture.
- Ensure the edges are sealed well to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
- Coarse sugar topping is optional but adds a nice crunch and sweetness.
- These hand pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a low oven or toaster oven to refresh the crust before serving.
