Name: Delicious Apple Hand Pies: Flaky, Sweet, and Perfect for Fall
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 62 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces Pie Crusts (homemade or store-bought); 2 cups Chopped Apples (mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp); 0.25 cups Granulated Sugar; 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour; 0.5 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract; 0.5-1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (adjust to taste); 0.125 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg; 1 tablespoon Butter (optional) (cubed); 1 large Egg (beaten); 1 tablespoon Milk; Coarse Sugar (for sprinkling on top)

As I peeled the layers away from the autumn breeze, the sweet scent of ripe apples mingled with cinnamon wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy harvest gatherings. Today, I’m thrilled to share my go-to recipe for Apple Hand Pies—perfect little pockets of joy that encapsulate all the warmth of fall. With their flaky, buttery crusts and a spiced apple filling, these hand pies are not only a delightful dessert but also a fantastic portable treat for any occasion. They’re crowd-pleasers that come together in a snap, making them ideal for those busy days when you crave homemade goodness without the fuss. Fancy a bite-sized, heartwarming dessert that embodies the spirit of the season? Let’s dive into this recipe and bring the essence of autumn straight to your table!

Why Make Apple Hand Pies?

Convenient Treats: These Apple Hand Pies are the ultimate on-the-go dessert, easy to enjoy without any plates or cutlery.
Baking Made Simple: With just a few steps, you can whip up these delightful pastries, making them perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike.
Seasonal Flavors: The heavenly aroma of spiced apples combined with flaky crust is a celebration of fall, ideal for cozy gatherings or as a sweet snack.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: You can even freeze them for later, ensuring that homemade deliciousness is always at your fingertips! If you’re looking for another fantastic fall recipe, don’t miss this Apple Zucchini Bread!
Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different fruit fillings or spices to suit your taste preferences and impress your friends!

Apple Hand Pie Ingredients

For the Crust
• Pie Crusts – Use two, homemade or store-bought; homemade yields the flakiest results!

For the Filling
• Chopped Apples – 2 cups (240 grams); a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp gives the best flavor balance.
• Granulated Sugar – ¼ cup (50 grams); sweetens the apple mixture to perfection.
• All-Purpose Flour – 2 tablespoons (15 grams); acts as a thickening agent, making the filling just right.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – ½ teaspoon; enhances the overall flavor depth.
• Ground Cinnamon – ½ to 1 teaspoon; adds that warm spice touch—adjust to taste!
• Ground Nutmeg – ⅛ teaspoon; infuses a subtle aromatic flavor that sings fall.
• Butter (optional) – 1 tablespoon, cubed; includes richness to the filling that’s simply divine.

For the Egg Wash
• Large Egg – 1, beaten; gives the pies a beautiful, golden color.
• Milk – 1 tablespoon (15 ml); combines with egg to help the wash adhere beautifully.

For the Top
• Coarse Sugar – For sprinkling on top; adds a delightful sweet crunch to your Apple Hand Pies.

Now you’re all set with the ingredients! Happy baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). While it warms up, gather your baking sheets and line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This simple preparation step ensures your Apple Hand Pies come out perfectly golden and easily release from the tray.

Step 2: Roll Out Crust
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pie crusts until they reach about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter to cut out circles measuring 3.5 inches, aiming for about 18-20 total. Once cut, carefully transfer the circles to a plate and chill them in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to maintain their shape during baking.

Step 3: Make Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped apples with the sugar, all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir everything together until the apples are evenly coated, ensuring that the mixture looks slightly thickened and fragrant. This spiced filling is the heart of your Apple Hand Pies and will create a deliciously sweet bite.

Step 4: Assemble Pies
Take the chilled pie circles from the refrigerator and place about 1-2 tablespoons of the apple filling on one-half of each circle. If desired, dot a few small pieces of the optional butter on top of the filling for extra richness. Fold the other half of the circle over the filling, pressing the edges tightly to seal, and use the beaten egg wash with a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

Step 5: Bake
Once assembled, brush the tops of your Apple Hand Pies with the remaining egg wash for a golden sheen. Sprinkle coarse sugar over them to add a delightful crunch before cutting a few small slits on top for steam to escape. Place the pies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until they are bubbly and beautifully golden brown.

Step 6: Cool & Serve
After baking, remove the hand pies from the oven and allow them to cool for about 5-10 minutes on the baking sheet. This slight cooling period makes them easier to handle while ensuring the filling settles. Serve warm, and enjoy the delightful buttery crust and sweet apple filling of your freshly made Apple Hand Pies!

Expert Tips for Apple Hand Pies

Crust Consistency: Ensure your dough is rolled out to the right thickness—about 1/8-inch. A thin crust helps achieve that perfect flakiness!

Apple Blend: Use a mixture of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination will add depth and balance to your filling.

Seal Well: When crimping the edges, make sure they are tightly sealed to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking. A good seal guarantees tasty Apple Hand Pies!

Prevent Overworking: If using store-bought crusts, avoid overworking the dough to keep the texture tender. Handle it gently for the best results!

Make-Ahead Magic: Freeze your assembled pies before baking for a quick dessert option. Just bake directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

Venting Slits: Don’t forget to cut slits in the tops to allow steam to escape. This prevents soggy bottoms and keeps your Apple Hand Pies perfectly crisp!

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness even on your busiest days! You can prepare the pie crusts and filling up to 24 hours in advance by storing them separately in the refrigerator. Wrap the pie crust securely in plastic wrap to maintain its flakiness and transfer the apple filling to an airtight container to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to assemble, simply roll out the chilled crusts and fill them with the prepped apple mixture. Bake as directed, and you’ll have delicious, warm Apple Hand Pies ready to serve with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Apple Hand Pies

Enjoy these delightful treats on their own or complement them with a few delicious sides for a well-rounded experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy ice cream melts beautifully against the warm hand pies, enhancing the apple filling’s sweetness.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream brings a luscious touch, balancing the spices in your Apple Hand Pies and adding a festive flair.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel adds a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the spiced apples, creating a decadently indulgent experience.
Crispy Leafy Salad: A fresh greens salad with crunchy nuts and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, sweet hand pies.
Hot Apple Cider: Sipping on hot cider warms the soul and complements the cinnamon-spiced flavors, making it a heartwarming fall favorite.
Maple Glazed Pecans: These add a crunchy texture and sweetness, enhancing your hand pies while offering a nutty flavor that rounds out the meal beautifully.
Spiced Tea: A warm cup of chai or spiced tea adds aromatic notes that harmonize with the flavors of the Apple Hand Pies, creating a cozy ambiance.
Cheese Plate: A selection of sharp cheddar or creamy brie can pair surprisingly well, adding depth and a savory contrast to your dessert.

Apple Hand Pies: Endless Customization

Let your creativity shine as you tailor these delectable treats to your taste preferences and dietary needs!

Fruit Fillings: Experiment with peaches or berries for a refreshing twist. You might find a new favorite flavor combination!
Spice Variation: Swap out ground cinnamon for apple pie spice for a different yet equally warm flavor profile. It’s like giving your hand pies a cozy new wardrobe!
Sugar Adjustments: Modify sugar levels depending on the sweetness of your apples to create the perfect balance for your palate.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust to make these hand pies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family. Everyone deserves a taste of fall!
Vegan Option: Replace the butter with a dairy-free margarine and the egg with a flax egg for a vegan delight without sacrificing flavor!
Extra Crunch: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the filling for an added texture that surprises with every bite.
Heat It Up: For a spicy kick, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or jalapeño with the filling—an unexpected but exciting flavor boost!
Ice Cream Sidekick: Serve your warm hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with caramel sauce for an indulgent treat, reminiscent of autumn festivals.

Now that you have some exciting variations in mind, why not try your hand at these flavors while enjoying a classic comfort? For another scrumptious fall-inspired recipe, check out this delightful Apple Zucchini Bread!

How to Store and Freeze Apple Hand Pies

Room Temperature: Keep baked Apple Hand Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This allows their flaky crust to stay crisp!

Fridge: If you want them to last a bit longer, refrigerate the pies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. They may lose a bit of crispness but will still be delicious.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pies before or after baking. Wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, they’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating: To enjoy, simply reheat baked pies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.

Apple Hand Pies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best apples for my hand pies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using a blend of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples. The tartness of Granny Smith complements the sweetness of Honeycrisp, creating a well-balanced filling. Look for firm apples without any dark spots or bruises, which can indicate overripeness.

How should I store my Apple Hand Pies?
To keep your freshly baked Apple Hand Pies at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you prefer a longer storage option, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just keep in mind that refrigeration may soften the crust slightly.

Can I freeze my Apple Hand Pies?
Very! Freezing is a fantastic option for these pies. You can freeze them either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, simply wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap and then again in aluminum foil; they will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just place them directly from the freezer into a preheated oven, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time.

What if my dough is too sticky or dry?
No worries! If your dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little bit of flour on your work surface and hands while rolling it out. This will help prevent sticking. Conversely, if the dough seems too dry and crumbly, you can add a teaspoon of cold water at a time until it comes together nicely. Remember, handling it gently is key!

Are there any dietary considerations for these hand pies?
Definitely! If you’re making these treats for someone with allergies, be mindful of the pie crust ingredients, particularly if you’re using store-bought options as they may contain preservatives or allergens. For gluten-free alternatives, use a gluten-free pie crust mix. Heartier eaters might love added spices or even nut additions—just keep an eye on allergies!

Can I make the filling in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the apple filling ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This way, when you’re ready to make your hand pies, all you have to do is assemble and bake them. It’s a great time-saver for busy fall days!