There’s something magical about the aroma of warm apple hand pies wafting through your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather ‘round like moths to a flame. These delightful, flaky pastries filled with sweet, spiced apples are the kind of treat that sends you back to childhood memories of fall festivals and cozy family gatherings. Imagine biting into a golden, buttery crust, where the sweet apple filling bursts forth like a joyful reunion.

Now, let me take you on a stroll down memory lane. I still remember the first time I attempted to make apple hand pies. Picture this: my kitchen turned into a flour-covered battlefield, and my dog eyeing me suspiciously as if I’d lost my mind. But when those pies came out of the oven, golden and bubbling with juicy goodness, all was forgiven. They vanished faster than my New Year’s resolutions!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These apple hand pies are easy to make and perfect for any occasion
- The flavor is a delightful blend of sweet and tart apples with warm spices
- Visually stunning with their golden crusts, they’ll impress guests at any gathering
- Enjoy them warm or cold for an irresistible treat anytime!
I served these delicious morsels at a family gathering once, and let me tell you—the kids were practically chasing each other around the kitchen, clamoring for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for the best flavor balance.
-
Pie Crust: You can use store-bought for convenience or make your own if you’re feeling ambitious!
-
Cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and depth; fresh ground is preferable for maximum flavor.
-
Sugar: Granulated sugar works well; brown sugar can add extra moisture and caramel notes.
-
Lemon Juice: A splash brightens up the apple filling and prevents browning.
-
Egg Wash: A simple mixture of egg and water gives your hand pies that beautiful golden color.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by peeling and coring your apples before slicing them into thin pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes for easier filling.
Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine your sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes to let those flavors meld beautifully.
Roll Out the Dough: If using homemade pie crust, roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out circles using a large cookie cutter or bowl—aim for about 4-5 inches in diameter.
Fill the Pies: Place a generous scoop of the apple mixture in the center of each circle. Don’t overfill or you’ll end up with an explosion—no one likes pie shrapnel!
Seal Them Up: Fold each dough circle over to create half-moons. Press down firmly on the edges with a fork to seal them tight—like securing your secrets from prying eyes.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange your hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them with egg wash for that glossy finish before popping them in for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
And there you have it! These delightful apple hand pies will fill your home with warmth and delicious aromas that beckon everyone from all corners of the house! Enjoy!
Key Tips for Apple Hand Pies
- Use fresh apples for a burst of flavor; avoid mushy ones
- Always chill the dough before rolling to ensure flaky layers
- Brush the tops with egg wash for that golden, crispy finish every pie craves
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Chill your dough while you prep the filling; then roll it out just before assembly. Bake until golden brown and let them cool slightly before indulging in that deliciousness.
Add Your Touch
Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy twist. Consider adding nuts or raisins to enhance flavor and texture. Don’t hesitate to drizzle icing on top for extra sweetness.
Storing & Reheating
Store your apple hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature. For reheating, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Roll out dough on a floured surface to prevent sticking, ensuring even shapes and sizes
- Always vent the tops of your pies to allow steam to escape, keeping fillings intact
- Keep an eye on baking time; overbaking can lead to tough crusts
The first time I made these apple hand pies, my friends devoured them in seconds! Their delighted faces made my kitchen feel like a bustling bakery filled with warmth and love.
FAQ
Can I use different fruits in apple hand pies?
Absolutely! Pears, berries, or peaches work wonderfully as alternatives.
How do I know when the pies are done?
Look for a golden-brown crust and bubbling filling peeking through the vents.
Can I freeze apple hand pies for later?
Yes! Freeze unbaked pies and bake directly from frozen when ready to enjoy.
Warm Apple Hand Pies
Warm apple hand pies are a delightful treat that evoke nostalgic memories of cozy gatherings and fall festivities. These flaky pastries, filled with a sweet and spiced apple filling, are perfect for sharing with family and friends. Imagine taking a bite of the golden crust, revealing a burst of juicy apples inside. Whether served warm or cold, these hand pies are sure to impress at any occasion.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced apples (mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Peel, core, and slice apples; mix in a bowl with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
- Roll out the pie crust on a floured surface; cut into circles about 4-5 inches in diameter.
- Place a scoop of the apple mixture in the center of each circle; fold in half and seal the edges with a fork.
- Brush tops with egg wash; bake on parchment-lined sheet for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 60mg