Flaky Apple Hand Pie

Introduction

Flaky Apple Hand Pies are a delicious and portable dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite. These little pastries are filled with sweet, spiced apples and wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust. Perfect for any occasion, they can be enjoyed alone or shared with friends and family.

Why Make This Recipe

If you’re looking for a treat that’s easy to make and even easier to eat, these hand pies are a great choice. They are versatile, and you can serve them warm from the oven or at room temperature. Plus, they make an excellent dessert for parties, picnics, or just a cozy night in!

How to Make Flaky Apple Hand Pie

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
1/3 cup ice water
2 apples (peeled & diced)
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tbsp milk

Directions:

Make the dough: In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold, cubed butter and mix until crumbly. Slowly add ice water and knead into a dough. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
Prepare the filling: In a pan, cook diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla for about 5 minutes until the apples are soft. Let the mixture cool.
Roll & fill: Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface, cut it into circles, and add a spoonful of the apple filling to each circle. Fold the dough over and seal the edges with a fork.
Bake: Brush the tops with an egg wash made from beaten egg and milk, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Enjoy: Let the hand pies cool slightly before diving in!

How to Serve Flaky Apple Hand Pie

Serve these hand pies warm, dusted with powdered sugar, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They can also be enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful snack.

How to Store Flaky Apple Hand Pie

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; just make sure to wrap them well.

Tips to Make Flaky Apple Hand Pie

Ensure your butter is very cold for a flakier crust.
Do not overwork the dough; handle it gently to keep it tender.
Feel free to adjust the sugar and spices in the filling to suit your taste.

Variation

You can mix in raisins or nuts into the apple filling for extra flavor and texture. If you prefer, you can also use other fruits such as pears or berries in place of apples.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought pie crust to save time, but homemade dough gives a better texture and flavor.

How can I tell when the hand pies are done?

The hand pies are done when they are golden brown on top. You can also check if the fruit filling is bubbling slightly at the edges.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the apple filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you are ready to assemble the hand pies.