If you're craving a warm, flaky treat, cinnamon apple hand pies are the answer. These easy-to-make desserts pack the sweet taste of juicy apples and a hint of spice in every bite. Today, I’ll share the essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips you need for perfect hand pies every time. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these delicious treats that are sure to delight!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The tartness of the apples combined with warm cinnamon creates a comforting and irresistible flavor.
- Easy to Make: Using store-bought pie crusts makes this recipe quick and accessible, perfect for a last-minute dessert.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These hand pies are great for parties, holidays, or just a cozy night in with family.
- Customizable Filling: Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or swap in different fruits for a unique twist on the classic hand pie.
Ingredients
List of Essential Ingredients
- Apples and their types: Use 2 large apples. Granny Smith offers tartness, while Honeycrisp adds sweetness. Both types work well for hand pies.
- Sweeteners and spices: Add 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. The sugar balances the tart apples, and cinnamon gives a warm flavor.
- Pie crust options: I recommend using store-bought pie crusts. They save time and ensure a flaky texture. Each package has two crusts, enough for about 6-8 hand pies.
Optional Toppings and Additions
- Egg wash ingredients: Use 1 beaten egg for the egg wash. This gives the pies a golden color when baked.
- Decoration ideas: Sprinkle extra sugar and cinnamon on top before baking. You can also dust with powdered sugar after baking for a nice finish.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Cooking utensils: Grab a medium saucepan for cooking the apple filling. You’ll also need a mixing spoon and a round cutter for shaping the pies.
- Baking equipment: Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps the pies not stick. You'll also need a fork for sealing the edges of the pies.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will give the hand pies a nice, golden crust. While the oven warms up, grab a baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper. This will help keep the pies from sticking.
Cooking the Apple Filling
To make the filling, take a medium saucepan and melt one tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced apples to the pan. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they soften just a bit.
Next, add flavor. Pour in one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, a quarter cup of granulated sugar, one teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and one teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Stir this mixture well. Then, sprinkle in one tablespoon of all-purpose flour to help thicken the filling. Cook this for an extra 2 to 3 minutes, stirring until it thickens. Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
Assembling the Hand Pies
Now it’s time to assemble! On a lightly floured surface, roll out your store-bought pie crusts. Use a round cutter to cut circles that are about 4 to 5 inches in diameter. You should get around 6 to 8 circles from the two crusts.
For each circle, take about one tablespoon of the cooled apple filling. Place it right in the center. Next, fold the crust over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal. To add a fun touch, use a fork to crimp the edges.
Baking and Serving
Before baking, prepare an egg wash. Beat one egg in a small bowl and brush it generously over the tops of the hand pies. For a sweet finish, sprinkle a mix of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon on top.
Place the prepared hand pies on your lined baking sheet. Bake them for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when they turn golden brown.
After baking, let the hand pies cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm for a delightful treat! Consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for extra enjoyment.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips for Perfect Hand Pies
To ensure a flaky crust, keep your pie crust cold. Chilled dough bakes better and gives a nice rise. Roll out the crust on a floured surface to avoid sticking. Use light pressure, and don’t overwork the dough. This helps keep it flaky.
Preventing filling leaks is key for neat hand pies. After adding the apple filling, press the edges firmly to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges. This not only seals the pies but also adds a pretty touch. Make a small slit on top to let steam escape. This keeps the filling inside.
Cooling and Storing Tips
For best results, cool your hand pies on a wire rack. This allows air to circulate and prevents sogginess. Let them cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This gives the filling time to set.
For storage, place any leftovers in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. To keep them crispy, reheat in the oven instead of the microwave. Bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Cinnamon apple hand pies taste great on their own, but you can add more fun. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess pairs well with the warm filling. You can also drizzle caramel sauce for extra sweetness. Dust with powdered sugar for a lovely finish.
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor and texture, opt for tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet ones like Honeycrisp. A mix can also add depth to your filling.
- Prevent Soggy Crusts: Ensure your apple filling cools to room temperature before assembling the hand pies. This helps maintain a flaky crust.
- Extra Crunch: For added texture, sprinkle some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the apple filling before sealing the pies.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling and assemble the hand pies ahead of time. Just refrigerate them for up to a day before baking for a quick dessert option.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the filling to make these hand pies your own. Try using different fruits like peaches, cherries, or berries. Each fruit brings its own taste and sweetness. Mix and match to create a unique flavor. You can also add spices like nutmeg or ginger. These spices give extra warmth and depth to your pies. A hint of cardamom can also make them special.
Dietary Modifications
If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free pie crusts. Many brands offer great alternatives. You can also make the filling without flour. It will still taste delicious! For vegan adaptations, swap butter for coconut oil. Use a plant-based milk for the egg wash. These changes make the hand pies suitable for everyone.
Mini and Large Hand Pies
You can make these hand pies any size you like. For mini hand pies, cut smaller circles, about 3 inches wide. They bake faster, so check them around 15 minutes. For larger hand pies, use circles that are 6 inches wide. They may take up to 30 minutes to bake. Just watch for a golden color to know they’re done.
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To keep your Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies fresh, store them in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This will prevent them from drying out. Hand pies stay good for up to three days in the fridge. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is the best option.
Long-term Storage
For long-term storage, you can freeze your hand pies. First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each pie in plastic wrap. After that, place them in a freezer bag or container. This method helps to keep them fresh. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips
When it comes time to enjoy your hand pies again, reheating is key. You have two options: the oven or the microwave.
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the hand pies on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This will make them crispy again.
- Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, use the microwave. Heat each pie for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. This method is quick but may make the crust a bit soft.
Choose the method that fits your time and craving!
FAQs
Common Questions Regarding the Recipe
Can I use frozen apples? Yes, you can use frozen apples. Just make sure to thaw them first. Drain any extra liquid to keep your filling from being too watery.
How do I make the crust from scratch? To make crust from scratch, mix 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Cut in 1 cup of cold butter until it looks like crumbs. Add 6-8 tablespoons of ice water. Mix until a dough forms. Chill for at least 30 minutes before using.
Troubleshooting Issues
What to do if the filling leaks? If the filling leaks, it often means you overfilled the pies. Next time, use only one tablespoon of filling. Press the edges firmly to seal them well.
How to fix an overly dry pie crust? If your crust is too dry, it may need more moisture. Add a little cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until it holds together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
General Inquiries
Can I make the filling ahead of time? Yes, you can make the filling ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just let it cool before chilling.
How long do the hand pies last after baking? The hand pies last about 2-3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.
You learned how to make tasty apple hand pies step by step. We discussed the best ingredients, tools, techniques, and storage tips. Remember, you can add your twist with different fruits and toppings. Don’t forget to check for leaks and keep your crust flaky. With these insights, you can create delicious hand pies that impress. Enjoy your baking adventure!
