Homemade apple pie hand pies with flaky crust and fresh apple filling

Why make this recipe

Apple Pie Hand Pies are a wonderful treat that combines the classic flavors of apple pie in a fun, portable form. These hand pies are perfect for sharing at gatherings, enjoying as a snack, or even serving as a dessert. They are easy to make and use simple ingredients, making them a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Plus, who can resist the aroma of sweet apples and warm spices filling the kitchen?

How to make Apple Pie Hand Pies

Ingredients

2 refrigerated pie crusts
3 apples, peeled and finely diced
1/3 cup brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 egg, beaten
1 tbsp coarse sugar

Directions

Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a skillet, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts and cut circles using a round cutter or glass.
Place a spoonful of the apple filling on one half of each circle.
Fold the dough over the filling and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
Cut a small vent on top of each hand pie to allow steam to escape.
Brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until they are deeply golden brown.

How to serve Apple Pie Hand Pies

Serve Apple Pie Hand Pies warm or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, fresh whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. You can also enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.

How to store Apple Pie Hand Pies

To store Apple Pie Hand Pies, let them cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through.

Tips to make Apple Pie Hand Pies

Use a variety of apples for a mix of sweet and tart flavors. Good choices include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji.
Don’t overfill the pies; a spoonful of filling is just right to allow for easy sealing.
If the dough becomes too warm while working, refrigerate it for a few minutes to make it easier to handle.

Variation

You can customize your Apple Pie Hand Pies by adding nuts, raisins, or even a touch of nutmeg for extra flavor. For a fun twist, try using different fruits such as peaches or cherries!

FAQs

Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apple filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before filling the pies.

Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! If you prefer to make your own pie crust, it will work just as well for this recipe.

How do I know when the hand pies are done?
The hand pies should be golden brown on top when they are ready. Check them after 18 minutes to ensure they do not overbake.