These delectable homemade apple hand pies are the perfect marriage of sweet, juicy apples and a flaky, buttery crust, making for a delightful treat that’s sure to impress family and friends. With a hint of cinnamon and a dash of lemon juice, this recipe brings together a comforting, nostalgic flavor that’s just like apple pie but in a portable, hand-held delight. Perfect for parties, picnics, or just a cozy night at home!
Budget Information
This scrumptious apple hand pie recipe costs approximately $10.00 to make, which breaks down to around $1.25 per serving (assuming it serves 8). Each ingredient is just a few bucks, making this a budget-friendly dessert that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
Why This Recipe Works
What’s the secret to pie perfection? It’s all about balancing the flavors and textures! The crispness of the pastry paired with the luscious, spiced apple filling creates a beautiful bite every single time. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! You can easily customize the filling with your favorite fruits or spices, and the hand-held format makes them perfect for any occasion. If you’ve ever found yourself drooling at the bakery window, it’s time to bring that heavenly aroma right into your kitchen!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you need to whip up these amazing hand pies:
- 2 large Cosmic Crisp apples ($3.00) – You can also use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a tart-sweet balance.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice ($0.10) – Fresh lemon adds brightness, but bottled will work in a pinch.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon ($0.10) – A classic spice that brings warmth; feel free to add nutmeg for an extra kick!
- ½ cup sugar ($0.30) – You can adjust to your taste or use coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
- 1 pre-made pie crust, or homemade ($2.50) – Store-bought saves time, but there’s nothing quite like a buttery homemade crust.
- 1 egg, beaten ($0.25) – This creates a beautiful golden-brown finish; use milk for a vegan option.
- 1 tablespoon butter ($0.15) – For a touch of richness; omit if you want to keep it dairy-free.
Feel free to get creative and add your own twist!
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Start by prepping your apples; peel, core, and chop them into small, even pieces for even cooking. Toss the diced apples with lemon juice, sugar, and cinnamon in a mixing bowl. You want those apples to mingle with the flavors and let that sugar work its magic! Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.
Step 2: Meanwhile, roll out your pie crust on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out circles using a large cookie cutter or coffee cup—around 4-5 inches in diameter. You should have about 8 circles to work with.
Step 3: Grab one of those circles and place a spoonful of the apple mixture in the center. Don’t overfill! You want to fold it over without spilling out the delicious goodness.
Step 4: Wet the edges with a little water, fold the circle in half, and crimp the edges with a fork to seal. Make sure they’re tight—nobody wants an explosion of filling in the oven!
Step 5: Hey, let’s make these look beautiful! Brush each sealed pie with your beaten egg for that beautiful golden color and sprinkle a bit of sugar on top for that delightful crunch.
Step 6: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place your hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and your kitchen smells like heaven!
Step 7: Let them cool for a few minutes before indulging. Trust me, the aroma will be intoxicating, but you’ll want to avoid burning your tongue! Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and watch how your loved ones devour every last crumb!
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 230
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Total Fats: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 150mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (which, let’s be honest, might not happen!), allow the apple hand pies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They will keep well at room temperature for about 2 days. For longer storage, pop them in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, and they’ll taste just as fresh as the first day!
Serving Suggestions
These apple hand pies are delicious on their own, but they’re even better with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. Drizzle them with caramel sauce for that extra oomph! They make a perfect dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy movie night. Trust me; you’ll be the star of the show when you bring these to the table!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Don’t rush your pie-making process! Take your time when sealing those edges. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in some dried cranberries or walnuts for added texture. And always, always let your pies cool before digging in to avoid that scalding hot filling—it’s a tempting trap! Happy baking!
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
A: Absolutely! Pears, peaches, or cherries would all work wonderfully—just adjust the sugar accordingly.
Q: Do I have to use store-bought pie crust?
A: Nope! Making your own pie crust is a fun project and adds a personal touch. Check out your favorite recipe online!
Q: How can I make these vegan?
A: Substitute the egg wash with a mixture of almond milk and cornstarch, and skip the butter in the filling. They’ll still be delicious!
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare them and either bake later or freeze them unbaked. Just add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking from frozen.
Q: Can I reheat them in the microwave?
A: You can, but it’ll lose the flaky texture. If you must, reheat them in short intervals to avoid the filling getting too gooey. Best option is always the oven!
