Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey that will transform your kitchen into a bakery of dreams! These Fresh Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies are not just a dessert – they're a portable slice of pure happiness that combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples with a perfectly flaky, golden crust. Whether you're looking to impress your family, wow your friends, or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary, these hand pies are about to become your new culinary obsession!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 pies
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4-5 tbsp cold water
- 3 cups apples, peeled and diced
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut chilled butter into small cubes and work into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together and forms a cohesive ball. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the butter to firm up.
- While the dough chills, prepare the apple filling. Peel and dice apples into small, uniform cubes. Toss the apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice in a medium bowl, ensuring the apples are evenly coated.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a 4-inch round cookie cutter or glass to cut out circles.
- Place a small spoonful of apple filling in the center of each dough circle, being careful not to overfill.
- Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, and use a fork to crimp and seal the edges completely. Cut small vents on top of each pie to allow steam to escape.
- Brush each hand pie with beaten egg wash, which will help create a golden, shiny crust.
- Arrange the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each pie.
- Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before serving. The filling will be extremely hot, so allow time for cooling.
Tips
- Keep your ingredients cold: The secret to a flaky, tender crust is using chilled butter and cold water. Pop your butter in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before starting.
- Don't overfill: Resist the temptation to stuff too much apple filling into each pie. Overfilling can cause the pies to burst during baking.
- Crimp carefully: Use a fork to create a tight seal around the edges of your hand pies to prevent the filling from leaking.
- Egg wash magic: The beaten egg wash is crucial for that beautiful golden-brown finish. Don't skip this step!
- Let them rest: Allow the pies to cool for at least 10-15 minutes after baking. The filling will be extremely hot and needs time to set.
- Make ahead tip: You can prepare the dough and filling in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before assembling and baking.
- Storage hack: These hand pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or frozen for up to a month.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 45mg
