Irresistible Apple Hand Pies: 7 Simple Steps to Delight

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Apple Hand Pies are a delightful treat that combines the warmth of baked apples with a flaky pastry crust. These delicious pastries are perfect for cozy gatherings or a quick dessert at home. With their sweet apple filling and easy preparation, you’ll find yourself making them often. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that showcases the best of homemade apple hand pies!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Hand Pies

These Apple Hand Pies are not just any dessert; they represent comfort and nostalgia. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love them:

Quick and easy to prepare using easy apple hand pie recipe.
Customizable with your favorite apple varieties, making them unique.
Perfect for fall gatherings or any occasion.
Serve them warm for a delightful experience.
Great for meal prep; they freeze well.
Can be made gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.

These sweet apple hand pies are not only delicious but also fit into a vegetarian diet, making them a versatile dessert option.

Ingredients for Apple Hand Pies

Gather these items:

1 sheet Puff Pastry (Defrosted)
2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Can substitute with coconut oil)
4 cups Granny Smith Apples (Peeled, cored, and chopped)
1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Can substitute with white sugar)
2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Can use arrowroot or tapioca starch)
1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Optional nutmeg can be added)
1/4 teaspoon Salt (Enhances sweetness)
1 large Egg (For wash)
1 tablespoon Water
1 cup Powdered Sugar
2 tablespoons Heavy Cream (Or use water)

How to Make Apple Hand Pies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Prepare the apples by peeling, coring, and chopping them into 1/3” wide by 1-2” long pieces. Toss with brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and salt.
Step 3: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan and add the seasoned apples. Cook for 5 minutes until thick.
Step 4: Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into 4 squares. Place a dollop of filling in each square.
Step 5: Make an egg wash by whisking together the egg and water. Brush around edges of the pastry.
Step 6: Fold the pastry over the filling, crimp edges with a fork to seal.
Step 7: Brush tops with egg wash and bake for 18-20 minutes until golden.
Step 8: Cool on a wire rack and drizzle with glaze made from powdered sugar and cream.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Apple Hand Pies

Keep these in mind:

Use cold butter for a flakier crust.
Let the filling cool before assembling to prevent sogginess.
Experiment with spices like nutmeg or allspice for added flavor.
Brush with extra egg wash for a shiny finish.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Hand Pies

These hand pies can be served in several delightful ways:

Warm from the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Drizzled with caramel sauce for a rich dessert.
As part of a dessert platter featuring other individual apple desserts.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Hand Pies

To store your apple-filled pastries, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure they’re tightly wrapped!

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Hand Pies

What’s the secret to perfect Apple Hand Pies?

The secret lies in using fresh, tart apples like Granny Smith and ensuring your pastry is well-chilled before baking. This helps achieve the perfect flaky texture.

Can I make Apple Hand Pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and assemble the pies just before baking. This makes them a perfect option for quick desserts.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Apple Hand Pies?

To avoid soggy pies, ensure your apple filling isn’t too wet. Drain any excess liquid and avoid overfilling the pastries. Proper sealing is also crucial.

Variations of Apple Hand Pies You Can Try

Here are some creative twists to the traditional recipe:

Use a mix of apples, like Fuji and Honeycrisp, for a sweeter flavor.
Try adding dried cranberries or raisins for extra texture and sweetness.
Make a savory version by adding cheese and spices to the apple filling.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free puff pastry.

Enjoy these delicious apple hand pie toppings and variations to customize your dessert experience. With Apple Hand Pies, every bite is a taste of warmth and sweetness, making them a go-to dessert for any occasion!