AMERICAN APPLE HAND PIES
American Apple Hand Pies are flaky, handheld pastries filled with sweet cinnamon-spiced apples. Perfect for on-the-go treats, picnics, or holiday desserts, these pies combine classic apple pie flavors in a convenient, portable form.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 3 cups peeled diced apples (Granny Smith or your choice)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 6 –8 tablespoons ice water
For Assembly:
- 1 large egg beaten (for egg wash)
- Sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, whisk flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until dough comes together. Divide dough in half, shape into discs, wrap, and chill for 1 hour.
Prepare Filling:
- In a saucepan, combine apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and flour. Cook over medium heat, stirring until apples soften and mixture thickens. Cool completely.
Assemble Pies:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out dough on a floured surface to ¼-inch thickness. Cut into 4-inch circles. Place 2 tablespoons filling on each circle, fold dough over to form a half-moon, and seal edges with a fork.
Bake:
- Place pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle sugar on top. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool & Serve:
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Dough can be made and chilled up to 2 days in advance.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked pies for up to 1 month; bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
- Flavor Twist: Add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling for texture.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter and milk substitutes.