If you love warm, sweet treats, you’ll adore these Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies! They’re easy to make and packed with flavor. In just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a crispy crust filled with juicy apples. Perfect for a special dessert or a snack, these hand pies will impress everyone. Let’s dive into this tasty and simple recipe that brings the taste of fall to your kitchen anytime!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Aromatic Delight: The combination of warm cinnamon and sweet apples creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen, making it impossible to resist.
- Quick and Easy: Using refrigerated pie crusts and an air fryer means you can whip up these delicious hand pies in no time, perfect for a last-minute dessert.
- Portable Treat: These hand pies are easy to hold and eat on the go, making them a perfect snack for picnics, car rides, or lunchboxes.
- Customizable Filling: While apple is a classic choice, you can easily switch up the filling with other fruits or spices to suit your taste and seasonal ingredients.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 package (1 lb) refrigerated pie crusts (contains 2 crusts)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
To start, choose two large apples. I like using Granny Smith for their tartness. Peel, core, and dice them into small pieces. A uniform cut helps them cook evenly. Drizzle the diced apples with lemon juice. This keeps them fresh and bright.
Next, gather your dry ingredients. You will need ground cinnamon for warmth, light brown sugar for sweetness, and cornstarch to thicken the filling. Mix these dry ingredients with the apples in a bowl. Letting them sit for about ten minutes helps the flavors blend.
For the crust, grab a package of refrigerated pie crusts. You will use both crusts to make about 8 to 10 hand pies. Finally, have an egg ready for the wash. This gives the pies a lovely golden color. Don’t forget powdered sugar for a sweet dusting before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by setting your air fryer to preheat at 350°F (180°C). This step is key to cooking the hand pies evenly.
Prepare the Apple Filling
In a medium bowl, mix the diced apples with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 cup of light brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Stir the mixture well until all the apples are coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors blend nicely.
Prepare the Pie Crusts
On a lightly floured surface, roll out each pie crust. You want them flat and easy to handle. Use a circular cutter or a small bowl to cut out circles about 4-5 inches wide. You should get 8-10 circles from two pie crusts.
Assemble the Hand Pies
Take one circle of pie crust. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the apple filling onto one half of the circle. Leave a border of about 1/2 inch around the edge to help seal the pie.
Seal the Pies
Fold the other half of the dough over the filling. This will create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together to seal them well. For extra flair, use a fork to crimp the edges. This also helps keep the filling inside.
Brush with Egg Wash
Before cooking, brush the tops of each hand pie with the beaten egg. This will give them a lovely golden color when they cook.
Air Fry the Hand Pies
Place the hand pies in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure to leave space between each one for even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
Cooking Time & Serving
Air fry the hand pies for about 10-12 minutes. They should be puffed up, golden brown, and crispy. Watch them closely at the end to avoid over-browning. After cooking, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes. Dust them lightly with powdered sugar just before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Apple Filling
To make a great apple filling, choose firm apples. I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Peel, core, and dice them into small pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Add lemon juice to keep them fresh and bright. Mix in cinnamon and brown sugar for flavor. The cornstarch thickens the filling and keeps it from being runny. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This time helps the apples soak up the spices.
Achieving the Ideal Crispness
For a crispy crust, keep your air fryer at 350°F. Preheat it before cooking. Rolling out the pie crusts thin helps too. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick. When you brush the tops with egg wash, it gives a lovely golden color. Make sure the hand pies are not too close in the basket. This allows hot air to circulate and crisps them up nicely. Cook them for 10-12 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
How to Prevent Filling Leakage
To stop the filling from leaking, don’t overfill the hand pies. Use about 1 tablespoon of filling per pie. Leave a half-inch border around the edges. When sealing, press firmly but gently. Crimping the edges with a fork adds extra security. If you see any cracks, use a bit of water to seal them. This will help keep all that yummy apple filling inside during cooking.
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor and texture, opt for tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold up well during cooking and complement the sweetness of the sugar.
- Prevent Soggy Crusts: Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the apple filling before assembling your hand pies. This helps keep the crust crispy and prevents sogginess.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or ginger to the apple filling for a unique flavor twist. A pinch of vanilla extract can also enhance the overall taste.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: For an extra indulgent treat, serve your hand pies with a side of caramel sauce or vanilla yogurt for dipping. This adds a delicious element to your dessert.
Variations
Different Fruit Filling Options
You can easily swap apples for other fruits. Try pears for a softer bite. Cherries add a sweet-tart flavor. Berries, like blueberries or raspberries, give a burst of color. You can mix fruits for a fun twist. Just keep the sugar level in mind for each fruit. Adjust as needed!
Gluten-Free Pie Crust Substitutes
For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or oat flour. You can buy ready-made gluten-free pie crusts too. Just check the package for size and baking times. If you make your own, mix flour with cold butter. Add a bit of ice water until it forms a dough. Chill before rolling out for best results.
Flavor Enhancements & Add-ins
Add some zest to your filling! A teaspoon of vanilla extract enhances sweetness. For a spicier kick, mix in a dash of nutmeg. You can also fold in raisins or chopped nuts for extra texture. Drizzle some caramel sauce on top after cooking for a sweet touch. These small changes can really elevate your hand pies!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Hand Pies
Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container. Make sure they are cool first. This helps keep them fresh. You can keep them at room temperature for up to two days. If you have extra pies, store them in the fridge for up to a week.
Reheating for Optimal Freshness
To reheat, use your air fryer for best results. Set it to 350°F (180°C). Place the hand pies in the basket for about 5 minutes. This makes them crispy again. You can also use an oven at 350°F, but it may take longer.
Freezing Options for Future Enjoyment
If you want to freeze the hand pies, wrap them well. Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to cover each pie. Then, place them in a freezer bag. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat them in the air fryer.
FAQs
Can I use frozen pie crusts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pie crusts. Just thaw them first. Follow the same steps for rolling and cutting. Frozen crusts work well and save time.
What can I serve with Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies?
These hand pies pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also serve them with whipped cream or caramel sauce. A sprinkle of cinnamon adds a nice touch too.
How can I make these vegan-friendly?
To make vegan hand pies, swap the egg wash for plant milk. Use a vegan pie crust instead of a regular one. The filling can stay the same with apples and spices.
What is the best air fryer for making hand pies?
A basket-style air fryer is great for hand pies. It allows even air flow and good crispness. Look for one with adjustable temperature settings for best results.
How do I know when the hand pies are done cooking?
Check the color of the hand pies. They should be golden brown and puffed up. If they look crispy and smell amazing, they are ready to eat!
Making Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies is fun and easy. You learned about all the ingredients needed, how to prepare the filling, and the crusts. I shared tips for perfecting the filling and achieving crispness. You also saw ways to store and reheat these tasty treats.
With these steps and ideas, you can enjoy warm, delicious hand pies anytime. Try different fruits and crusts for variety. Enjoy your baking adventure with these tasty treat
