Easy Apple Hand Pies

Name: Easy Apple Hand Pies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 pies
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1/4 cup ice water; 3 apples, peeled, cored, and diced; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon butter

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of the season with these delightful Easy Apple Hand Pies. Perfectly flaky crusts encase sweet, spiced apple filling, making them an ideal treat for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home. These portable pies are not only fun to make but also deliciously satisfying, making them a favorite for both kids and adults alike.

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2025-12-11T13:04:27.281Z

These Easy Apple Hand Pies are a delightful way to capture the essence of fall in every bite.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Easy Apple Hand Pies are versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. Whether it's a chilly fall evening or a festive holiday gathering, these hand pies fit right in. Their delightful aroma wafting through the kitchen will have your family and guests eagerly awaiting a taste. Plus, they make excellent party treats and can be served warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for potlucks and picnics.

The portability of these hand pies is another reason they shine in any event setting. They are easy to grab and enjoy, allowing you and your guests to mingle without the need for utensils. This convenience paired with their delicious flavor makes them a go-to choice for any occasion that calls for something sweet and satisfying.

Customizable Flavor Options

One of the joys of making these hand pies is the opportunity for customization. While the classic apple cinnamon flavor is undeniably delicious, feel free to experiment with other fruits like pears, peaches, or berries. You can also add nuts or raisins for additional texture and flavor depth. With slight variations in spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, you can create a filling that reflects your personal taste preferences.

For those who enjoy a bit of zing, consider adding a touch of ginger or cardamom to the apple mixture. You can also drizzle a simple glaze over the baked hand pies for an extra touch of sweetness. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that each batch you create can be a delightful new experience for your palate.

A Fun Activity for the Family

Making Easy Apple Hand Pies is a fantastic way to involve the whole family in the kitchen. The process of preparing the dough and filling is simple enough for children to participate, making it an enjoyable bonding activity. Kids can help by rolling out the dough, spooning in the filling, or pressing down on the pie edges to seal them. It's a great way to teach them cooking basics and create lasting memories together.

Not only will everyone have fun making these delicious treats, but they will also learn valuable skills that can be applied to other recipes in the future. Baking together encourages teamwork and creativity, allowing family members to express themselves while enjoying the process of creating something scrumptious.

Ingredients

For the Pastry

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/4 cup ice water

For the Filling

3 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon butter

Optional: egg wash for brushing on pies

Instructions

Make the Pastry Dough

In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water until dough forms a ball.

Divide dough into two balls, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine apples, sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and butter. Cook until apples are tender, about 5 minutes. Let cool.

Assemble the Hand Pies

Roll out one dough ball on a floured surface. Cut into circles. Place a spoonful of filling in the center, then fold over and seal edges with a fork. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.

Bake the Pies

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place pies on a baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Cool before serving.

Enjoy your warm hand pies!

Storing Leftover Hand Pies

If you manage to have any leftover Easy Apple Hand Pies, storing them is quite simple. Allow the pies to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to two days, making it easy to grab a sweet treat on the go.

For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, where they will last up to a week. To retain their crispy crust, reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving. This will bring back their flaky texture, ensuring they taste freshly baked even after a few days.

Pairing Suggestions

These Easy Apple Hand Pies can be enjoyed on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can enhance your experience. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon complements the warm apple filling perfectly. The creamy texture beautifully balances the spices, making each bite even more delicious.

Alternatively, a warm cup of cider or coffee can make a cozy pairing that transforms your snack or dessert into a delightful experience. These beverages highlight the seasonal flavors and provide a comforting way to enjoy your hand pies during the colder months.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pie crust?

Yes, store-bought crust can be a time-saver.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.