Best Apple Hand Pies for Cozy Fall Treats

If you’re craving a delightful autumn treat, these **Apple Hand Pies** are exactly what you need. Bursting with tender apples and spiced perfectly with cinnamon, these handheld pastries bring all the cozy feelings of fall in every bite. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly afternoon or serving them in a festive gathering, Apple Hand Pies are simple to make and irresistibly delicious, making them a perfect recipe to add to your seasonal favorites.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect portion size: Each Apple Hand Pie is a convenient, individual treat ideal for sharing or enjoying solo without any mess.
• Irresistible flavor combo: Sweet apples with warm cinnamon deliver classic fall comfort in every bite.
• Simple preparation: With a few basic ingredients, you can whip these up quickly even on a busy day.
• Versatile dessert: Serve them fresh out of the oven or make them ahead to enjoy later, perfect for any occasion.
• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing: These hand pies are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All it takes are a handful of simple pantry staples to create these delightful Apple Hand Pies. Each ingredient plays a key role, whether it’s adding sweetness, texture, or that comforting spice that screams fall.

• Pie crust: Use store-bought or homemade pie crust for a flaky, golden exterior that holds the filling perfectly.
• Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work best for a balance of tartness and sweetness.
• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the apple filling.
• Sugar: A mix of white and brown sugar creates a rich caramelized flavor in the filling.
• Butter: Small pieces folded into the filling help it stay moist and rich while baking.
• Lemon juice: A splash brightens the apples and prevents browning.
• Egg wash: Made from a beaten egg, this gives the pies a shiny golden finish.
• Optional spices: Nutmeg or allspice can deepen the flavor for extra coziness.

Variations for Apple Hand Pies

One of the best things about Apple Hand Pies is how easy it is to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you want to add a twist or keep it classic, there’s a perfect variation for everyone.

• Vegan version: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use a dairy-free pie crust.
• Gluten-free crust: Use a pre-made gluten-free pie crust or make your own blend for safe enjoyment.
• Spiced up: Add a pinch of ginger or cloves for a more complex spice flavor.
• Nutty addition: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch and richness.
• Caramel drizzle: Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.

How to Make Apple Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare the apples

First, peel, core, and dice your apples into small pieces so they cook evenly. Toss them in a bowl with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and a pinch of optional spices to coat every morsel with flavor and prevent discoloration.

Step 2: Roll out the pie crust

On a floured surface, roll the pie crust into a thin sheet. Use a round or square cutter to make uniform shapes that will form the bases of your hand pies.

Step 3: Assemble the pies

Place a spoonful of the apple filling in the center of each dough piece, adding a small pat of butter on top to keep the filling juicy. Brush the edges with egg wash, then cover with another piece of dough and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.

Step 4: Bake to golden perfection

Arrange the prepared pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with more egg wash to encourage a shiny, golden crust. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until puffed and beautifully golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and enjoy

Let the Apple Hand Pies cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before biting in—this allows the filling to set slightly and prevents burns while maintaining that warm, melty center.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Hand Pies

• Choose the right apples: Tart varieties hold their shape and add brightness without being too sweet.
• Don’t overfill: Too much filling can make sealing difficult and cause leaks during baking.
• Chill the dough: Keep pie crust cold until assembling to maintain flakiness and ease of handling.
• Use egg wash generously: It adds color and helps the edges stick together firmly.
• Let pies cool properly: This prevents messy fillings and improves flavor development.

How to Serve Apple Hand Pies

Garnishes

Sprinkle powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness and a pretty finish. Fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side always elevates the experience.

Side Dishes

Pair with a cup of hot apple cider or warm chai tea to complement the spice and round out your cozy fall snack or dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the pies in small baskets lined with linen for a rustic look or stack them on a tiered dessert stand for an elegant afternoon tea or holiday brunch presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Apple Hand Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months—you can bake from frozen or thaw before reheating.

Reheating

Warm pies in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave for about 30 seconds to enjoy a fresh-baked taste anytime.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Absolutely! Pears, peaches, or mixed berries make fantastic fillings. Just be mindful of moisture content and adjust sugar accordingly.

Is it okay to use pre-made pie crust?

Yes, store-bought pie crust works wonderfully and saves time, but homemade crust will give you that extra flaky touch.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Chilling the dough before baking and ensuring the filling isn’t too wet helps keep the crust crisp and flaky.

Can Apple Hand Pies be frozen before baking?

Yes, you can assemble the pies and freeze them raw; bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover pies?

The oven is ideal for reheating to keep the crust crisp; microwaving can be quicker but may soften the crust.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Hand Pies are a heartwarming classic that you’ll want to bake all fall long. Their perfect balance of sweet apples, cinnamon, and flaky crust make every bite pure joy. Don’t wait for the perfect occasion—grab your ingredients, try the recipe, and let these cozy treats fill your home with the scent of autumn happiness.

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