There’s something magical about fall — the cool breezes, rustling leaves, and the delightful aroma of fresh baked goods wafting through the air. One of the best ways to embrace this enchanting season is with a simple yet scrumptious dessert: Apple Hand Pies! 

These charming handheld pies combine the tartness of Granny Smith apples with a buttery puff pastry, reminiscent of classic fast-food apple pies but with a homemade touch. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or a la mode with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, these are bound to be a hit!

Why You Will Love This Recipe:

• Easy to Make: With store-bought puff pastry, these hand pies are a breeze to whip up.
• All-American Dessert: Apple pie is a beloved classic. These hand pies allow you to enjoy this tradition any time of year.
• Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults rave about these little treats, making them perfect for any gathering.
• Cozy Comfort Food: Warm apple filling paired with ice cream is the perfect cozy dessert for chilly fall evenings.

Everything You Need For Apple Hand Pies:

• Granny Smith Apples: Tart and perfect for baking, they hold their shape beautifully.
• Dark Brown Sugar: For that deep, rich sweetness. Light brown sugar works as a substitute.
• Ground Cinnamon: A key ingredient for that warm, fall flavor.
• Lemon Juice/Zest: Brightens and balances the sweetness.
• Puff Pastry Dough: The flaky goodness that makes these pies extra special.
• Eggs: For the egg wash to create that golden finish.
• Cinnamon Sugar: A delightful sprinkle for extra sweetness.
• Butter: Adds richness to the filling.
• Vanilla Extract: For that hint of aromatic sweetness.
• Cornstarch: To thicken the apple filling.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A must-have accompaniment!

How To Make Your Hand Pies Step by Step:

1. Prepare the Apples:

Carefully peel and dice the Granny Smith apples into small, bite-sized chunks. This ensures they cook evenly and fit perfectly into your pastry!

2. Cook the Apple Pie Filling:

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, toss in your diced apples, coating them thoroughly in the buttery goodness. Stir in dark brown sugar and ground cinnamon, mixing well for about 5 minutes. Add the lemon juice, zest, and vanilla extract, giving it another stir. Next, incorporate the cornstarch slurry to thicken the mixture. Allow it to cook for an additional 3 minutes, then remove it from the heat and let it cool.

3. Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature when your pies are ready to bake.

4. Prepare the Puff Pastry:

Roll out one sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface, then cut it into eight equal squares using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.

5. Assemble the Pies:

Take 1-2 tablespoons of your cooled apple filling and place it in the center of each puff pastry square. Fold the pastry over the filling to create a rectangle. Using a fork, press the edges to seal the pie securely. Don’t forget to cut three small slits on the top to allow steam to escape!

6. Finishing Touch:

Brush the tops of each pie with a light egg wash, ensuring an even coverage for that perfect golden crust.

7. Bake:

Place the assembled hand pies onto a baking sheet. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown and are crisp to the touch.

8. Cool & Serve:

Once they’re out of the oven, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top while they’re still warm. Allow them to cool slightly before serving. They are exquisite when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Recipe Tips and Tricks:

• Use Chilled Puff Pastry: Always keep your puff pastry chilled until you are ready to use it to maintain its flakiness!
• Cut the Apples into Small Pieces: This helps them cook evenly, preventing breakage during assembly.
• Don’t Overfill: Less is more! Avoid filling your pies too much to prevent leakage while baking.
• Seal Edges Well: Press down firmly with a fork to ensure each pie is sealed tight, keeping that delicious filling where it belongs.

Storage and Reheating

These hand pies are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven, air fryer, or microwave for a quick treat any time you crave a bit of cozy goodness.

Frequently Asked Questions