Mini Apple Hand Pies

These Mini Apple Hand Pies are a delightful twist on traditional apple pie, perfect for any gathering or as a cozy treat at home. With their flaky crust and sweet, cinnamon-infused apple filling, these handheld desserts are sure to impress. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, taking less than an hour from start to finish. Whether you’re hosting a fall party or just craving something sweet, these mini pies are the ideal solution!

Why You’ll Love This Mini Apple Hand Pies

This section highlights why you’ll adore making and sharing these mini treats.

• Quick and Easy: With only six ingredients and store-bought dough, you can whip up these pies in no time.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of fuji apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar creates a mouthwatering filling that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treats: Great for parties, picnics, or just a cozy night in—these hand pies fit any occasion.
• Perfectly Portable: Enjoy them on the go! Their small size makes them great for lunchboxes or snacks.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to mix in other fruits or nuts for a unique flavor twist.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Mini Apple Hand Pies, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Saucepan
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: A rolling pin helps flatten the dough evenly for consistent thickness.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning of your pies.
• Parchment paper: This keeps the pies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your delicious Mini Apple Hand Pies:

For the Crust

• 1 box store bought pie dough (containing 2 sheets)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (regular or plant-based)

For the Filling

• 2 1/2 cups finely chopped fuji or honeycrisp apples (about 2 large apples)
• 1/4 cup (50g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1/2 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water)

For the Topping

• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

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How to Make Mini Apple Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Bring your pie dough to room temperature for easier handling.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
– Add the chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
– Cook until the apples are tender.

Step 3: Thicken the Filling

Mix cornstarch with water until smooth.
– Stir this mixture into the cooked apple filling to thicken it.
– Allow it to cool before using.

Step 4: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Roll out your pie dough on a floured surface.
– Cut into apple shapes using a cookie cutter or knife.

Step 6: Assemble the Pies

Place half of the cut shapes on your prepared baking sheet.
– Spoon some cooled filling onto each shape.
– Brush edges with egg wash made from beaten egg.

Step 7: Seal and Prepare for Baking

Top each filled shape with another dough cutout.
– Seal edges by crimping with a fork.
– Brush tops with more egg wash.

Step 8: Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Mix granulated sugar with cinnamon.
– Sprinkle generously over each pie before baking.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 10: Cool Before Serving

Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy your Mini Apple Hand Pies warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Mini Apple Hand Pies

Serving Mini Apple Hand Pies can enhance the experience of this delightful treat. Whether it’s a casual afternoon snack or a festive dessert, these hand pies are versatile and can be paired with various accompaniments.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a rich contrast to the warm, spiced filling of the hand pies.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce brings extra sweetness and an indulgent touch to the crispy exterior of the pies.

With Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream complements the apple flavors while adding a delightful texture to each bite.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Fresh slices of fruit like strawberries or blueberries can brighten up your plate and provide a refreshing balance to the sweetness.

Served in a Dessert Platter

• Arrange Mini Apple Hand Pies on a platter with other desserts for an inviting display at gatherings or parties.

As Part of a Breakfast Spread

• Pair them with coffee or tea for a satisfying breakfast option that feels both special and comforting.

How to Perfect Mini Apple Hand Pies

Creating perfect Mini Apple Hand Pies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Cold Dough: Keeping your pie dough cold helps maintain its flakiness during baking, resulting in a crisp crust.
• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overstuff the hand pies; too much filling can cause them to burst while baking.
• Seal Edges Well: Crimping the edges securely prevents any filling from leaking out, ensuring each bite is filled with flavor.
• Chill Before Baking: Chilling the assembled pies for about 15 minutes before baking can help them hold their shape better.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or allspice for an extra depth of flavor in your apple filling.
• Glaze for Shine: Brushing the tops with egg wash gives your hand pies a beautiful golden color when baked.

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Best Side Dishes for Mini Apple Hand Pies

Mini Apple Hand Pies pair well with several side dishes that complement their sweet, fruity goodness. Here are some great options:

1. Cinnamon Roll Casserole
   A warm cinnamon roll casserole adds comfort and pairs beautifully with the apple flavors.
2. Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
   The savory crunch of Brussels sprouts drizzled with maple syrup provides a unique contrast to the sweetness of the pies.
3. Cheese Platter
   An assortment of cheeses balances sweetness with savory notes, making it an excellent pairing choice.
4. Caramelized Pear Salad
   This salad introduces fresh greens and caramelized pears, offering both texture and vibrant flavors alongside the hand pies.
5. Pumpkin Soup
   A bowl of creamy pumpkin soup can bring warmth and heartiness that complements dessert perfectly.
6. Chai-Spiced Hot Chocolate
   A cozy drink like chai-spiced hot chocolate enhances the fall vibes while keeping things comforting and sweet.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mini Apple Hand Pies can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect your results. Avoiding these will help you create the best pies.

• Using cold dough – Always bring your pie dough to room temperature before rolling. Cold dough can crack and be hard to work with.
• Overfilling – Don’t overfill the pies with apple mixture. Too much filling can cause them to burst during baking.
• Skipping the egg wash – Applying an egg wash gives your hand pies a beautiful golden color and shiny finish. Don’t skip this step!
• Not sealing edges properly – Ensure you crimp the edges well. Poorly sealed pies may leak filling while baking.
• Ignoring cooling time – Letting the pies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes helps set the filling and makes them easier to transfer.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped pies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Bake for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds. Check and heat in additional 10-second intervals as needed.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make gluten-free Mini Apple Hand Pies?

You can use gluten-free pie dough available at most grocery stores. Follow the same instructions as regular dough.

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes! While Fuji and Honeycrisp are great choices, you can also try Granny Smith for a tart flavor or Gala apples for sweetness.

How do I know when my Mini Apple Hand Pies are done?

Look for a golden brown color on top. They typically take about 12-14 minutes in the oven.

Can I prepare Mini Apple Hand Pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them and freeze before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.

Final Thoughts

These Mini Apple Hand Pies are not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize your filling with different fruits or spices based on your preferences. Perfect for any occasion, these handheld treats will surely impress your family and friends!