ARKEPIN
Cute and Easy Mini Apple Hand Pies for a Fun Treat
Nothing beats the charming simplicity of mini apple hand pies—discover how to make this delightful treat that everyone will love!
What kind of recipe is it?
Mini apple hand pies are delightful, portable desserts that combine the classic taste of apple pie with a convenient, handheld format.
These charming pastries feature a flaky, buttery crust enveloping a sweet and spiced apple filling, making them perfect for snacking or serving at gatherings.
Ideal for both novice and experienced bakers, these hand pies are easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite spices.
They’re perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or as a fun treat for kids and adults alike.
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Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup + 1/4 cup (for filling) |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (1 stick), cold and cubed |
| Ice water | 4-5 tablespoons |
| Granny Smith apples (or your preferred apples) | 3 medium (approximately 4 cups when diced) |
| Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Egg (for egg wash) | 1 large, beaten |
| Optional – Additional sugar (for sprinkling on top) | 1-2 tablespoons |
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Cooking Steps
1. Prepare your mise en place: Gather all ingredients including flour, sugar, salt, butter, ice water, apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and the egg for egg wash.
2. Preheat the oven to 190 °C (375 °F) and position the oven rack in the middle.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine 240 g (2 cups) of all-purpose flour, 50 g (1/4 cup) of granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk until evenly mixed.
4. Add 115 g (1/2 cup, cubed) of cold unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, or when you can no longer see chunks of butter.
5. Gradually add 60–75 ml (4-5 tablespoons) of ice water, 15 ml (1 tablespoon) at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough just comes together. Avoid overworking the dough.
6. Gather the dough into a ball, flatten it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
7. While the dough chills, prepare the apple filling: Peel, core, and dice 3 medium Granny Smith apples (approximately 4 cups).
In a bowl, mix the diced apples with 50 g (1/4 cup) of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 15 ml (1 tablespoon) of lemon juice. Stir until combined and set aside.
8. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 0.3 cm (1/8 inch) thickness.
Use a round cutter to cut out circles approximately 10 cm (4 inches) in diameter. Gather scraps, re-roll, and cut additional circles.
9. Place a heaping tablespoon of the apple filling in the center of each circle.
Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra seal, creating a decorative edge.
10. Transfer the hand pies to a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced apart.
Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a glossy finish. If desired, sprinkle with 15-30 g (1-2 tablespoons) of sugar for extra sweetness.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the hand pies are golden brown and the filling begins to bubble slightly.
The tops should have a light golden color and the aroma of baked apples should fill the kitchen.
12. Remove from the oven and let the hand pies cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
They should feel firm to the touch and have a crispy exterior.
13. Serve warm or at room temperature.
These hand pies are best enjoyed the same day but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Enjoy!
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Variations
- Caramel Apple Hand Pies: Add 100 g (1/2 cup) of caramel sauce to the apple filling for a rich, sweet twist.
- Sweet Potato Hand Pies: Swap out the apples for roasted and mashed sweet potatoes (3 medium potatoes) mixed with 50 g (1/4 cup) of brown sugar and cinnamon for a seasonal variation.
- Vegan Hand Pies: Replace the butter with 115 g (1/2 cup) of coconut oil and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) instead of egg wash for a dairy-free and egg-free option.
- Gluten-Free Hand Pies: Substitute the all-purpose flour with 240 g (2 cups) of a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for structure.
- Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast
Tips on plating and presentation
When serving mini apple hand pies, presentation can elevate the experience and make them even more enticing.
I love using colorful plates or rustic wooden boards to showcase them. A sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance, and a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on the side looks amazing.
Don’t forget fresh apple slices for a pop of color!
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What other dishes can I pair it with?
Elevating your mini apple hand pies on a colorful plate or rustic board is just the beginning.
I love pairing them with a cheese platter, featuring sharp cheddar or creamy Brie, which contrasts beautifully with the sweet apples.
For a savory touch, include roasted nuts or a simple arugula salad.
These combinations create a delightful balance of flavors that everyone will enjoy!
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What drinks can I pair it with?
Since mini apple hand pies have a delightful sweetness, I find that they pair perfectly with a selection of drinks that can complement their flavors.
A warm cup of spiced cider enhances the apple notes beautifully. If you prefer something chill, a crisp, invigorating sparkling water works wonders too.
For a cozy touch, you can’t go wrong with a classic chai latte!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Freeze Leftover Mini Apple Hand Pies?
Absolutely, you can freeze leftover mini apple hand pies! I wrap them in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. When I’m ready to enjoy them, I just reheat in the oven.
How Long Do Mini Apple Hand Pies Stay Fresh?
Mini apple hand pies stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days at room temperature, but I prefer refrigerating them for up to a week to maintain their deliciousness. Just reheat before enjoying!
What Type of Apples Are Best for Baking?
For baking, I love using Granny Smith apples. Their tartness balances sweetness beautifully. Honeycrisp and Braeburn are great too, as they remain firm and add a lovely flavor. Trust me, you’ll enjoy the results!
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
I often make the filling ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It saves time, and the flavors meld beautifully!
Are Mini Apple Hand Pies Gluten-Free?
Yes, mini apple hand pies can be gluten-free! I often use gluten-free pastry dough and enjoy the flavor just as much. It’s a fun twist that still satisfies my cravings for delicious desserts.