Mini Apple Hand Pies

These delightful Mini Apple Hand Pies are a must-try for anyone who loves baking. With their spiced apple filling and buttery crust, they offer a perfect combination of flavors that make them ideal for fall gatherings, lunchboxes, or cozy weekend treats. Shaped like little apples and topped with a golden lattice crust, these hand pies not only taste amazing but also look incredibly cute. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-follow recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: These Mini Apple Hand Pies come together easily, making them perfect for busy days.
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy them as a dessert or snack. They fit any occasion!
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Get the kids involved in shaping the pies—they’ll have a blast!
• Perfectly Portable: Great for lunchboxes or picnics; they’re easy to take on the go.
• Irresistible Aroma: The smell of baking apples and cinnamon will fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Mini Apple Hand Pies, you’ll need some essential tools to simplify the process. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in achieving delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Apple-shaped cookie cutter
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Baking tray
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Ensures even thickness of the dough for a perfectly baked crust.
• Apple-shaped cookie cutter: Creates adorable shapes that enhance presentation.
• Mixing bowls: Helps keep your ingredients organized during preparation.
• Baking tray: Provides a stable surface for baking your hand pies evenly.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup icing sugar
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 2 teaspoons cold milk
• 1 large egg

For the filling:

• 2 apples, peeled and chopped into small cubes
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Mini Apple Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a small bowl, toss the chopped apples with lemon juice.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the apples and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in sugar and cinnamon, then continue cooking for another 5–7 minutes until the apples are tender.
4. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Crust

1. In a large bowl, sift together the flour and icing sugar.
2. Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
3. Add the egg and milk, mixing gently until a soft dough forms.
4. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Let the dough sit at room temperature for 5 minutes. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
3. Use an apple-shaped cookie cutter to cut out 8 pastry bases.
4. Place 2 tablespoons of cooled apple filling onto each pastry base.
5. Brush the edges with beaten egg yolk.
6. Roll out leftover dough scraps and cut into thin strips to form a lattice.
7. Lay strips over filling in a crisscross pattern, pressing gently to seal edges.
8. Freeze assembled pies for 15 minutes to help hold shape.

Step 4: Bake

1. Brush tops of pies with egg wash.
2. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cooked through.
3. Cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy these delightful Mini Apple Hand Pies warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Mini Apple Hand Pies

Mini Apple Hand Pies are delightful and versatile treats that can be served in various ways. Whether for a fall gathering or a cozy family night, these hand pies can elevate your dessert table and please your guests.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that complements the warm spiced apples.
• Cinnamon Ice Cream: Adds an extra touch of flavor, enhancing the autumn vibe.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Warm Caramel Sauce: Drizzling this over the hand pies creates a rich, sweet contrast.
• Salted Caramel: The hint of salt balances the sweetness beautifully.

Served with Fresh Whipped Cream

• Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: This airy topping makes for a perfect pairing with the spiced filling.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg for extra depth.

Accompanied by a Hot Beverage

• Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink that echoes the apple flavors in the pies.
• Chai Tea: The spices in chai make it an excellent companion for these hand pies.

How to Perfect Mini Apple Hand Pies

Perfecting Mini Apple Hand Pies involves attention to detail and care in preparation. Here are some tips to ensure your pies come out just right.

• Use cold ingredients: Keeping the butter and milk cold helps create a flaky crust.
• Don’t overfill: Use just enough filling to avoid spills while baking. Two tablespoons is ideal.
• Seal edges well: Press edges firmly to prevent leaks during baking; consider crimping for a decorative touch.
• Chill before baking: Freezing the assembled pies helps maintain their shape while they bake.
• Watch closely while baking: Ovens vary; keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.

Best Side Dishes for Mini Apple Hand Pies

Pairing side dishes with Mini Apple Hand Pies enhances your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement these tasty treats.

1. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Rich and creamy, this ice cream balances the hand pies’ spice perfectly.
2. Cranberry Sauce: A tart contrast that brightens the flavor profile of the sweet hand pies.
3. Pecan Salad: The crunch from pecans adds texture, and a light vinaigrette keeps it refreshing.
4. Cheese Platter: Offering sharp cheeses like aged cheddar creates a delightful savory contrast.
5. Pumpkin Soup: A warm, creamy soup that’s comforting and seasonal—perfect for fall gatherings.
6. Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon make for a great crunchy side snack.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes in your Mini Apple Hand Pies can elevate your baking experience. Here’s a list of common pitfalls to steer clear of.

• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the refrigeration step can lead to a crust that is tough and hard to work with. Always chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
• Overfilling the pies: Adding too much filling can cause the pies to burst during baking. Stick to 2 tablespoons of filling per pie for the best results.
• Ignoring egg wash: Neglecting to brush the tops with egg wash may result in a pale, unappetizing crust. Use it for a beautiful golden finish.
• Using warm apples: Filling the pies with warm apple mixture can make the crust soggy. Make sure the filling is completely cool before assembling.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at too low a temperature can result in undercooked pies. Always preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Mini Apple Hand Pies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mini Apple Hand Pies

• Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• These hand pies can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mini Apple Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individually on high power for about 30 seconds, but this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over medium heat, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes on each side for a crispy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Mini Apple Hand Pies, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries answered.

Can I use other fruits for the filling?

You can absolutely experiment with other fruits like pears or peaches for a delightful twist!

How do I make Mini Apple Hand Pies vegan?

To make these hand pies vegan, substitute butter with vegan margarine and use plant-based milk.

What is the best way to cut out shapes for my hand pies?

Use an apple-shaped cookie cutter or any round cutter you have on hand to create perfect shapes.

How long does it take to bake Mini Apple Hand Pies?

Bake them for about 20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until they are golden brown.

Final Thoughts

These Mini Apple Hand Pies are not only charming but also versatile! Perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home, they offer endless possibilities for customization. Try adding nuts or experimenting with different spices to match your taste. Enjoy this delightful treat anytime!