Mini Apple Hand Pies

These delightful Mini Apple Hand Pies offer a perfect blend of sweet, spiced apple filling wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust. Ideal for autumn gatherings, lunchboxes, or cozy weekends at home, these hand pies are not only adorable but also versatile enough to charm everyone. Their unique apple shape and golden lattice top make them a standout dessert that is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can whip up these hand pies.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive fall gathering or a casual snack, these mini pies fit right in.
• Deliciously Versatile: Feel free to experiment with different spices or fruits in the filling to suit your taste.
• Fun for Kids: Get the little ones involved in baking and assembling these cute treats.
• Great for Sharing: With eight servings, these pies are fantastic for sharing with family and friends.

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Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Mini Apple Hand Pies, gather your tools and equipment. The right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Essential for creating an even dough thickness, ensuring consistent cooking.
• Apple-shaped cookie cutter: Makes it easy to cut out perfectly shaped pastry bases that look great.
• Baking tray: Provides a sturdy surface for baking multiple hand pies at once.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, allowing for easy removal of the baked hand pies.

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. Mix in the egg and milk 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 before rolling 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 edges with beaten egg yolk.
6. Roll out leftover dough scraps into thin strips to create a lattice design on top of each pie.
7. Lay strips over filling in a crisscross pattern and press gently to seal edges.
8. Freeze assembled pies for 15 minutes to help them keep their shape during baking.

Step 4: Bake

1. Brush tops of pies with egg wash before placing them in the oven.
2. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cooked through.
3. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Mini Apple Hand Pies!

How to Serve Mini Apple Hand Pies

These Mini Apple Hand Pies are versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pair these warm pies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combination.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add a drizzle of rich caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of sweetness that complements the spiced apple filling.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a light and airy addition that balances the flavors.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the Mini Apple Hand Pies on a dessert platter alongside other treats like cookies or brownies for a varied dessert experience.

Topped with Powdered Sugar

• Dust the tops with powdered sugar right before serving for an elegant finish and an extra touch of sweetness.

How to Perfect Mini Apple Hand Pies

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

• Chill the Dough: Keeping your dough cold helps maintain its structure and results in a flaky crust.
• Use Fresh Apples: Choose firm apples that hold their shape well when cooked, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the best filling.
• Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling the pies to prevent spilling during baking, which can lead to messy hand pies.
• Seal Properly: Make sure to seal the edges well by pressing them together, ensuring no filling leaks out while baking.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for a more complex flavor profile in your apple filling.

Best Side Dishes for Mini Apple Hand Pies

Pairing side dishes with your Mini Apple Hand Pies can elevate your meal. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Apple Cider: A glass of warm apple cider complements the flavors of your hand pies beautifully.
2. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses can balance the sweetness; consider sharp cheddar or brie.
3. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad adds a refreshing contrast, especially with tangy vinaigrette.
4. Pumpkin Soup: Serve alongside creamy pumpkin soup for a cozy autumn meal pairing.
5. Hot Chocolate: Enjoying these hand pies with hot chocolate creates a comforting treat ideal for chilly days.
6. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a light and healthy side option that pairs well with sweet desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mini Apple Hand Pies can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough crusts. Mix until just combined for a flaky texture.
• Ignoring the chilling step: Skipping refrigeration makes the dough difficult to handle. Always chill your dough for at least 30 minutes.
• Not cooling the filling: Using warm filling can make the crust soggy. Let your apple filling cool completely before assembly.
• Cutting uneven shapes: Inconsistent sizes will bake unevenly. Use a template or cookie cutter for uniform shapes.
• Skipping the egg wash: Omitting this step results in dull-looking pies. Brush with egg wash before baking for a golden finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Mini Apple Hand Pies

• Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Mini Apple Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30-60 seconds. Be cautious as they can become soggy.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mini Apple Hand Pies.

How do I make Mini Apple Hand Pies crispy?

For crispy crusts, ensure your dough is cold and avoid overfilling with apples.

Can I use different fruits in Mini Apple Hand Pies?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with pears, berries, or any favorite fruit.

What kind of apples are best for Mini Apple Hand Pies?

Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.

How do I make Mini Apple Hand Pies ahead of time?

Prepare and assemble your pies, then freeze them unbaked. Bake them fresh when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

These Mini Apple Hand Pies are not only adorable but also versatile. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy weekends, they can easily be customized with different fruits or spices. Give this recipe a try and enjoy delightful bites filled with warmth and comfort!