Mini Apple Hand Pies

These delightful Mini Apple Hand Pies are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Perfect for autumn gatherings, lunchboxes, or cozy weekend baking, these little pies bring a burst of flavor and warmth. With their spiced apple filling wrapped in a buttery crust, they’re sure to become your new favorite dessert. The adorable apple shape and golden lattice top make them stand out at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These hand pies come together quickly, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of sweet apples and warm spices creates an irresistible flavor that captures the essence of fall.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast on-the-go; they’re perfect any time of day.
• Adorable Presentation: Shaped like little apples with a charming lattice crust, they are visually appealing and sure to impress guests.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 8 mini pies, these treats are great for sharing at gatherings or family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making these Mini Apple Hand Pies, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure your pies turn out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients easily without mess.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even dough thickness for perfectly baked crusts.
• Apple-shaped cookie cutter: Creates beautifully shaped pastry bases that add charm to your 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 to prevent browning.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
3. Add the apples to the melted butter and cook for 5 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Stir in sugar and cinnamon; continue cooking for another 5–7 minutes until apples are tender.
5. 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 until well combined.
2. Add the cold butter cubes and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
3. Mix in the egg and cold 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) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Allow the refrigerated dough to sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before rolling out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
3. Use an apple-shaped cookie cutter to cut out 8 pastry bases from the rolled dough.
4. Place 2 tablespoons of cooled apple filling onto each pastry base in the center.
5. Brush edges with beaten egg yolk to help seal them properly.
6. Roll out leftover dough scraps; cut into thin strips to create a lattice pattern over each pie’s filling.
7. Lay strips over filling in a crisscross pattern; press gently to seal edges tightly.
8. Freeze assembled hand pies for about 15 minutes to help maintain their shape during baking.

Step 4: Bake

1. Brush tops of hand pies with egg wash for that golden finish.
2. Bake in preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cooked through.
3. Allow to cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy these Mini Apple Hand Pies fresh from the oven or pack them up as delightful snacks!

How to Serve Mini Apple Hand Pies

Mini Apple Hand Pies can be enjoyed in a variety of delightful ways. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them at home, these charming little treats are versatile and sure to please everyone. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Bean Ice Cream – A classic pairing that adds creaminess and complements the warm spices in the hand pies.
• Cinnamon Ice Cream – For an extra kick, this flavor enhances the apple filling with a delightful twist.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Warm Caramel Sauce – A rich drizzle on top of the hand pies adds sweetness and a luxurious touch.
• Salted Caramel Sauce – The salty-sweet contrast elevates the flavors, making each bite irresistible.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Fresh Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy, it’s perfect for balancing the richness of the pie crust.
• Cinnamon-Spiced Whipped Cream – Infusing whipped cream with cinnamon ties in beautifully with the pie’s flavor profile.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mini Fruit Tarts – Offering variety, these tarts complement the apple hand pies with fresh fruit toppings.
• Brownies – Rich and fudgy brownies create a delicious contrast to the lighter texture of the hand pies.

How to Perfect Mini Apple Hand Pies

To ensure your Mini Apple Hand Pies come out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose Firm Apples – Opt for varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that hold their shape during cooking.
• Chill Your Dough – Keeping your crust cold before baking ensures flakiness and prevents it from shrinking.
• Don’t Overfill – Use just enough filling to avoid spillage; about 2 tablespoons per pie works well.
• Seal Edges Well – Press down firmly on the edges to prevent them from opening while baking.
• Bake Until Golden Brown – Keep an eye on your pies; they should be golden for the best flavor and texture.
• Let Cool Before Serving – This helps set the filling and makes them easier to eat without burning your mouth.

Best Side Dishes for Mini Apple Hand Pies

Pairing side dishes with your Mini Apple Hand Pies can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside:

1. Cheese Platter – Include a mix of sharp cheddar and creamy brie for a savory contrast to sweet pies.
2. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette balances sweetness and adds freshness to the table.
3. Pumpkin Soup – This warm soup is perfect for fall and complements the spiced flavors of apple pies.
4. Spiced Nuts – Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon or nutmeg provide a crunchy texture that pairs well.
5. Hot Chocolate – Serve this comforting drink as a cozy pairing, especially during chilly evenings.
6. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits enhances the autumn vibe while keeping things light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mini Apple Hand Pies, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the chilling time: Skipping the chilling step can result in a dough that is too warm and difficult to handle. Always refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to achieve a flaky texture.

• Overcooking the filling: If you cook the apple filling for too long, it can turn mushy. Aim for tender apples while still retaining some shape—5–7 minutes should do!

• Not sealing properly: Failing to seal the edges of the hand pies can lead to filling leakage during baking. Be sure to press down firmly on the edges after crisscrossing with lattice strips.

• Using warm butter: If your butter is not cold enough when making the crust, the texture will suffer. Ensure butter is straight from the fridge and cubed before mixing.

• Skipping egg wash: Not brushing with egg wash can result in dull-looking pies. A simple egg wash gives your Mini Apple Hand Pies a beautiful golden finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Mini Apple Hand Pies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing Mini Apple Hand Pies

• Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Mini Apple Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pies on a baking tray and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be cautious as microwaving may soften the crust.

• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other fruits for my hand pies?

Absolutely! You can substitute apples with berries, peaches, or cherries. Adjust sugar and spices according to your fruit choice.

How do I prevent my crust from becoming soggy?

To prevent sogginess, ensure your filling is not too wet. Drain excess liquid before assembling your pies and bake until golden brown.

Can I make Mini Apple Hand Pies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and assemble them a day before. Keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What is the best way to serve these hand pies?

Mini Apple Hand Pies are delightful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.

Can I customize the spice blend?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with nutmeg, allspice, or ginger along with cinnamon for a different flavor profile in your filling.

Final Thoughts

These Mini Apple Hand Pies are not only adorable but also versatile treats perfect for any occasion. With their spiced apple filling enveloped in buttery crusts, they capture all the warmth of fall gatherings. Don’t hesitate to customize fillings or toppings based on your preferences—these little delights are sure to impress!