Crispy Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies

Hand pies are a beloved treat that perfectly encapsulates the joyous essence of homemade desserts. With their flaky, buttery crust and a sweet, spiced apple filling, these little delights are not just food—they're an experience. Picture this: a warm, golden-brown pastry cradling tender apples, kissed with cinnamon and sugar, ready to be devoured. The appeal of hand pies goes beyond their delightful taste; they evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of family gatherings, autumn afternoons, and the comforting aroma of baked goods wafting through the kitchen.

Indulge in the comforting delight of homemade crispy apple cinnamon hand pies! With a flaky, buttery crust and a warm, spiced apple filling, these delightful treats evoke nostalgia and are perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and portable, they’re ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a cozy nighttime snack. This guide walks you through selecting the best apples, crafting the filling, and perfecting the baking process, ensuring delectable results every time.

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Ingredients

2 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

1 package (1 sheet) of ready-made pie crust or puff pastry (thawed if frozen)

1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

Extra granulated sugar for sprinkling

Pinch of salt

Instructions

Prepare the Apple Filling:

- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced apples, lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to coat the apples.

- Add the butter and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the apples are tender but not mushy.

- Stir in the flour to thicken the filling, cooking for an additional minute. Remove from heat and let it cool while you prepare the dough.

Roll Out the Dough:

- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pie crust or puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thick.

- Using a round cutter (about 4 inches in diameter), cut out circles from the dough. You should get about 8-10 circles.

Assemble the Hand Pies:

- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

- Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the cooled apple filling in the center of each circle.

- Fold the dough over to create half-moons and press the edges together to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for an extra decorative touch.

Egg Wash and Sprinkle:

- Brush the tops of the hand pies with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish when baked.

- Sprinkle a little sugar on top of each pie for added sweetness and crunch.

Bake:

- Place the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Cool and Serve:

- Remove from the oven and let the hand pies cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature as a delightful snack or dessert!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 45 minutes | 8 servings