Mini Apple Hand Pies

These delightful Mini Apple Hand Pies are the ultimate fall treat, combining a spiced apple filling with a buttery crust. Perfect for gatherings, lunchboxes, or simply enjoying at home, these hand pies are not only adorable but also easy to make. With their unique shape and golden lattice top, they stand out as a cozy dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Spiced Flavor: The combination of apples, cinnamon, and sugar creates a warm and inviting taste that is perfect for autumn.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these hand pies as a sweet snack, dessert, or even breakfast on-the-go.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions and simple ingredients, you can whip up these mini pies without any hassle.
• Adorable Presentation: Their apple shape and lattice top make them visually appealing for any occasion.
• Perfect for Sharing: These mini pies are just the right size to share with friends and family during gatherings.

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Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly to achieve the perfect thickness for your hand pies.
• Apple-shaped cookie cutter: Helps create perfectly shaped pastry bases that enhance the visual appeal of your Mini Apple Hand Pies.
• Baking tray: Provides a sturdy base for baking multiple hand pies at once.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier after baking.

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 a little beaten egg yolk.
6. Roll out leftover dough scraps and cut into thin strips to form a lattice pattern over the filling. Press gently to seal edges.
7. Freeze assembled pies for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape.

Step 4: Bake

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

Enjoy your Mini Apple Hand Pies as they bring warmth and joy to every bite!

How to Serve Mini Apple Hand Pies

Mini Apple Hand Pies are delightful treats that can be served in various ways. These charming desserts are perfect for any occasion, and with a few simple serving suggestions, you can elevate their presentation.

Individual Treats

• Serve each Mini Apple Hand Pie on a small dessert plate for an elegant touch.

With Ice Cream

• Pair the hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm pie and cold ice cream create a delicious contrast.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• Lightly dust the tops with powdered sugar before serving. This adds a sweet finishing touch.

Accompaniments

• Offer whipped cream or caramel sauce on the side for dipping. This enhances the flavor experience.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange several Mini Apple Hand Pies on a large platter alongside other fall-themed desserts like pumpkin spice cookies or pecan tarts.

How to Perfect Mini Apple Hand Pies

To ensure your Mini Apple Hand Pies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough before rolling helps it maintain its shape during baking.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Keeping your butter and milk cold contributes to a flaky crust.

• Don’t Overfill: Avoid overstuffing the pies to prevent spillage while baking. Two tablespoons of filling is just right.

• Seal Well: Press the edges firmly to seal them properly; this prevents filling from leaking out during baking.

• Egg Wash for Shine: Brush the tops with egg wash before baking for a beautiful golden color.

Best Side Dishes for Mini Apple Hand Pies

These Mini Apple Hand Pies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here’s a list of perfect accompaniments:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that adds creaminess to the sweet and spiced pie.

2. Whipped Cream – Light and airy, whipped cream enhances the dessert’s richness without overpowering it.

3. Caramel Sauce – Drizzle warm caramel over the pies for an indulgent treat that adds depth of flavor.

4. Cinnamon Sugar Dusting – Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the top after baking for an extra hint of spice and sweetness.

5. Hot Chocolate – Serve with a warm mug of hot chocolate for a cozy fall experience.

6. Spiced Chai Tea – The warmth and spices in chai tea make it an excellent beverage option alongside these hand pies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mini Apple Hand Pies can be a joyful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using warm butter: Always use cold unsalted butter when making the crust. This ensures a flaky texture.
• Overcooking the filling: Keep an eye on the apples while cooking. You want them tender but not mushy, so stir frequently and taste as you go.
• Skipping the refrigeration: Refrigerating the dough is crucial for achieving the right consistency. It helps prevent shrinkage during baking.
• Not sealing properly: Make sure to press down on the edges of your pies firmly. A good seal keeps the filling from leaking out during baking.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Preheat your oven properly before baking. An accurate temperature ensures even cooking and a golden crust.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Mini Apple Hand Pies

• Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will maintain quality for up to 3 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 30 seconds, checking regularly to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mini Apple Hand Pies that might help you out.

How do I make Mini Apple Hand Pies from scratch?

To make Mini Apple Hand Pies from scratch, prepare your pie crust with cold butter and flour, then fill with spiced apple mixture before baking.

Can I use different fruits for Mini Apple Hand Pies?

Absolutely! You can substitute apples with other fruits such as pears, cherries, or berries for a delightful twist on this recipe.

What’s the best way to serve Mini Apple Hand Pies?

Mini Apple Hand Pies are best served warm, possibly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat!

Can I make Mini Apple Hand Pies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to two days in advance or freeze them for later enjoyment, making them perfect for gatherings.

How do I prevent my hand pies from leaking?

Ensure proper sealing of edges and consider chilling the filled pies before baking. This helps keep everything contained while they cook.

Final Thoughts

These Mini Apple Hand Pies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite spices or fruits. Perfect for any occasion, give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful treats!