EASY APPLE HAND PIES

These homemade Apple Hand Pies are the perfect little pockets of comfort. Made with a buttery, flaky pie dough that bakes up crisp and golden, every bite is filled with tender apples that have been gently cooked down with warm cinnamon and a touch of brown sugar. The filling isn’t overly sweet, which allows the natural flavor of the apples to shine, while the cinnamon adds a cozy spice that compliments the sweetness of the apples.

Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven, pack them for school or work, or make a big batch to freeze for later, these hand pies are a delicious treat you’ll come back to again and again. They’re simple to prepare, easy to bake, and perfect for meal prep. If you’ve been craving a bakery-style pastry at home, these apple hand pies will quickly become a family favorite... flaky, buttery, and absolutely irresistible.

🍎 APPLE HAND PIES

⏱ Prep & Bake Time:

• Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling time)

• Cook Time: 20–25 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

• Servings: About 12 hand pies (depending on size)

Dough Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• ¼ cup sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into ½-inch cubes

• Ice-cold water (add 1 tablespoon at a time, as needed)

Dough Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt.

2. Cut in the butter until the mixture is crumbly with pea-sized bits of butter.

3. Gently smush or flatten any larger pieces of butter — this helps make the pastry flaky.

4. Add ice-cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, tossing gently until the dough just comes together (don’t knead).

5. Once the dough holds when squeezed, divide into two portions, flatten slightly into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Apple Filling Ingredients:

• 4–5 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• ½ tsp salt

• 2 tbsp butter

Filling Instructions:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, add apples, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt.

2. Cook until apples soften slightly and release their juices.

3. Stir in butter, mixing until melted and glossy.

4. Set aside to cool completely before filling the dough.

To Assemble Hand Pies:

1. Roll out chilled dough on a lightly floured surface.

2. Cut into rounds (or squares) for hand pies.

3. Place a spoonful of cooled apple filling in the center of each piece.

4. Fold over or cover, seal edges with a fork, and cut small slits for steam to escape.

5. Brush tops with egg wash (optional) and sprinkle lightly with sugar (optional).

6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

SAMANTHA'S SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Fresh out of the oven: Serve warm with a light dusting of powdered sugar or some yogurt for a simple, comforting treat.

• With ice cream: Pair with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a classic, indulgent dessert.

• Drizzled with glaze: Mix powdered sugar with a little milk or lemon juice and drizzle over the top once cooled for an extra touch of sweetness.

• Breakfast-style: Enjoy with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or even spiced chai for a cozy morning start.

• Packed for lunches: These hand pies are sturdy enough to wrap and pack in lunchboxes for school or work.

• Holiday treat: Serve on a platter at gatherings...they look beautiful dusted with cinnamon sugar.

• Meal prep tip: Bake a batch, let them cool, then freeze individually. Just reheat in the oven for a quick snack or dessert anytime.