Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies are a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon and apples in a flaky, golden crust. These hand pies are perfect for dessert or a sweet snack. Unlike traditional baked pies, using an air fryer makes them easier and faster to prepare while still achieving a crispy texture. In this article, you will learn why you should make this recipe, how to prepare these delicious hand pies, and tips to make them even better.
Why make this recipe
There are many reasons to make Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies. First, they are simple to prepare and require minimal ingredients. If you enjoy making desserts that impress, these hand pies are easy to master and will wow your family and friends. The air fryer allows for a quicker cooking time, making it convenient, especially for busy people.
Another reason to try this recipe is the versatility of hand pies. You can easily customize the filling. While this recipe focuses on apple, you can use other fruits like cherries or blueberries. Additionally, they make a great addition to parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
How to make Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies
Creating Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies is straightforward. You will cook down the apples with sugar and spices, prepare the pie crust, fill and seal the pies, then air fry them to perfection. Each step is quick, allowing you to enjoy your homemade treat in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 package refrigerated pie crust (2 crusts)
- 2 granny smith apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into small pieces
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 cup water
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 3 tablespoons coarse sugar
Directions:
- Heat a medium saucepan on medium-low heat and add in the sliced apples, lemon juice, water, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and cornstarch. Mix until combined.
- Bring mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook apples until they are slightly soft and sauce is thickened, about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and allow the apples to cool for about 10 minutes.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pie crust and cut it into 4.5-inch circles and place on the baking sheet.
- Place 2 tablespoons of the apple filling onto the bottom half of the circle. Flip the top half over until the edges touch. Use a fork and press the edges together.
- Using a small knife, make three slits in the crust on top of the pies.
- Brush the egg wash over the hand pies and sprinkle the coarse sugar on top.
- Preheat air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for 5 minutes.
- Place 2-5 hand pies in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the pies turn golden brown.
How to serve Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies
Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies can be served warm or at room temperature. They are delightful on their own, but you can enhance the experience by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top can also add a nice finishing touch. Consider serving them with a side of caramel sauce for dipping.
How to store Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies
If you happen to have leftovers, store them properly to maintain their texture and flavor. Place the hand pies in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you prefer to freeze them, place the cooled hand pies in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, air fry them at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for about 5 minutes or until warmed through.
Tips to make Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies
- Use cold pie crust: Keeping the dough cold helps create a flaky texture.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. You may include ginger or cardamom for extra flavor.
- Don’t overfill: Avoid overstuffing the hand pies to prevent them from bursting during cooking.
- Ensure sealing: Make sure to seal the edges properly to keep the filling from leaking out.
- Monitor cooking time: Cooking times can vary by air fryer model, so keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Variation (if any)
While this recipe centers on apple filling, you can easily modify it. Consider using peaches, cherries, or berries as a filling. You can also add nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor. For a chocolate version, try adding chocolate chips with the apples. There are countless possibilities!
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated?
Yes, you can absolutely use homemade pie crust if you prefer. Be sure to roll it out thinly for the best results.
Can I make these without an air fryer?
Yes! You can bake them in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
How can I make the filling ahead of time?
You can prepare the apple filling in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before filling the hand pies.
Are Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies healthy?
While these hand pies are a sweet treat and should be enjoyed in moderation, using an air fryer reduces the amount of oil typically used in frying. You can also modify the recipe by using less sugar or adding whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
Nutritional Info (per hand pie)
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 2g
These Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies offer a delicious, easy way to enjoy a classic dessert with a modern twist. They are perfect for any occasion and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavors in every bite!