Apple hand pies are a delightful treat, combining the sweetness of apples with a buttery pastry that’s easy to make. These yeast-free hand pies are perfect for a quick dessert or a snack, appealing to both kids and adults alike. Their simplicity and deliciousness make them a go-to recipe for home bakers looking to enjoy a warm, fruity dessert. Just keep in mind that they are on the sweeter side, so enjoy them in moderation!
Why This Recipe Is Helpful
- Easy preparation with minimal ingredients.
- Quick bake time, making them perfect for short-notice gatherings.
- Ideal for using up leftover apples or sweetening up the kitchen with delightful aromas.
Best For
These hand pies are great for families looking for a fun, portable treat or for anyone craving a slice of apple goodness without the hassle of making a full pie.
Be Careful If
They are sweet, so those monitoring sugar intake may want to enjoy these in moderation.
Ingredients
- 200 g sour cream (any fat content)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 3 tbsp sugar (60 g)
- A pinch of salt
- 80 g butter, melted
- Vanillin (to taste)
- 2 eggs
- 400 g all-purpose flour
- 1 kg apples, peeled and grated
- 3 tbsp sugar (60 g) for filling
- Cinnamon (to taste)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
Ingredient Notes
- Sour Cream: Enhances moisture and flavor; can be substituted with yogurt.
- Apples: A mix of sweet and tart apples works well for balance.
- Butter: Use unsalted for better control over the salt level.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Pan for cooking filling
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Peel and grate the apples. If they change color, sprinkle with lemon juice to keep them fresh.
- In a pan over low heat, cook the grated apples with sugar until they release juice and soften.
- Stir in cornstarch, mixing well until the filling thickens, then remove from heat and add cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, combine sour cream with baking soda until it reacts.
- Add sugar, eggs, melted butter, salt, and vanillin to the sour cream mixture, stirring well.
- Gradually incorporate the flour, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead briefly and allow the dough to rest for 10 minutes.
- Divide the dough and filling into portions for 21 pies.
- Roll each dough portion into a circle, place the filling in the center, and seal into a pie shape.
- Arrange the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops of the pies with an egg-milk mixture for a golden finish.
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Pro Tips
- Ensure your dough is not too sticky by adjusting flour amounts as needed.
- Test your filling consistency; it should be thick but not dry.
- Allow the pies to cool slightly, as the filling will be very hot right out of the oven.
Lighter Swaps
- Use a lighter sour cream or yogurt to reduce calories, though the original version works best.
Common Mistakes
- Not allowing the dough to rest can cause it to shrink while baking.
- Overfilling the pies may lead to leaks during baking.
Serving Suggestions
These hand pies can be served warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Storage Instructions
Keep the hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Reheating Tips
Reheat them in a toaster oven for a few minutes to regain their crispness.
Nutrition Estimate
Calories: 220
Protein: 3 g
Carbs: 28 g
Fat: 10 g
Values are estimates and may vary by ingredients and portion size.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 21
Cuisine: American
Course: Dessert
Calories: 220 per pie
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits in the filling?
Yes, berries or peaches can also work well in these hand pies.
Can these hand pies be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and bake them right before serving.
What’s the best way to store leftover pies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
For those interested in a delightful apple dessert to complement these hand pies, you can check out grandmother’s apple streusel pie for another classic take on apple desserts.
