Fried Apple Pies – Golden, Crispy, and Nostalgic

There’s something instantly comforting about biting into a fried apple pie—that crispy golden crust giving way to tender, spiced apples. These easy fried apple pies capture childhood nostalgia with every warm, flaky dessert pocket.

Perfect for busy bakers, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, yet delivers bakery-worthy delight. Whether you’re craving a sweet pick-me-up or need a charming dessert for unexpected guests, these little turnovers are your secret weapon to cozy satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Fried Apple Pies

• Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Deliciously sweet and comforting, a treat for all ages.
• Customizable with your favorite apples or spices.
• Great for sharing at gatherings or family dinners.
• Fried to golden perfection, they’re a delightful indulgence.

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Ingredients for Fried Apple Pies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Fried Apple Pies. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Apples: I recommend using a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. Feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties!
• Brown Sugar: This adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that complements the apples beautifully.
• Cinnamon: A warm spice that brings out the flavors of the apples, making each bite feel like a cozy hug.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, adding a lovely depth to the filling.
• Apple Cider (or Apple Juice): This adds moisture and a hint of apple flavor to the filling. If you don’t have cider, juice works just as well!
• Cornstarch: This is your thickening agent, ensuring the filling holds together nicely without being runny.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base for your dough, providing structure and a tender bite.
• Cold Butter: Cubed and mixed into the flour, it creates a flaky texture that’s simply irresistible.
• Egg Yolks: These add richness to the dough, making it more flavorful and tender.
• Hot Milk: This helps to bring the dough together, creating a soft and pliable texture.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
• Powdered Sugar: For the glaze, it adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish.
• Oil: Essential for frying, choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Fried Apple Pies

Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by peeling, coring, and dicing your apples into small cubes. I love using a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for that perfect balance of tart and sweet. In a saucepan, combine the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Cook this mixture over medium heat for about three minutes. The apples should start to soften and release their juices. Next, mix apple cider with cornstarch in a small bowl, then pour it into the saucepan. Increase the heat and cook for another three minutes until the filling thickens. This step is crucial for a delicious, gooey filling that won’t leak out during frying. Once done, remove it from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Make the Dough

Now, let’s whip up the dough! In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and salt. Then, cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles tiny crumbs. This is where the magic happens, creating that flaky texture we all love. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and hot milk until well combined. Gradually pour this mixture into the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Don’t overmix; just bring it together until it’s smooth. Knead the dough gently for about a minute, then divide it into six equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and let them rest while you prepare the filling.

Assemble the Pies

Time to bring it all together! Roll each dough ball into a circle about six inches in diameter. I like to use a rolling pin, but a glass works just as well. Place about two tablespoons of the apple filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, and pinch the edges tightly to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch. This not only looks pretty but also ensures the filling stays inside while frying. Repeat this process until all the dough and filling are used. If you have extra dough, feel free to make more pies or even some fun shapes for the kids!

Fry the Pies

Now, let’s get frying! Heat oil in a deep pot or skillet to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s important to use a thermometer to check the temperature; this ensures your pies fry evenly. Carefully place a few pies in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for about two minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pies and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. The sound of sizzling is music to my ears! Just imagine the crispy, flaky crust waiting for you. Let them cool slightly before glazing.

Prepare the Glaze

To finish off these delightful Fried Apple Pies, let’s make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable. Drizzle it over the warm pies for a sweet, shiny finish. You can also serve the glaze on the side for dipping. This little touch elevates your pies from delicious to absolutely irresistible!

Tips for Success

• Always check the oil temperature with a thermometer for perfect frying.
• Don’t overfill the pies; two tablespoons of filling is just right.
• Seal the edges well to prevent any filling from leaking out.
• Let the pies cool slightly before glazing for a better finish.
• Experiment with different apple varieties for unique flavors.

Equipment Needed

• Deep pot or skillet: A heavy-bottomed pot works well for frying.
• Thermometer: A candy or frying thermometer ensures the oil is at the right temperature.
• Mixing bowls: Use various sizes for mixing dough and filling.
• Rolling pin: A simple glass can substitute if you don’t have one.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing pies from hot oil.

Variations To Try

• Spiced Apple Filling: Add nutmeg or allspice to the apple filling for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
• Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the glazed pies for a decadent twist.
• Peach or Pear Pies: Substitute apples with diced peaches or pears for a different fruity delight.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the dough suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
• Vegan Version: Replace egg yolks with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based milk for the dough.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your Fried Apple Pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Enjoy with a warm cup of cinnamon-spiced tea or coffee.
• Present on a rustic wooden platter for a charming display.
• Dust with additional powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.

FAQs about Fried Apple Pies

Conclusion

Making these Easy Fried Apple Pies isn’t just baking—it’s bringing joy, warmth, and a sprinkling of nostalgia into your kitchen. Each golden hand pie offers a bite-sized hug, filled with sweet-spiced apples and wrapped in loving, flaky pastry.

If you’re loving the apple-filled goodness, here are a couple more comforting desserts to explore: sink your teeth into the soft, fluffy Apple Cake, or wrap your taste buds around the homey charm of Easy Apple Dumplings. No matter the choice, you’re in for a slice of pure comfort.