Craving a tasty treat that’s easy to make? These Air Fryer Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies are just what you need! With simple ingredients like fresh apples, sugar, and cinnamon, you can create a warm, comforting snack in no time. Join me as we explore this quick recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Get ready to enjoy a delicious bite of fall, right from your kitchen!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients Needed
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
For the crust, I use all-purpose flour. It gives a nice texture. The salt adds depth to the flavor. Granulated sugar sweetens the crust just right. The unsalted butter makes the dough rich and flaky. I like to chill the butter for the best results. Fresh apples are key for the filling. They bring sweetness and juiciness.
Spices and Other Ingredients
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
Cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth to the filling. I always use fresh spices for more flavor. Lemon juice brightens the apple taste. It cuts through the sweetness and keeps apples from browning. An egg wash gives the hand pies a beautiful golden color.
Optional Toppings
– Additional granulated sugar for sprinkling
– Icing or glaze variations
For extra crunch and sweetness, I sprinkle more sugar on top. You can also add icing or a glaze if you like. This makes the hand pies look lovely and taste even better.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the Dough
To make the dough, start by mixing the dry ingredients. In a bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. This mix gives a nice base for the dough.
Next, add the butter into the dry mix. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend in 1/2 cup of chilled and cubed butter. You want the mix to look like coarse crumbs.
Then, slowly add cold water. Use a tablespoon and mix with a fork until the dough comes together. Don’t overmix! Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the dough stay firm.
Preparing the Apple Filling
Now onto the filling. Peel, core, and dice 2 medium apples. You want them in small pieces for good flavor in every bite.
In a bowl, mix the diced apples with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. This mixture will give the filling a delicious sweet and spicy flavor.
Set the apple filling aside while you prepare the dough.
Assembling the Hand Pies
Once the dough is chilled, roll it out on a floured surface. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles, about 4-5 inches in diameter.
Place a tablespoon of apple filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal. For a fun touch, use a fork to crimp the edges.
Air Frying the Hand Pies
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place a few hand pies in the basket, keeping space between them.
Cook the hand pies for 10-12 minutes. You want them to be golden brown and crispy.
After cooking, let the pies cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for a tasty treat!
Tips & Tricks
Dough Preparation Tips
– To make great dough, avoid overmixing. Mix until it just comes together.
– Chill the dough for better texture. Wrap it in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Filling Suggestions
– Use different types of apples for unique flavors. Granny Smith adds tartness, while Fuji gives sweetness.
– Adjust sweetness with sugar. Start with a little, taste, and add more if needed.
Air Frying Tips
– Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. This helps the pies cook evenly and get crispy.
– Check for doneness by looking for a golden brown color. If it’s not golden, give it a few more minutes.
Variations
Alternative Fillings
You can switch up the filling in your hand pies for fun flavors. Berries make a great choice. You can use fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. Simply mash them with a bit of sugar and cornstarch. This makes a juicy berry filling.
Another tasty option is pumpkin spice. For this, mix canned pumpkin with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a bit of sugar. This gives a warm, cozy taste perfect for fall.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, you can try almond flour or a gluten-free blend. These work well in the dough. Just remember to adjust the liquid, as gluten-free flours absorb differently.
For vegan adjustments, replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. You can use a flax egg instead of the egg wash. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens, then brush it on the pies.
Flavor Enhancements
To make your hand pies even tastier, consider adding vanilla extract to the apple filling. Just a splash can amplify the sweetness.
You can also add nuts or raisins for extra texture. Chopped walnuts or pecans add crunch, while raisins bring sweetness. Mix these into your apple filling for a delightful twist.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store hand pies, first let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to store them longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each pie in plastic wrap. Then put the wrapped pies in a freezer bag or container. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating Instructions
For reheating, the air fryer works best. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the hand pies in the basket and heat for about 5 to 7 minutes. This will make them crispy again. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can use an oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, hand pies last about three days if stored well. If you freeze them, they can last up to three months. Just remember to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. To do this, follow the steps to mix the flour, salt, and sugar with the butter. Once you form the dough, wrap it in plastic. Store it in the fridge for up to two days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the dough. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before you roll it out.
What type of apples are best for hand pies?
For the best flavor, I recommend using tart apples. Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great. These apples hold their shape and add a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors. You can also mix in some sweeter apples for extra taste. Just ensure they are fresh and firm.
How do I prevent the hand pies from leaking?
To stop the filling from leaking, sealing the edges is key. After placing the filling on the dough, fold it over carefully. Press the edges together firmly. Then use a fork to crimp the edges. This adds a nice look too. Finally, poke a few small holes in the top to let steam escape.
Can I use store-bought dough instead?
You can use store-bought dough if you want to save time. Pre-made dough is often easier, but it may lack flavor. Check the label for quality ingredients. If you choose this option, just roll it out and follow the same steps for filling and sealing. It’s a great shortcut for busy days!
This blog post covers how to make delicious hand pies from scratch. You learned about key ingredients like flour, apples, and spices. I shared step-by-step instructions for making the dough and filling. You saw tips for air frying and storing your tasty pies.
Try different fillings to add your twist. Enjoy making and sharing these treats! They are easy and fun to create. Your friends and family will love them. Keep experimenting and find your favorite version. Happy baking!
