Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies

Name: Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies: A Delicious Treat to Bake Now!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup ice water; 2 cups apples, peeled and diced; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Posted on September 17, 2025

Dessert

Introduction to Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies wafting through the house. It instantly brings back memories of cozy family gatherings and warm kitchens. As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, and these delightful hand pies are the perfect solution for a quick dessert or snack. They’re easy to whip up, and trust me, your loved ones will be impressed! Whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive occasion, these hand pies will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies

These Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies are a delightful blend of ease and flavor. They come together quickly, making them perfect for busy days when you crave something sweet. The flaky crust envelops a warm, spiced apple filling that feels like a hug in every bite. Plus, they’re portable! Whether you’re packing them for lunch or serving them at a gathering, they’re sure to bring smiles all around.

Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies

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

All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your crust, providing structure and flakiness.
Unsalted butter: Chilled and diced, it adds richness and a tender texture to the dough.
Sugar: A touch of sweetness in the crust balances the flavors of the filling.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the overall taste, making the sweet flavors pop.
Ice water: This helps bring the dough together while keeping it cold for a flaky crust.
Apples: Peeled and diced, they are the star of the filling. Choose your favorite variety for the best flavor.
Cinnamon: This warm spice adds that cozy, comforting flavor we all love in apple desserts.
Brown sugar: It deepens the sweetness and adds a hint of caramel flavor to the filling.
Lemon juice: A splash brightens the apple filling and balances the sweetness.
Egg: Beaten, it’s used for an egg wash, giving the hand pies a beautiful golden finish.

For those looking to customize, feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or even some raisins for extra flavor. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delightful Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious treat that will impress everyone.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your hand pies bake evenly. A hot oven helps achieve that golden, flaky crust we all crave. So, don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt. Then, cut in the chilled, diced butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers. You want the mixture to resemble coarse crumbs. This texture is key for a flaky crust. It’s like creating little pockets of buttery goodness!

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Once your dough is mixed, it’s time to chill it. Wrap the dough ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and helps create that perfect flaky texture. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Step 4: Make the Apple Filling

While the dough chills, let’s prepare the apple filling. In a separate bowl, combine the diced apples, cinnamon, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Toss everything together until the apples are well coated. The lemon juice brightens the flavors, making each bite a burst of deliciousness!

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has chilled, it’s time to roll it out. On a floured surface, roll the dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles. Aim for about 4-5 inches in diameter. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; they’ll still taste amazing!

Step 6: Assemble the Hand Pies

Now comes the fun part—assembling your hand pies! Place a spoonful of the apple filling on one half of each dough circle. Fold the other half over and press the edges to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch. This step is where your creativity shines!

Step 7: Brush and Bake

Before baking, brush the tops of the hand pies with the beaten egg. This egg wash gives them that beautiful golden color. Place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them golden brown and irresistible!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the hand pies cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. This cooling time is essential for the flavors to settle. Plus, it prevents you from burning your tongue! Serve them warm, and watch everyone’s faces light up with joy.

Tips for Success

Use cold ingredients for the dough to ensure a flaky texture.
Don’t overfill the hand pies; a spoonful of filling is just right.
Experiment with different apple varieties for unique flavors.
For a golden crust, brush the tops with egg wash before baking.
Let the pies cool completely before serving to enhance the flavors.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. A smaller bowl works too!
Pastry cutter: Great for cutting in butter. You can also use your fingers.
Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out dough. A wine bottle can work in a pinch!
Round cutter: For cutting dough circles. A glass or jar lid is a perfect substitute.
Baking sheet: Needed for baking. Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Variations

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for a crunchy texture.
Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of warmth in the filling.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
Vegan Option: Use coconut oil instead of butter and a flax egg for a plant-based version.
Berry Twist: Mix in some fresh or frozen berries with the apples for a fruity explosion.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Serve with a warm cup of spiced cider or tea to enhance the cozy experience.
Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch before serving.
Arrange on a rustic platter for a charming presentation at gatherings.

FAQs about Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies

As you embark on your journey to create these delightful Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries that can help you along the way:

Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of making my own?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought pie crust is a great shortcut. Just roll it out and follow the same steps for filling and baking.

What type of apples are best for hand pies?

I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination gives a balanced flavor that’s simply irresistible!

Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the hand pies and freeze them before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready for a warm treat!

How do I store leftover hand pies?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them, but they’re best enjoyed fresh!

Can I add other spices to the filling?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist. Just a pinch can elevate the flavor profile beautifully!

Final Thoughts

Baking these Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with warmth and joy. The delightful aroma that fills your kitchen creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Each bite is a reminder of sweet moments spent together, making them a cherished treat. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or sharing them at a gathering, these hand pies are sure to bring smiles. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let the magic of baking fill your home with love and deliciousness!