Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of warm apples and cinnamon filling your kitchen on a crisp autumn afternoon. Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies are the perfect treat for those cozy moments, whether you’re sipping a hot cup of tea by the window, preparing a sweet surprise for a loved one, or hosting a festive gathering. These hand pies combine the comforting flavors of tender apples, fragrant cinnamon, and a buttery, flaky crust that melts in your mouth with every bite.

The inspiration for this recipe comes from a cherished family tradition. Every fall, our home would be filled with the scent of fresh-baked pastries, as hand pies became a beloved treat for after-school snacks and weekend gatherings. Inspired by those memories, this recipe captures the essence of comfort, warmth, and nostalgia. The beauty of Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies lies not only in their flavor but also in their convenience—they’re perfectly portable, making them ideal for lunchboxes, picnics, or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

• 4-5 tablespoons ice water

• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

1. Prepare the Pie Dough
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough to maintain its flakiness. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

2. Make the Apple Filling
   In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir until the apples are evenly coated. This mixture will create a sweet and slightly tangy filling that complements the buttery crust perfectly.

3. Roll Out the Dough
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (approximately 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut circles for the hand pies. Re-roll scraps as needed.

4. Assemble the Hand Pies
   Place a spoonful of apple filling in the center of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges. Brush the edges with a little water, fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, and press the edges with a fork to seal. Ensure the pies are well-sealed to prevent leakage during baking.

5. Apply the Egg Wash
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish. Optionally, sprinkle a little granulated sugar on top for extra sparkle and sweetness.

6. Bake to Perfection
   Bake the hand pies for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before serving. The filling will thicken slightly as it cools, making them easier to handle.

7. Serve and Enjoy
   These hand pies are best served warm, either on their own or with a dusting of powdered sugar. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea, coffee, or even a simple glass of milk. Their portable size also makes them an excellent snack for school lunches, picnics, or road trips.

Tips for the Perfect Hand Pies

• Use firm apples: Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold their shape well during baking and offer a balanced sweet-tart flavor.

• Keep ingredients cold: Cold butter and ice water are essential for creating a flaky, tender crust. Avoid letting the dough warm up too much while handling.

• Don’t overfill: Too much filling can cause the pies to leak or become soggy. A heaping tablespoon of apple mixture is usually sufficient.

• Customize the spices: Feel free to experiment with ginger, cloves, or allspice for a unique flavor profile.

• Make ahead: Both the dough and the filling can be prepared a day in advance. Store the dough in the fridge and the filling in an airtight container to save time on baking day.

Storage and Freezing

Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies are surprisingly versatile when it comes to storage. Allow them to cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess.

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Refrigeration: Extend freshness for up to 5 days. Warm them briefly in the oven before serving.

• Freezing: Assemble the hand pies but do not bake. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Variations to Try

1. Caramel Apple Hand Pies: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce to the apple filling for a decadent treat.

2. Nutty Apple Hand Pies: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.

3. Maple Cinnamon Twist: Substitute brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a rich, autumnal flavor.

4. Mini Hand Pies: Use a smaller cutter to make bite-sized versions perfect for parties or kids’ lunches.

Why Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies Are Perfect for Any Occasion

These hand pies are more than just a dessert—they’re an experience. Their compact size makes them easy to share, and their warm, spiced filling instantly evokes memories of cozy kitchens, family gatherings, and seasonal celebrations. Whether you’re preparing a casual afternoon snack or adding a sweet touch to a festive table, these hand pies bring comfort and joy to every bite.

They also make a thoughtful homemade gift. Package a few hand pies in a decorative box or bag for friends, neighbors, or coworkers. The effort you put into making them will be appreciated, and the aroma alone is sure to make anyone’s day brighter.

Pairing Suggestions

While delicious on their own, Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies can be paired with complementary flavors to enhance your eating experience:

• Hot beverages: Tea, coffee, or hot chocolate complement the sweet and spicy filling beautifully.

• Ice cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the crisp pastry.

• Whipped cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream makes an elegant and easy topping.

• Cheese pairing: A slice of sharp cheddar cheese offers a classic sweet-savory combination.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking for a lighter version without compromising flavor, here are some simple swaps:

• Whole wheat flour: Replace half or all of the all-purpose flour for a nuttier, more wholesome crust.

• Natural sweeteners: Use honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugar in the filling.

• Reduce butter: Cut back slightly on the butter and add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt to maintain flakiness.

• Low-calorie glaze: Instead of egg wash, brush with milk or a light cream mixture for a softer finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the great things about Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies is that they can be prepared in advance, making them a convenient option for busy mornings, holidays, or gatherings. You can make the dough and the apple filling up to a day ahead. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it to keep it cold and firm. Store the apple filling separately in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its freshness and flavor. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll out the chilled dough, assemble the pies, and bake according to the recipe instructions. Preparing the components ahead of time not only saves you effort on baking day but also allows the flavors to meld slightly, making the filling even more delicious.

2. Can I freeze Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies?
Yes! Freezing is an excellent way to enjoy these hand pies anytime. For best results, assemble the pies but do not bake them. Place the assembled hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw them—just bake directly from frozen. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. Freezing this way preserves both the flaky texture of the crust and the sweet, spiced flavor of the apple filling, allowing you to enjoy fresh-tasting hand pies weeks later.

3. What type of apples work best?
Firm apples are key to achieving the perfect texture in these hand pies. Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold their shape well during baking, preventing the filling from becoming mushy. Granny Smith apples offer a slightly tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the sugar and cinnamon, while Honeycrisp and Fuji apples add a natural sweetness and crispness. For best results, peel and dice the apples evenly to ensure they cook uniformly inside the hand pies. Combining two apple varieties can also create a more complex flavor profile.

4. How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Preventing leaks starts with proper assembly. Avoid overfilling each hand pie; a heaping tablespoon of apple filling is usually sufficient. Brush the edges with a little water to help the dough seal properly, and press firmly with a fork. Chilling the dough before baking also helps it maintain its shape and creates a flakier crust. Additionally, leaving a small border around the filling allows the dough to expand slightly while baking, reducing the chances of spills.

5. Can I customize the spice blend?
Yes! While cinnamon and nutmeg are classic, you can experiment with ginger, cloves, or allspice to suit your taste. Adjust the quantities carefully, as these spices are potent and can easily overpower the apple flavor.

6. How should I store leftover hand pies?
Store cooled pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days. Reheat briefly in the oven to restore flakiness.

Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies Recipe

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including chilling)
• Yield: 8-10 hand pies 1x

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Description

There’s something comforting about the aroma of baked apples and cinnamon filling your kitchen on a crisp day. These Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies are perfect for cozy afternoons, festive gatherings, or a sweet treat after school. Inspired by classic fall flavors and family traditions, they feature a buttery, flaky crust encasing tender, spiced apple filling. Portable and easy to enjoy, they’re ideal for sharing or gifting, making every bite a little moment of warmth and nostalgia.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

• 4–5 tablespoons ice water

• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

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Instructions

• In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add cold butter and cut into the flour until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until dough forms. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

• In a medium bowl, mix diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until evenly coated.

• Roll out one disc of dough to 1/8-inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut circles about 4-5 inches in diameter. Re-roll scraps as needed.

• Place a spoonful of apple filling in the center of each circle. Brush edges with water, fold dough over into a half-moon, and seal edges with a fork.

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush tops with beaten egg. Optionally, sprinkle with sugar.

• Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and filling is bubbling. Cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before serving.

• Serve warm, optionally dusted with powdered sugar.

Notes

• Use firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for best results.

• Chilling the dough ensures a flaky, tender crust.

• Don’t overfill pies to prevent leaks.

• Serve warm for best flavor and texture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes

Michelle Davis