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.
Ingredients
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
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4–5 tablespoons ice water
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2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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2 tablespoons brown sugar
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
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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.
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In a medium bowl, mix diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until evenly coated.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and filling is bubbling. Cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before serving.
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Serve warm, optionally dusted with powdered sugar.
Notes
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Use firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for best results.
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Chilling the dough ensures a flaky, tender crust.
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Don’t overfill pies to prevent leaks.
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Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes