Dessert

Apple Hand Pies Recipe

Bylina Carter December 15, 2025December 15, 2025

Introduction

Apple hand pies are a delightful, portable treat perfect for any time of day. These flaky pastries filled with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples offer a comforting blend of sweet and spice in every bite.

Several golden brown hand pies with a layered, flaky crust are shown on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. Most hand pies are closed, showing a crimped edge pattern, while one is cut open, revealing a warm, chunky apple filling with chunks and a syrupy texture inside. The tops of the pies are slightly glossy and sprinkled with coarse sugar, creating a sparkly effect. The edges are darker brown, showing a perfect bake. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon sugar
2/3 cup (155g) butter, chilled and cubed

1/3 cup (80ml) ice cold water, add more if needed
3 apples

2 tablespoons (30g) butter
1/4 cup (50g) sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
2 tablespoons (16g) cornstarch
Egg wash for brushing

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cubed chilled butter and blend with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Alternatively, use a food processor for this step.
Step 2: Slowly add the ice cold water and stir until the dough just comes together. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Step 3: Meanwhile, peel and chop the apples. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, cooking until the apples are tender, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Remove from heat, stir in the cornstarch, and set the filling aside to cool.
Step 5: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness. Use a 4-inch (10cm) round cutter to cut out circles.
Step 6: Place 1-2 tablespoons of the apple filling in the center of each circle. Brush the edges with beaten egg, fold the dough over the filling, and seal the edges with a fork.

Step 7: Refrigerate the assembled pies for 20-30 minutes. Then brush the tops with egg wash, cut a few small slits for steam to escape, and optionally sprinkle with sugar.
Step 8: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flaky crust, keep your butter very cold and handle the dough as little as possible.

Try adding a pinch of ground cloves or ginger to the filling for a warm spice variation.
If the dough feels dry, add water one teaspoon at a time until it comes together smoothly.

Storage

Store apple hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a low oven until heated through and crispy again.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of several golden brown hand pies stacked on a white plate. Each hand pie has a flaky, slightly crispy crust with a rough texture and sugar crystals sprinkled on top. One of the hand pies is cut in half, revealing a warm, gooey filling inside with a mix of soft, caramelized fruit pieces in shades of light brown and amber. The hand pies have a rounded, half-moon shape with crimped edges that show some browning. The background has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

How do I store apple hand pies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness before serving.

Can I make a classic apple pie with this recipe?

This dough and filling can be adapted for a classic apple pie. For the traditional pie shape and baking time, see a dedicated classic apple pie recipe.

What apples are best for apple pie?

Good varieties include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Golden Delicious, and Jonathan. You can use one type or mix several for a balanced flavor and texture.