Contents
Introduction
Caramel apple hand pies are a delightful treat that combines the quintessential flavors of fall into a portable dessert. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening at home, these hand pies encapsulate sweet apples, rich caramel, and a flaky crust. They are easy to make and are sure to impress both family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 cups of diced apples
– 1 cup of caramel sauce
– 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
– 1 package of refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
– 1 tablespoon of sugar (for sprinkling)
Prep Time
The prep time for making caramel apple hand pies is approximately 20 minutes. This includes preparing the apple filling and rolling out the pie crusts.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for the hand pies is about 25 minutes. The total time from preparation to enjoying the pies is approximately 45 minutes. This recipe yields about 8 hand pies, making it a perfect number for sharing. Enjoy these scrumptious bites of fall!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare Your Apples
Peel, core, and slice your apples into small pieces. You should have about 3 cups of apples.
Mix the Apple Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Stir until the apples are well coated.
Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pie crust into a thin layer. Use a round cutter to cut out circles about 4 to 5 inches in diameter.
Fill the Dough Circles
Place a tablespoon of the apple mixture in the center of each dough circle.
Seal the Hand Pies
Fold the dough over the filling to create a pocket. Press the edges together and use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring they are sealed.
Prepare for Baking
Transfer the hand pies to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake the Hand Pies
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cool Before Serving
Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Apple Varieties
You can use a mix of apple varieties for a more complex flavor. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great options.
Storage Tips
Store unused hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator or freeze.
Serving Suggestions
These hand pies are delicious on their own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Adjusting Sweetness
Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of your apples.
Cook techniques
Making the Pie Crust
To achieve a flaky and tender pie crust, use cold butter and handle the dough minimally to prevent gluten development.
Preparing the Filling
Select the right apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Cook the apples down with sugar and spices until slightly soft.
Sealing the Hand Pies
Ensure a good seal by crimping the edges with a fork or your fingers, which also helps prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
Baking to Perfection
Bake until the hand pies are golden brown and the filling is bubbly, checking occasionally to prevent over-browning.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes, store-bought pie crust can be used for convenience, but homemade crusts provide a fresher taste and texture.
What type of apples are best for hand pies?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or other tart apples work best for hand pies as they hold their shape and add a nice flavor contrast.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Make sure to seal the edges properly and avoid overfilling the pies to reduce the chances of leakage.
Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the hand pies in advance and refrigerate or freeze them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are frozen.
What can I serve with caramel apple hand pies?
These hand pies pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.
Conclusion
The caramel apple hand pies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall with their sweet and savory flavors. Their flaky crust and warm filling make them a perfect dessert for any occasion, whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a cozy snack at home. With their charming presentation and delicious taste, these hand pies are sure to be a hit with everyone.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies
Embrace the fall spirit with these mini pumpkin hand pies, featuring a spiced pumpkin filling that’s perfectly enclosed in a flaky crust.
Cherry Almond Hand Pies
Combine fresh cherries and almond extract for a sweet and tart dessert that offers a different flavor profile while maintaining the hand pie concept.
Peach Cobbler Hand Pies
Utilize ripe peaches and a hint of cinnamon to create a summer-inspired hand pie that’s bursting with flavor, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Chocolate Hazelnut Hand Pies
Indulge your sweet tooth with rich chocolate hazelnut filling, offering an irresistible combination of nutty and chocolatey flavors.
Savory Spinach and Feta Hand Pies
Switch things up with a savory option that pairs fresh spinach and feta cheese in a flaky pastry, ideal for brunch or as a snack.
