There’s something magical about the combination of warm, fruity filling wrapped in flaky pastry dough. Fried Apple or Peach Pies offer that perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and texture. Whether you choose apple or peach filling, these delightful mini pies will be a hit for any occasion. They’re great for dessert, as a snack, or even served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Let’s get into how you can make these delicious hand pies at home!
Ingredients
To make these mouthwatering Fried Apple or Peach Pies, here’s what you’ll need:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon granulated white sugar
- 6 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
The Filling:
- 1 box apple pie filling or peach pie filling (choose your favorite!)
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and well combined. The cream cheese adds a rich, tangy flavor to the dough that pairs beautifully with the sweet fruit filling.
Next, mix in the vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon for a hint of warm spice. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, stirring until the dough forms. Once your dough is ready, roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about 1/4 inch thick.
2. Cut the Dough
Using a 3-inch round cookie cutter (or any small circular cutter), cut out 40 circles from the dough. These will be the tops and bottoms of your mini pies, so make sure you have enough pairs for each pie.
3. Prepare the Filling
In a separate bowl, mash the apple or peach pie filling slightly to break up any large chunks. This will make it easier to fill your pies without having any of the filling spill out.
4. Assemble the Pies
Spoon about a teaspoon of the filling onto the center of 20 dough circles. Be careful not to overfill! Too much filling can cause the pies to leak while baking. Once the filling is in place, top each circle with another dough circle to form a small, sealed pie.
5. Seal the Pies
To ensure none of that delicious filling escapes, use a fork to crimp the edges of each pie. Press the fork along the edges to create a tight seal, giving your pies that classic, rustic look.
6. Bake the Pies
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking, then place the assembled pies onto the sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and cooked through.
7. Add the Topping
While the pies are still warm, mix together 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon in a small bowl. Lightly sprinkle this cinnamon-sugar mixture over the warm pies for an extra touch of sweetness and spice.
8. Serve
Allow the pies to cool slightly before serving. These pies are best enjoyed warm, with their flaky, buttery crust and sweet, fruity filling bursting in every bite. Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat!
Tips for Success
- Chill the Dough: If your dough becomes too soft or sticky while you’re working with it, pop it into the fridge for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and helps maintain its structure when baking.
- Don’t Overfill: As tempting as it may be to add more filling, it’s important to keep the filling amounts small. Overfilled pies can burst or leak in the oven, making them difficult to handle.
- Try Different Fillings: While apple and peach are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other fruit fillings like cherry, blueberry, or even a mix of fruits for a unique flavor combination.
- Make It Ahead: These pies can be assembled in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to keep them covered so the dough doesn’t dry out.
Health Benefits
While these Fried Apple or Peach Pies are undoubtedly a treat, they do have a few ingredients that offer some nutritional benefits:
- Apples and Peaches: Both fruits are packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Apples provide a good source of fiber, which helps in digestion, while peaches are rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system.
- Cinnamon: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon adds a warm spice to the pies while also contributing to improved blood sugar control.
- Butter and Cream Cheese: While high in fat, both butter and cream cheese contain important fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A, which is essential for vision and immune function.
FAQs
Q: Can I fry these pies instead of baking them?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer a more traditional fried pie, heat oil in a skillet and fry the pies until golden brown on each side. Just be sure to drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just let it come to room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out.
Q: What other fillings can I use?
A: You can use any pie filling you like! Cherry, blueberry, and even pumpkin would work wonderfully in this recipe. You can also make your own homemade fruit filling for a personal touch.
Q: Can I freeze these pies?
A: Yes, these pies freeze well! After baking, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to restore their flakiness.
Q: Can I use store-bought dough?
A: If you’re short on time, you can certainly use store-bought pie dough. However, the homemade dough in this recipe adds a richness and flavor that really makes these pies stand out.
Conclusion
These Fried Apple or Peach Pies are a delightful take on a classic dessert, perfect for any occasion. With a flaky, buttery crust and a sweet, fruit-filled center, they’re sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying them as an afternoon snack, these pies are a comforting treat that’s simple to make and impossible to resist. Give them a try and watch them become a favorite in your household!
Read Also: Apple and Apricot Jam Cake: A Sweet and Fruity Delight