The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade)

Craving fried apple pies this Fall season? Then try my Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade)! These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to a cozy family dessert. With a tender, flaky pie crust and a spiced apple filling, these homemade pies deliver a delicious bite of nostalgia that will warm your heart and home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Homemade Goodness: Experience the joy of making pies from scratch with fresh ingredients.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The combination of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples creates a delightful sweet-and-tart filling.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for holidays, parties, or simply as an afternoon treat with coffee or tea.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 45 minutes, making it easy to whip up whenever the craving strikes.
• Family-Friendly Fun: A great recipe to involve kids in the kitchen, creating memories while baking together.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results for your fried apple pies, having the right tools is essential. Here are some key items you’ll need:

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Pastry cutter
• Rolling pin
• Saucepan
• Deep fryer or deep saucepan
• Thermometer

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowls: Essential for preparing both the pie filling and dough efficiently.
• Pastry cutter: Helps incorporate butter into flour evenly, leading to a flaky crust.
• Deep fryer or deep saucepan: Ensures even cooking of the pies when frying, providing that perfect golden-brown finish.

Ingredients

• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced (I recommend 1 granny smith and 1 honeycrisp for balance)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 teaspoons apple cider (or apple juice)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 2 cups self-rising flour, sifted
• 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
• 2 egg yolks
• 1/3 cup HOT milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 Tablespoon milk
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• Vegetable or canola oil, for frying

How to Make The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade)

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

To make these delicious fried apple pies, you’ll start first by making the homemade apple pie filling.
1. Peel, core, and dice your apples into small cubes. Using one Granny Smith and one Honeycrisp will give you a perfect sweet/sour balance.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. Cook until juices start to form—about 3 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the apple cider (or apple juice) and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the saucepan.
4. Increase heat to high and cook for an additional 3 minutes while stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Pie Dough

Now it’s time to create your homemade pie dough!
1. Sift the self-rising flour into a large mixing bowl.
2. Cut cold butter into cubes and use a pastry cutter to work it into the flour until it resembles tiny lumps.
3. In another bowl, combine egg yolks and salt.
4. Heat milk in short intervals in the microwave until steaming hot; then gradually add it to the egg mixture while stirring continuously.
5. Combine this mixture with the flour mixture to form your dough.
6. Knead on parchment paper for about one minute until smooth.

Step 3: Shape Your Pies

Prepare each pie by shaping them correctly:
1. Divide your dough into six equal pieces and roll each into a ball.
2. Roll out each ball into circular shapes using a rolling pin or glass—imperfections are okay!
3. Place about two tablespoons of apple filling on one half of each circle before folding over and pinching edges tightly to seal.
4. Crimp down edges with a fork for extra security.

Step 4: Fry Your Pies

It’s frying time!
1. Heat vegetable or canola oil in your deep fryer or saucepan to around 350 degrees Fahrenheit; use a thermometer if available.
2. If you don’t have one, use the wooden spoon trick—if bubbles form around it when placed in oil, it’s ready!
3. Carefully add pies one at a time and fry them for about two minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Once done, place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Glaze Your Pies

While your pies are still warm:
1. Whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth for your glaze.
2. Brush glaze onto warm pies using a pastry brush or drizzle it over them directly.

Enjoy!

Allow glaze to set briefly before diving in! Enjoy your homemade fried apple pies warm for an unforgettable treat!

How to Serve The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade)

Serving fried apple pies can elevate your dessert experience. These delightful treats are not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you enjoy them plain or dressed up, here are some great serving suggestions.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm fried apple pies, creating a delightful contrast in temperature.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• Add a touch of sweetness by drizzling warm caramel sauce over the pies. This enhances the flavors of the apple filling.

Top with Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a delightful finish. You can even sprinkle cinnamon on top for an extra layer of flavor.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Fresh slices of fruit like strawberries or blueberries can add a refreshing component to your dessert plate and balance the sweetness.

Pair with Hot Beverages

• Enjoy your fried apple pies alongside a hot cup of coffee or cider for a cozy treat that’s perfect for chilly days.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Arrange multiple fried apple pies on a platter with small jars of different sauces like chocolate, caramel, and berry coulis for dipping fun!

How to Perfect The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade)

Perfecting your fried apple pies takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you create the best version possible.

• Use Fresh Apples: Choose firm, fresh apples for your filling to ensure they maintain their texture while cooking.
• Chill Your Dough: Keeping your pie dough cool helps achieve a flaky crust. If it gets too warm, pop it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
• Control Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is at 350 degrees before frying. This ensures the pies cook evenly and become golden brown without absorbing too much oil.
• Don’t Overfill: When adding filling to the dough, be careful not to overfill. This can cause the pies to burst during frying.
• Seal Properly: Pinch edges tightly and crimp them with a fork. This prevents filling from leaking out while frying.
• Allow Cooling Time: Let the fried apple pies cool on paper towels after frying to absorb excess oil before glazing.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade)

Fried apple pies make an excellent dessert on their own, but pairing them with sides can enhance your meal. Try these side dishes that complement their delicious flavors.

1. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Soft and sweet, these donuts echo the flavors of your pie and make for a delightful combo.
2. Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp adds texture contrast while keeping in line with the apple theme.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers savory notes that balance the sweetness of the pie.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of pie into rich chocolate fondue for an indulgent treat that’s sure to impress.
5. Spiced Nuts: Crunchy nuts seasoned with spices provide a savory bite that’s perfect alongside sweet desserts.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and complements the rich flavors of fried apple pies beautifully.
7. Carrot Sticks and Hummus: For something lighter, crunchy carrot sticks dipped in hummus offer a healthy contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade), it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Ignoring apple variety: Using only one type of apple can lead to a bland taste. Always mix a tart apple like Granny Smith with a sweeter option like Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor.
• Overfilling the pies: Adding too much filling can cause the pies to burst during frying. Stick to about 2 tablespoons of filling per pie for the best results.
• Not sealing properly: If the edges aren’t sealed well, the filling may leak out while frying. Use a fork to crimp the edges securely and ensure your pies stay intact.
• Frying at incorrect temperature: Oil that is too hot can burn the crust, while oil that is too cool can make them greasy. Use a thermometer or the wooden spoon trick to test oil readiness.
• Skipping resting time for dough: Not allowing the dough to rest can result in tough pies. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes before rolling out for a flaky texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover fried apple pies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade)

• Place cooled fried apple pies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the pies for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until hot. This method may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for several minutes on each side, ensuring they stay crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade) secret?

The secret lies in using a mix of apples and creating a buttery, flaky crust from scratch.

Can I use different fruits?

Absolutely! You can customize this recipe using pears, peaches, or berries according to your preference.

How do I keep my fried apple pies crispy after cooking?

Store them in an airtight container but place paper towels between layers to absorb moisture and keep them crispy.

Can I make these pies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and dough in advance, then assemble and fry them when ready.

Conclusion

The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade) offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will impress your family and friends. With its versatility, you can customize fillings and enjoy this classic treat any time of year. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try today!