These hand pies bring the crispy, sweet goodness of funnel cakes into a convenient, handheld treat. Filled with warm cinnamon apples, they're perfect for sharing or enjoying as a cozy dessert anytime.
Start by combining fresh apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon in a small saucepan over high heat. Keep stirring as it comes to a boil, then let it cook until the apples begin to soften, about 8 minutes. Toss in the dried apples, give it a good stir, and set it aside to cool completely.
While the filling cools, take the chilled dough out and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. When you’re ready, lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough into a 12x16-inch rectangle, about 1/8-inch thick. Use a round cutter to cut out twelve 4-inch circles.
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the apple mixture onto the center of each dough round. Fold the dough over the filling to make a half-moon shape, then press the edges together firmly. Use a fork dusted with flour to crimp the edges well so the filling stays inside.
Heat about an inch of oil in a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully slide in 3 pies at a time. Fry them for around 3 minutes, turning every 30 seconds to make sure they brown evenly and don’t burn. Once golden and crispy, transfer them to paper towels to drain.
Let the pies cool for a few minutes before dusting them generously with powdered sugar. Enjoy!
- Use cold butter or shortening in the dough to ensure a flaky crust.
- Don’t overfill the pies to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Brush the tops with a little milk or egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.
These hand pies combine the sweet, cinnamon-spiced flavor of apples with the crispy, golden texture reminiscent of a classic fair treat. They are easy to hold and perfect for sharing, making them a fun and delicious dessert for any occasion.
Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They also pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the pies wrapped tightly and reheat in the oven before serving to maintain crispiness.
