Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies

Name: Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies: A Delicious Homemade Treat!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup ice water; 2 cups apples, peeled and diced; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Posted on October 6, 2025

Dessert

Introduction to Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies wafting through the kitchen. It instantly transports me back to my childhood, where every bite felt like a warm hug. These delightful pastries are not just a treat; they’re a quick solution for busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With their flaky crust and sweet, spiced apple filling, they’re perfect for an afternoon snack or a cozy dessert. Trust me, once you try making these hand pies, they’ll become a cherished family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies

These Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies are a delightful blend of ease and flavor. They come together quickly, making them perfect for busy moms like me who crave homemade goodness without the fuss. The sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling wrapped in a flaky crust is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re portable! Whether for a picnic or a lunchbox treat, these hand pies are sure to bring smiles all around.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the foundation of your flaky crust. It provides structure and texture.
Unsalted butter: Chilled and diced, butter adds richness and helps create that tender, flaky pastry we all love.
Sugar: A touch of sweetness in the dough balances the flavors of the filling.

Salt: Just a pinch enhances the overall taste, bringing out the sweetness of the apples.
Ice water: This helps bind the dough without melting the butter, keeping it nice and flaky.
Apples: Peeled and diced, they’re the star of the show! Choose your favorite variety for the best flavor.

Cinnamon: This warm spice adds that cozy, comforting flavor that pairs perfectly with apples.
Brown sugar: It adds a deeper sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor to the filling.
Lemon juice: A splash of acidity brightens the apple filling and balances the sweetness.

Egg: Beaten, it’s used for an egg wash to give the hand pies a beautiful golden finish.

For those looking to customize, feel free to experiment with different types of apples or even add nuts for a delightful crunch. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delightful Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of warm, flaky pastries in no time.

Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. I like to use a whisk to combine them well. Next, cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers. You want the mixture to resemble coarse crumbs, like sandy beach pebbles.

Once that’s done, add ice water a tablespoon at a time. Mix until the dough forms a ball. Don’t overwork it! Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight. This resting time is crucial for a flaky crust.

Make the Apple Filling

While the dough chills, let’s whip up the apple filling. In a separate bowl, combine the peeled and diced apples with cinnamon, brown sugar, and lemon juice. The lemon juice brightens the flavors, making the apples sing!

Mix everything gently until the apples are well coated. Set this aside to let the flavors meld together. Trust me, the aroma will make your mouth water!

Assemble the Hand Pies

Once your dough is ready, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter to cut out circles. I usually aim for about 4 inches in diameter.

Place a spoonful of the apple mixture on one half of each circle. Be careful not to overfill; you want to seal them properly! Fold the dough over and press the edges to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

Bake the Hand Pies

Brush the tops of the hand pies with the beaten egg for that golden finish. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly.

Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Then, enjoy these warm Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Tips for Success

Chill your butter and water for a flakier crust.

Don’t skip the resting time for the dough; it’s essential!
Use a variety of apples for a more complex flavor.
For a fun twist, sprinkle some sugar on top before baking.

Keep an eye on the oven; every oven is different!

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients; a stand mixer works too.
Pastry cutter: For cutting in butter; you can also use your fingers.

Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out dough; a wine bottle can work in a pinch.
Round cutter: To cut dough circles; a glass or jar can substitute.
Baking sheet: For baking the hand pies; line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Variations

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for a delightful crunch.
Spiced Up: Experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or allspice for a warm, cozy flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.

Vegan Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter and a flax egg for the egg wash.
Berry Twist: Mix in some fresh or frozen berries with the apples for a fruity explosion.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.

Pair with a cup of hot apple cider or a spiced chai for a cozy treat.
Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
Enjoy with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.

For a brunch option, serve alongside fresh fruit and yogurt.

FAQs about Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This way, you can whip up your Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies whenever the craving strikes!

What type of apples are best for hand pies?

I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination gives your filling a delightful balance of flavors. Plus, it keeps things interesting!

Can I freeze the hand pies?

Yes! These hand pies freeze beautifully. Just assemble them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I know when the hand pies are done baking?

Look for a beautiful golden brown color on the tops. The aroma will also fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist! If you’re unsure, you can always cut one open to check the filling.

Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of making my own?

Of course! If you’re short on time, store-bought pie crust is a great shortcut. Just roll it out and follow the same steps for filling and baking. Your Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies will still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

Making Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The joy of rolling out dough, filling it with sweet, spiced apples, and watching them turn golden in the oven is truly rewarding. Each bite is a reminder of cozy family gatherings and the simple pleasures of life. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring one alone with a cup of tea, these hand pies bring warmth and happiness. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delightful recipe. You’ll be glad you did, and your taste buds will thank you!