How to Make Apple Hand Pies: The Easiest, Coziest Fall Treat You’ll Ever Bake

Have you ever taken a bite of something so warm, flaky, and sweet it instantly brought back a memory?
What if I told you that memory could be baked in under an hour—right in your own kitchen?

Apple Hand Pies are that kind of magic. Whether you’re craving a cozy fall snack, planning a kid-friendly dessert, or just want an easy apple recipe that won’t take all day, this one’s for you. Let’s break it all down—step by step—with a recipe so simple anyone can make it, and everyone will love it.

What Makes Apple Hand Pies So Special?

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Apple Hand Pies are like the portable cousin of the classic apple pie. You get all the same sweet, spiced filling and buttery crust—but in a hand-held size that’s perfect for snacking, packing, or sharing.
Here’s why this recipe is a keeper:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: About 45 minutes
• Skill Level: Super easy (even if you’ve never baked before)

These hand pies are crisp on the outside, gooey on the inside, and packed with cozy apple cinnamon flavor.

Essential Ingredients (and Easy Substitutions)

Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect Apple Hand Pies:

• Pie dough (2 rounds, store-bought or homemade)
  Substitute: Puff pastry works great for a flakier, lighter crust.
• Apples (2 medium, peeled and diced)
  Best types: Granny Smith (for tartness), Honeycrisp (for sweetness), or a mix.
  Substitute: Pears or peaches for a seasonal twist.
• Brown sugar (¼ cup)
  Substitute: White sugar or coconut sugar.
• Cinnamon (1 tsp)
  Optional additions: Nutmeg, clove, or apple pie spice.
• Lemon juice (1 tbsp)
  Helps balance the sweetness and keep apples from browning.
• All-purpose flour (1 tbsp)
  Helps thicken the filling so it doesn’t leak out.
• Egg (1, beaten)
  For brushing the crust to get that golden, glossy finish.
  Substitute: Milk or heavy cream if you prefer no eggs.
• Coarse sugar (optional)
  For sprinkling on top and adding a sweet crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

In a small mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and flour. Toss until the apples are well coated and the mixture starts to thicken slightly.

Pro Tip: Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes while you prep the dough. This helps draw out the apple juices and makes the filling more flavorful.

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pie dough. Using a round cookie cutter (about 4-5 inches wide), cut out circles. Reroll any scraps to make more circles.

You should get about 10–12 circles from two 9-inch pie crusts.

Step 4: Fill the Pies

Place 1–2 tablespoons of apple filling in the center of half the circles. Don’t overfill—just enough to pack the flavor but still leave space around the edges.

Step 5: Seal and Crimp

Top each filled circle with another dough round. Press the edges together using your fingers, then crimp them with a fork to seal.

Cut a small slit or “X” in the top of each pie to let steam escape while baking.

How to Assemble and Bake Your Hand Pies

Place the sealed hand pies on your prepared baking sheet.

• Brush the tops with beaten egg.
• Sprinkle with coarse sugar (optional for texture and shine).
• Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Let them cool for 5 minutes before eating—but they’re best warm!

Presentation Tip: Serve them on a wooden board or in a small basket lined with a cloth napkin for a cozy, rustic look.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Room Temperature: Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Fridge: Keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked hand pies on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen—just add 5–7 more minutes to the bake time.
• Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5–8 minutes, or microwave for 30 seconds.

Easy Variations to Try

Want to mix it up? Try one of these delicious twists:

• Caramel Apple Hand Pies: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce into the filling before sealing.
• Apple-Cranberry: Mix in a handful of dried cranberries for a tangy burst.
• Cheddar Apple: Add a thin slice of sharp cheddar inside—sounds strange, but it’s incredible!
• Glazed Version: Skip the sugar topping and drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze after baking.

Conclusion: Give Them a Try!

Apple Hand Pies are more than just a dessert—they’re an experience. Whether you’re baking with kids, prepping for a holiday gathering, or just craving a cozy snack, this recipe is a foolproof favorite.
Once you make them, you’ll want to try all the variations—and maybe even create your own.

So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and bring on the apples!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use canned pie filling instead of fresh apples?
Yes! If you’re in a hurry, canned apple pie filling works just fine. Just chop it up a bit for easier sealing.

Are these hand pies healthy?
They’re a treat, but using fresh apples and cutting back on sugar can make them a bit healthier than store-bought pastries.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prep and freeze them, then bake when ready. They’re great for making ahead for holidays or parties.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes! Just use a gluten-free pie dough and double-check your flour thickener and other ingredients.

What apples are best for this recipe?
Granny Smiths hold their shape and have a tart bite. Honeycrisp or Fuji add natural sweetness. You can even mix them.