Fried Apple Pies: A Sweet Southern Treat
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8 pies
Introduction: A Taste of Nostalgia
Fried apple pies are a delightful Southern classic that brings back memories of childhood and family gatherings. These mini pies feature a crispy, golden crust enveloping a warm, cinnamon-spiced apple filling. Perfect for dessert or as a sweet snack, these fried apple pies are sure to satisfy your cravings and bring a smile to your face.
Why You’ll Love Fried Apple Pies
- Crispy and Delicious: The fried crust is perfectly crispy, providing a delightful contrast to the soft, sweet apple filling.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different spices or add other fruits to the filling for a unique twist.
- Quick to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these pies can be whipped up in no time!
- Perfect for Sharing: They make a great dessert for gatherings, parties, or just a fun family treat.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cold water
For the Apple Filling:
- 3 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
How to Make Fried Apple Pies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
In a medium bowl, toss the diced apples with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), lemon juice, and cornstarch. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter (about 4 inches in diameter) to cut out circles. Repeat with the second disc of dough. You should have about 16 rounds total.
Step 4: Fill the Pies
Place a tablespoon of the apple filling in the center of each dough round. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Step 6: Fry the Pies
Carefully place a few pies in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the pies to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 7: Serve
Allow the fried apple pies to cool slightly before serving. They are delicious warm, and you can dust them with powdered sugar or serve with vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Pair with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy snack.
- Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce for added sweetness.
Tips for Perfect Fried Apple Pies
- Use Firm Apples: Choose apples that hold their shape when cooked, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the best texture.
- Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling the pies, as this can make sealing difficult and lead to leakage during frying.
- Monitor Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough to fry the pies without absorbing too much oil, resulting in a soggy crust.
FAQs
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the filled pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover fried apple pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze these pies?
Absolutely! Freeze unfilled, sealed pies on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to eat, fry them straight from the freezer for a quick treat.