Deliciously crispy fried apple pies filled with a sweet cinnamon apple filling, perfect for dessert or a snack.
Servings 4servings
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Ingredients
For the Dough
2cupsall-purpose floursifted
½teaspoonsalt
1tablespoongranulated sugar
½cupunsalted buttercold and cubed
¼cupcold watermore if needed
For the Filling
3mediumapplespeeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
¼cupbrown sugarpacked
1teaspoonground cinnamon
1tablespoonlemon juiceto prevent browning
1tablespooncornstarchfor thickening
¼cupwaterto help cook the apples
For Frying
4cupsvegetable oilfor frying
For Dusting
¼cupgranulated sugarfor dusting
1teaspoonground cinnamon
Method
Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sifted flour, salt, and granulated sugar. This will ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for a flaky crust.
Gradually add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. You may need to add more water if the dough is too dry.
Once the dough is formed, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out.
Prepare the Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, cornstarch, and water.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and creates a nice filling consistency.
Remove from heat and let the filling cool while you roll out the dough.
Assemble the Pies
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛ inch thick. Use a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
Place a tablespoon of the apple filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the pies to burst during frying.
Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp with a fork for a decorative touch.
Fry the Pies
In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying.
Carefully place a few pies in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
Using a slotted spoon, remove the pies from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Dust and Serve
In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon for dusting.
While the pies are still warm, sprinkle the sugar mixture over them for added sweetness.
Serve warm and enjoy your delicious fried apple pies!