Apple Hand Pies

Apple Hand Pies are little pockets of sweet, tender apples wrapped in flaky, buttery crusts. Each pie is perfectly sized to hold in your hand, making it a fun and…

By Fatima • September 8, 2025 • Reading time: 7 min

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Apple Hand Pies are little pockets of sweet, tender apples wrapped in flaky, buttery crusts. Each pie is perfectly sized to hold in your hand, making it a fun and easy treat to enjoy anytime. The warm cinnamon and sugar-spiced apples inside give these pies a cozy, comforting flavor that instantly reminds me of fall afternoons.

I love making these pies because they feel like a special homemade gift in every bite. I usually like to add a sprinkle of sugar on top before baking to give the crust a nice sparkle and crunch. It’s such a simple detail but really makes the pies stand out. Plus, the smell filling the kitchen as they bake is one of my favorite parts!

These hand pies are great for sharing or taking on the go since they don’t need plates or forks. I often pack them for a picnic or bring a few to friends as a surprise snack. They’re perfect just on their own, but a little scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side definitely wouldn’t hurt if you’re feeling indulgent.

How Do You Get Flaky Crusts and Avoid Soggy Apple Filling?

The key to flaky crusts and a perfect filling is balancing moisture and sealing properly:

• Don’t overmix the filling: Toss apples with sugars and flour gently to coat but not crush them.
• Add flour: This helps absorb juices that the apples will release while baking, keeping the crust from getting soggy.
• Keep the dough cold: Roll it out on a cool surface and don’t handle the dough too much to keep it flaky.
• Seal edges well: Press edges firmly with a fork to avoid leaks during baking.
• Cut slits on top: These small vents let steam escape, preventing sogginess and helping the filling thicken properly.
• Dot with butter: Small butter pieces inside the filling melt during baking, adding flavor and richness.

Following these tips helps you get beautifully golden, crisp pies with tender, perfectly cooked apples inside!

Equipment You’ll Need

• Rolling pin – makes it easy to roll out the pie dough evenly without tearing.
• Round cookie cutter or small bowl – perfect for cutting uniform dough circles for your hand pies.
• Baking sheet – a flat surface to bake your pies evenly and catch any drips.
• Parchment paper – prevents the pies from sticking to the baking sheet and makes cleanup simple.
• Fork – helps seal the edges of each pie securely and adds a nice decorative touch.
• Pastry brush – great for brushing the egg wash on top to get that golden, shiny crust.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap apples for pears or peaches for a juicy sweetness with a different twist.
• Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries to the filling for bursts of chewy texture.
• Stir in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Mix in a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom along with cinnamon to warm up the spice profile.

How to Make Apple Hand Pies

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For The Filling:

• 2 large apples (a mix of tart and sweet like Granny Smith and Fuji), peeled, cored, and finely chopped (about 2 cups)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (to thicken the filling)

For The Dough and Topping:

• 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade pie dough)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Coarse sugar, for sprinkling on top

How Much Time Will You Need?

Getting these delicious apple hand pies ready takes around 15 minutes of prep time plus about 25 to 30 minutes of baking. You’ll want to allow 10 minutes for them to cool before digging in—so all together, roughly 45 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan:

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the pies from sticking.

2. Make the Apple Filling:

In a large bowl, toss the chopped apples with lemon juice to stop them from browning. Mix in granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour until the apples are evenly coated. The flour helps keep the filling nice and thick when baked.

3. Cut and Fill the Dough:

Lightly flour your surface and roll the pie crust a bit thinner. Use a round cutter (4-5 inches wide) to cut circles. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of apple filling onto one half of each dough circle. Add a small dot of butter on top of the filling for extra yumminess.

4. Seal the Hand Pies:

Fold the dough over the filling to make a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together with a fork to seal the pies so none of the filling can escape.

5. Prepare for Baking:

Place the pies on your lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg—this helps make the crust shiny and golden. Sprinkle with coarse sugar for a sweet, crunchy finish. Cut a few tiny slits in each pie’s top to let steam escape while baking.

6. Bake and Cool:

Bake in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for golden brown crusts and the filling bubbling inside. Let the hand pies cool for about 10 minutes before enjoying—they’re warm, flaky, and just perfect for holding in your hand!