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- 2 cups of peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp recommended) - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted - 1 package of refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade pie crust) - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) - 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for egg wash)

Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies

Indulge in the warmth of fall with homemade cinnamon apple hand pies! These delightful pastries feature a flaky crust and a spiced apple filling, making them perfect for gatherings or a cozy snack. Packed with Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples, sugar, and cinnamon, each bite delivers a nostalgic taste of comfort. Follow our simple recipe to create these golden delights and impress your family and friends with your baking skills. Treat yourself today!

Ingredients
  

2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade pie dough)

1 large egg (for egg wash)

1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

    Prepare the Apple Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, lemon juice, and salt. Cook this mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften but retain their shape. Once done, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until melted. Allow the filling to cool slightly while you prepare the crusts.

      Roll Out the Pie Crust: On a lightly floured surface, unroll the pie crusts. If you're using homemade dough, roll it out to about 1/8-inch thickness. With a sharp knife or round cutter, cut the dough into circles that are approximately 5-6 inches in diameter.

        Fill the Hand Pies: Take a generous tablespoon of the cooled apple mixture and place it in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the pies to burst during baking.

          Seal the Pies: Gently fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal and then use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish. Repeat this process with the remaining dough circles and filling.

            Prepare for Baking: In a small bowl, combine the egg and milk to create an egg wash. Use a brush to apply this wash over the tops of each hand pie, which will give them a lovely golden color when baked. To allow steam to escape during baking, cut 2-3 small slits on the top of each pie.

              Bake the Hand Pies: Place the filled and brushed hand pies onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.

                Cool and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the hand pies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Before serving, you can dust them lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant touch, if desired.

                  Enjoy: Serve the hand pies warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of delicious caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 8 hand pies

                      Presentation Tips: Arrange the hand pies on a serving platter, and add sprigs of mint or apple slices for a fresh touch. Enjoy!