Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies

Name: Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1 box refrigerated pie crusts (2 sheets), thawed; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 tablespoon milk; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; Powdered sugar or glaze, optional, for drizzling

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: October 17, 2025

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Introduction to Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies

Being a mom on-the-go myself, I totally get it- quick yummy treats are a must. So here it is, my recipe for Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies. Little pockets of spiced apply goodness to really hit the spot when that sweet tooth strikes for a snack or dessert. Just think about giving your loved ones or friends these warm and flaky hand pies-they’re going to be awestruck; you are not going to spend hours at your oven. Not to forget, air fryer further helps in turning most moments into special occasions by quickly preparing these.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies

These Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies are a game changer for busy days! Not only are they incredibly easy to prepare, but they also cook up in a flash—perfect for those moments when you need a quick sweet treat. With each crunchy bite, you’ll enjoy the warm, spiced apple filling that feels like a hug from the inside. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies

To make these delightful Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll be gathering:

Apples: Two medium ones, peeled and diced. Crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji work wonderfully. They lend a natural sweetness and great texture.
Brown Sugar: Just a couple of tablespoons to sprinkle in some rich caramel notes. You can replace it with maple syrup for a twist.
Lemon Juice: A teaspoon adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the apples. Freshly squeezed is always best!
Ground Cinnamon: A teaspoon brings warmth and nostalgia to your filling. It’s like a hug in flavor form!
Ground Nutmeg: For an extra hint of spice, a half teaspoon will do the trick. It works wonders paired with cinnamon.
Cornstarch: Just a teaspoon to help thicken that delicious apple filling, making it less runny.
Refrigerated Pie Crusts: You’ll need one box with two sheets. They save time and come out flaky—perfect for hand pies! You can also use homemade if you prefer.
Egg: A large, beaten egg is essential for that shiny, golden finish. It’s what makes your hand pies look irresistible!
Milk: Just a tablespoon, mixed into the egg for your wash. It helps give a nice color and sheen.
Granulated Sugar: A sprinkle on top adds sweetness and a little crunch.
Optional Decoration: Feel free to drizzle powdered sugar or glaze over the finished pies for an added touch of sweetness.

You can find exact measurements at the bottom of the article, perfect for printing out and keeping on hand while you whip up these tasty treats!

How to Make Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies

Prepare Spiced Apple Filling

Let’s dive into making that delicious spiced apple filling! Start by combining diced apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Cook this mixture over medium heat for about 5 to 6 minutes. You want the apples to soften and let the filling thicken nicely. It should smell heavenly! Just remember to remove it from heat and let it cool completely before using it. If it’s warm, it could threaten the crispness of your pastry.

Shape Pastry Rounds

Next up, let’s get those pastry rounds ready. Unroll both sheets of refrigerated pie crust on a floured surface. Using a 4 to 5-inch round cutter or even a glass, cut out 8 equal rounds. If you’re wondering about those scraps, don’t toss them! Gather them up, re-roll and cut as needed to ensure you have enough rounds for all the filling. It’s all about maximizing your deliciousness!

Fill and Seal Hand Pies

Now, it’s time for the fun part—filling those hand pies! Take approximately 1 tablespoon of the cooled apple filling and place it right in the center of 4 pastry rounds. Then, cover each one with a second round. You’ll want to press the edges firmly with a fork to seal them tight. This way, you keep all that delicious filling tucked inside. It’s a bit like a warm hug waiting to happen!

Apply Egg Wash and Sugar

To achieve that beautiful golden color, we’ll need an egg wash! In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and milk. Then, brush this mixture over the tops of each sealed hand pie. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little granulated sugar on top! This not only adds sweetness but gives a lovely crunch when you bite in. Who can resist a little extra sparkle?

Preheat Air Fryer

Before we start cooking, it’s crucial to preheat your air fryer. Set it to 350°F and let it warm up for about 3 minutes. Preheating helps ensure that your hand pies cook evenly. Trust me; the last thing you want is a not-quite-cooked center!

Air Fry to Golden Perfection

Now, for the moment you’ve been waiting for! Arrange your hand pies in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on your fryer’s size, you may need to do this in batches. Air fry them for about 10 to 12 minutes, checking to see when they turn a beautiful golden brown. They should come out nice and crisp! The scent wafting through your kitchen will leave everyone eagerly anticipating the first bite.

Cool and Finish

Once your hand pies are golden and gorgeous, allow them to cool slightly before serving. This will help the filling settle a bit. If you’re feeling fancy, dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with a glaze for that extra touch of elegance. Now, you’re all set to enjoy these little bites of heaven!

Tips for Success

Make sure your filling is completely cooled to avoid sogginess in the pastry.
Don’t skip the egg wash—it’s what gives your hand pies a mouthwatering golden hue!
Feel free to adjust the spices to fit your flavor preference; try adding ginger for a zesty kick!
Keep an eye on the cooking time; every air fryer is different, and you want them perfectly crisp!
For extra crunch, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before air frying.

Equipment Needed

Air Fryer: Essential for that perfect crispy texture. A conventional oven can work in a pinch but won’t give the same results.
Small Saucepan: To cook your apple filling. If you don’t have one, a skillet will also do.
Round Cutter or Glass: You’ll need this to cut your pastry rounds. A sharp knife can substitute if necessary.
Whisk: For mixing the egg wash. You can use a fork in a pinch!

Variations of Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies

Change the Fruit: Swap out apples for other fruits like pears, peaches, or cherries for a new twist on flavor.
Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pie crusts to make these hand pies suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Add Nuts: Mix in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor in your filling.
Spice it Up: Try adding a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a surprise kick in your sweet filling.
Vegan Option: Replace the egg wash with a plant-based milk option and use a vegan pie crust.
Try Savory Fillings: Experiment with savory fillings like cheese and herbs, or sautéed vegetables for a non-sweet version.

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies

Ice Cream: Serve warm hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
Coffee or Tea: Pair these treats with a warm cup of coffee or your favorite herbal tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
Presentation: Arrange the hand pies on a rustic wooden board, dusted with powdered sugar, for an inviting look.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream on the side elevates the sweetness!

FAQs about Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies

Can I use frozen pie crusts for Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them before using. Frozen crusts can save you time and still yield delicious results.

What kind of apples work best for this recipe?

Honeycrisp and Fuji apples are my favorites because they’re sweet and hold up well when cooked. But feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties!

How do I store leftover hand pies?

Store any leftover hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them. Just reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore that crispiness!

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Definitely! You can make the spiced apple filling a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and let it come to room temperature before filling your hand pies.

What can I add to the filling for extra flavor?

Feel free to mix in nuts, raisins, or even a splash of vanilla extract to elevate your filling! This allows you to tailor the flavor to your preference.

Final Thoughts on Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies

Making Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies is not just about whipping up a quick dessert; it’s an experience filled with warmth and joy. The delightful aroma as they cook fills your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that invites everyone to gather around. Each warm, flaky hand pie is like a hug wrapped in pastry, bursting with spiced apple goodness. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these hand pies turn ordinary moments into something special. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll quickly become a favorite that you’ll want to revisit time and time again!