Fried Apple Pies Recipe

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Golden, flaky, and filled with warm, spiced apples—Fried Apple Pies are the definition of classic Southern comfort. Each bite delivers a perfect crunch followed by the rich sweetness of cinnamon-kissed apples wrapped in buttery pastry. These hand pies are a nostalgic treat often found at county fairs, holiday gatherings, and cozy family kitchens. They’re drizzled with a light glaze or dusted with powdered sugar for that extra touch of indulgence.

Whether you’re craving a cozy fall dessert or a quick sweet snack any time of year, fried apple pies offer that made-from-scratch satisfaction without the need for a fork or plate. They’re ideal for potlucks, picnics, or just treating yourself with something special that feels like home.

---

Why You’ll Love This Fried Apple Pies Recipe

• Portable & Shareable: Handheld and easy to pack, these pies are perfect for lunches, road trips, or gifting to neighbors.
• Fast & Fuss-Free: No need to bake a whole pie—this is quicker with the same cozy flavor payoff.
• Irresistible Texture: Crispy on the outside, tender and gooey on the inside.
• Homestyle Flavor: Made with fresh apples and a warm blend of spices for that from-the-kitchen taste.
• Flexible & Fun: Use store-bought or homemade dough, and tweak the filling to your taste.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Their Importance)

Before diving into making these golden pockets of joy, it’s essential to set yourself up for a smooth cooking process. Having the right tools on hand can make all the difference between a soggy disaster and perfectly crisp, golden-brown fried apple pies.

Key Tools & Equipment:

• Rolling Pin: Crucial for flattening out the dough evenly, ensuring the pies cook uniformly.
• Round Cutter (or a bowl/glass): Used to cut out consistent circles of dough for a professional finish.
• Pastry Brush: Helps to brush on egg wash or butter for that extra golden shine and crispy texture.
• Frying Pan/Deep Skillet: A heavy-bottomed pan retains heat well and ensures even frying without hot spots.
• Candy or Fry Thermometer: Keeps oil at the ideal frying temperature (350°F) to avoid greasy or undercooked pies.
• Slotted Spoon or Spider Strainer: Allows you to safely remove the pies from hot oil while draining excess grease.
• Cooling Rack with Paper Towels: Prevents sogginess by letting air circulate around freshly fried pies and absorbs oil.
• Mixing Bowls: For tossing apple filling with sugar and spices or preparing glaze.
• Fork or Crimper Tool: Seals the pie edges, keeping the filling securely inside while frying.

Having these tools not only makes the process easier but also improves the overall consistency and safety of your cooking.

---

Preparation Tips

• Chill Your Dough: Cold dough helps create flakier pies and prevents sticking while rolling. If using store-bought dough, keep it refrigerated until you’re ready.
• Choose the Right Apples: A mix of sweet and tart apples (like Honeycrisp + Granny Smith) gives a balanced, flavorful filling.
• Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting, but too much filling will cause leaks and mess during frying. Stick to about 1–2 tablespoons per pie.
• Seal Edges Properly: Crimp firmly with a fork and consider brushing the edges with a bit of egg wash to act as glue.
• Test Fry First: Fry one pie first to check if your oil temperature is right and your dough is sealed properly.
• Drain Immediately: After frying, move the pies to a paper towel–lined rack to drain excess oil and maintain crispness.
• Optional Glaze or Dusting: A light vanilla glaze or sprinkle of powdered sugar adds an extra dessert-like touch.

These tips will help ensure your fried apple pies turn out just right—crispy, gooey, and absolutely crave-worthy.

---

Ingredients for This Fried Apple Pies Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to create these crispy, golden, flavor-packed fried apple pies from scratch. You can use homemade or store-bought dough based on your time and comfort level.

For the Apple Filling:

• 2 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and finely diced
• 1 medium Honeycrisp apple, peeled, cored, and finely diced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to brighten and balance the sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)

For the Dough:

• 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade pastry dough, chilled and rolled out)
• All-purpose flour, for dusting the surface

For Frying:

• 3–4 cups vegetable oil or canola oil, for deep frying

For Sealing and Brushing:

• 1 egg, beaten (egg wash for sealing and browning)
• 1 tablespoon milk (optional, mixed with egg for a smoother wash)

Optional Glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

This ingredient list yields about 8–10 fried apple pies, depending on your dough size and cutter.

---

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. Stir and cook for about 5–7 minutes until the apples are tender but not mushy.
Mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the apple mixture. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the filling thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

---

Step 2: Roll Out and Cut the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pie dough (if using homemade) to about 1/8-inch thick.
Use a 4 to 5-inch round cutter or a bowl to cut circles from the dough. Gather scraps, re-roll, and cut again if needed.

---

Step 3: Fill and Seal the Pies

Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cooled apple filling into the center of each dough circle.
Brush the edges lightly with egg wash, fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, and press the edges together.
Use a fork to crimp the edges for a secure seal.

---

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Pour oil into a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, filling it about 2 inches deep.
Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor and maintain temperature—too hot will burn the crust, too cool will make the pies greasy.

---

Step 5: Fry the Apple Pies

Carefully place 2–3 pies into the hot oil at a time (don’t overcrowd).
Fry each side for about 2–3 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the pies and place them on a cooling rack lined with paper towels.

---

Step 6: Add the Glaze (Optional)

Whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk to create a smooth glaze.
While the pies are still warm (but not hot), drizzle the glaze over the top.
Alternatively, dust with powdered sugar for a classic finish.

---

Notes

• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the apple filling a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until ready to use.
• Use Leftover Dough: Re-roll the dough scraps to maximize your yield. Just be careful not to overwork it or it will become tough.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of vanilla or a pinch of cloves to the filling for deeper, more complex flavor.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overfilling the Pies: Too much filling will cause leaks and prevent proper sealing, leading to a mess in the oil.
• Not Sealing the Edges Well: A weak seal will allow the filling to escape during frying. Use egg wash and press edges firmly with a fork.
• Using Warm Filling: Hot filling softens the dough, making it harder to seal. Always cool it before assembling.
• Oil Temperature Too Low or High: Too cold, and the pies soak up oil and become greasy. Too hot, and the crust burns before the inside cooks. Keep oil between 350–360°F.
• Crowding the Pan: Fry in small batches to avoid dropping the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
• Skipping the Drain Step: Letting the pies sit in oil post-frying will make them soggy. Always drain on a paper towel–lined rack.
• Not Letting the Dough Chill: Warm dough is harder to handle and won’t crisp up nicely.
• Forgetting to Taste the Filling: Before sealing everything up, taste your filling for sugar and spice balance—it’s easier to fix now than later.

---

What to Serve With Fried Apple Pies?

These hand-held treats are delightful on their own, but pairing them with the right sides and drinks can elevate your dessert game or turn them into a more complete experience. Whether you’re serving them after a cozy dinner or as part of a brunch spread, here are some tasty ideas to complement your fried apple pies.

🍽️ 8 Recommendations

1. Vanilla Ice Cream

A warm fried pie with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream? Pure magic. The contrast of hot and cold is irresistible.

2. Cinnamon Whipped Cream

Skip plain whipped cream and mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal twist that pairs perfectly with apple filling.

3. Salted Caramel Sauce

Drizzle warm caramel over your pies or serve on the side for dipping. It adds a luxurious richness to every bite.

4. Cheddar Cheese

A Southern classic—serve your pie with a thin slice of sharp cheddar. The salty-sweet combo might surprise you.

5. Coffee or Chai Tea

The warm spice in the pies goes wonderfully with a bold cup of coffee or a cozy mug of spiced chai.

6. Apple Cider

Lean into the apple theme with a glass of chilled or warm apple cider. Add a cinnamon stick for flair.

7. Crispy Bacon Strips

If you’re having a brunch moment, pair the pies with salty bacon. Sweet and savory never go out of style.

8. Yogurt Parfait

Balance out the indulgence by serving a mini yogurt parfait with granola and fresh fruit—perfect for breakfast or brunch tables.

---

Storage Instructions

Fried apple pies are best enjoyed fresh, but you can absolutely store leftovers or prep them ahead of time. Here’s how to keep them tasting delicious:

• Room Temperature: Keep cooled pies in an airtight container at room temp for up to 2 days. Add a paper towel underneath to absorb moisture and prevent sogginess.
• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for best texture.
• Freezer (Uncooked): Assemble and freeze the un-fried pies on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Fry straight from frozen—just add 1–2 minutes to the cook time.
• Freezer (Cooked): You can also freeze fully cooked pies. Wrap tightly in foil and place in freezer-safe containers. Reheat in an oven at 350°F until warmed through and crisp.

---

Estimated Nutrition (Per 1 Fried Apple Pie)

These values are estimates and can vary depending on dough type, filling amount, and frying oil absorption.

• Calories: 270–320 kcal
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 17g
• Protein: 2g
• Serving Size: 1 pie
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Southern / American
• Diet: Vegetarian-friendly

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake these instead of frying them?

Yes! Brush the pies with egg wash and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. The texture will be flakier rather than crispy, but still delicious.

2. What kind of apples work best for fried apple pies?

A mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp offers the best balance of flavor and texture.

3. Can I use puff pastry instead of pie dough?

Yes, puff pastry makes a light and flaky version. Just be sure to seal the edges well and watch them carefully while frying or baking.

4. Is it possible to air fry the pies?

Absolutely. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F, brush pies with egg wash, and air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

5. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Let the filling cool completely, avoid overfilling, and always seal edges well with egg wash and a fork crimp.

6. Can I make the dough from scratch?

Definitely. A basic pie crust or buttermilk biscuit dough both work great—just keep it cold for easy handling and a better fry.

7. Do these need to be refrigerated after frying?

Not right away. They’re fine at room temperature for 1–2 days, but refrigerate if storing longer to preserve freshness.

8. What oil is best for frying?

Use neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. Avoid olive oil or butter for frying.

---

Conclusion

Fried Apple Pies bring together everything we love in a dessert—warm spices, tender fruit, and a crisp golden crust—all in a portable, shareable package. Whether you’re new to frying or a seasoned kitchen pro, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. You can keep things simple with store-bought dough or go fully homemade for a rustic touch.

Serve them warm, drizzle on some glaze, or pair them with ice cream, and watch these treats disappear in no time. They’re more than just a snack—they’re a nostalgic bite of homemade happiness.

Now, let’s get into the printable version you can keep on hand or share with friends and family!

---

Print