From Scratch: The Easiest Way To Make Fried Apple Pies

Indulge in the sweet and savory flavors of homemade fried apple pies! This classic dessert is a culinary delight that can be enjoyed any time of the year. With a crispy exterior and a warm, gooey filling, these pies are sure to satisfy your taste buds. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of making fried apple pies from scratch, ensuring you create perfect pies every time.

Gather Your Ingredients

For the pie crust:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup ice water

For the apple filling:

• 6 cups peeled and sliced apples (about 3 large apples)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

For frying:

• Vegetable oil or shortening

Make the Pie Crust

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add the butter pieces and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work them into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
4. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Apple Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Toss to coat.
2. Let the filling rest for at least 15 minutes to allow the apples to release their juices.

Roll Out the Dough

1. On a lightly floured surface, divide the dough in half.
2. Roll out each half into a 12-inch circle.

Assemble the Pies

1. Place one circle of dough on a lightly greased baking sheet.
2. Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Brush the edges of the dough with water.
4. Place the remaining circle of dough over the filling.
5. Crimp the edges together to seal.
6. Cut slits in the top of the pie to allow steam to escape.

Fry the Pies

1. In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat the oil to 375°F (190°C).
2. Carefully place the pies in the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
3. Drain the pies on paper towels.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the fried apple pies warm with your favorite toppings, such as whipped cream, ice cream, or caramel sauce. Savor the crispy crust and the sweet, gooey filling that will melt in your mouth.

Tips for Perfect Fried Apple Pies

• Use a sharp knife to thinly slice the apples for a more tender filling.
• Don’t overmix the dough, as this will result in a tough crust.
• Let the dough rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This will make it easier to work with and prevent it from shrinking.
• Fry the pies in hot oil to achieve a crispy exterior.
• Drain the pies thoroughly on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Variations

• Add a pinch of salt to the apple filling to enhance the sweetness.
• Sprinkle brown sugar over the top of the pies before frying for a caramelized crust.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to the center of each pie for a decadent treat.

FAQ

Q: How can I make the filling ahead of time?
A: The apple filling can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover it and refrigerate until ready to use.

Q: Can I use other fruits in the filling?
A: Yes, you can substitute other fruits, such as peaches, blueberries, or cherries, for the apples.

Q: What is the best way to store fried apple pies?
A: Store the pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes before serving.