The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade)

Craving fried apple pies this Fall season? Then try my Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade)! These delicious, old-fashioned, Amish-style fried apple pies are perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday celebrations. With a tender, flaky crust and a warm, spiced apple filling, these treats will surely become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet and tart apples infused with cinnamon creates an irresistible filling.
• Homemade Goodness: Made from scratch using simple ingredients, you’ll feel the warmth of tradition with every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, these pies are sure to impress guests.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties or add nuts for extra crunch.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in less than an hour, you can whip these up when cravings strike!

Tools and Preparation

To make the Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade), you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. These tools help streamline the cooking process and ensure your pies come out perfectly every time.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter
• Rolling pin
• Deep fryer or deep saucepan
• Whisk

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without making a mess.
• Pastry cutter: This tool helps incorporate butter into flour quickly, ensuring a flaky pie crust.
• Deep fryer or deep saucepan: Ensures even frying temperature for perfectly crispy pies.

Ingredients

• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced (I recommend 1 Granny Smith and 1 Honeycrisp for balance)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 teaspoons apple cider (or apple juice)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 2 cups self-rising flour, sifted
• 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
• 2 egg yolks
• 1/3 cup HOT milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 Tablespoon milk
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• Vegetable or canola oil, for frying

How to Make The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade)

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by peeling, coring, and dicing the apples into small cubes. Combine the apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until juices begin to form, about 3 minutes. In a separate bowl, mix the apple cider (or juice) with cornstarch. Pour this mixture into the saucepan; increase heat to high and cook for another 3 minutes while stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Pie Dough

Sift the flour into a large mixing bowl. Cut cold butter into small cubes and use a pastry cutter to mix it into the flour until it resembles tiny lumps. In another bowl, combine egg yolks with salt. Heat milk in the microwave until steaming hot. Gradually pour hot milk into the egg mixture while stirring continuously.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture; stir until dough forms. Place on parchment paper and knead gently for about one minute until smooth.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Divide dough into six equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Use a rolling pin or glass to roll each ball into circles—don’t worry about perfect shapes as excess will be cut away later.

Step 5: Fill and Seal

Spoon two tablespoons of apple filling onto each circle of dough. Fold in half; pinch edges together to seal. If desired, trim excess dough using a pastry wheel or pizza cutter. Crimp edges with a fork to secure filling during frying.

Step 6: Fry the Pies

Heat oil in deep fryer or saucepan to 350 degrees F. To check readiness without a thermometer, insert a wooden spoon; if bubbles form around it, oil is ready. Carefully add pies one at a time; fry for about two minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer fried pies to paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 7: Prepare Glaze

While pies fry, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. It’s best to glaze while pies are warm—use a pastry brush for even coverage or drizzle icing on top.

Step 8: Enjoy

Allow glaze to set for a few minutes before indulging in your delicious homemade fried apple pies!

How to Serve The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade)

Serving fried apple pies can be as delightful as making them. These sweet treats are perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply enjoying at home with a cup of coffee or tea. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing that complements the warmth and sweetness of the fried pies.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A warm caramel drizzle adds an extra layer of flavor and richness that enhances each bite.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream can balance the sweetness, making it a delicious topping option.

Served with Fresh Fruit

• Pairing with sliced strawberries or berries adds freshness and a pop of color to your dessert plate.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

• A light dusting of powdered sugar brings an elegant touch and additional sweetness to your fried pies.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange several fried apple pies on a platter for an inviting display at parties or gatherings.

How to Perfect The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade)

Perfecting your fried apple pies is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results every time.

• Use fresh apples: Select apples that are firm and flavorful for the best filling.
• Avoid overfilling: Be careful not to overstuff the pie dough; this can cause them to burst while frying.
• Test your oil temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying; too cool will lead to greasy pies.
• Seal edges well: Pinching and crimping edges securely helps keep the filling from leaking during cooking.
• Let cool slightly before glazing: Allowing the pies to cool for just a moment helps the glaze adhere better.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or ginger for added flavor in your apple filling.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade)

Fried apple pies can be enjoyed as is, but they also pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some delicious options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast with warm fried apple pies.
2. Caramel Sauce
   Serve alongside a small bowl of caramel sauce for dipping or drizzling over the pies.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad brings brightness and freshness, balancing the sweetness of the pies.
4. Coffee or Tea
   Brewed coffee or herbal tea offers a warm beverage option that complements dessert beautifully.
5. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses pairs surprisingly well, offering savory notes alongside sweet flavors.
6. Chocolate Sauce
   For chocolate lovers, provide chocolate sauce for dipping, adding another flavor dimension.
7. Biscotti or Cookies
   Crunchy biscotti or cookies can provide texture contrast when served alongside your pies.
8. Nut Mix
   A mix of roasted nuts can add crunchiness and savory elements to balance out your dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making fried apple pies can be simple, but there are common mistakes that could affect your results. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid for the best outcome.

• Using the wrong apples: Selecting apples that are too soft can lead to mushy filling. Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for perfect texture.
• Overfilling the pies: Adding too much filling can cause the pies to burst while frying. Stick to about 2 tablespoons of filling per pie to ensure they cook evenly.
• Neglecting dough thickness: Rolling out the dough too thick will make it hard to fry properly. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch for a crispy crust.
• Frying at the wrong temperature: If your oil isn’t hot enough, the pies will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Ensure the oil is around 350°F for optimal frying.
• Skipping the glaze: Not glazing your pies can lead to a less appealing finish. Glaze them while they’re still warm for a deliciously sweet touch.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow pies to cool completely before sealing them in order to prevent sogginess.

Freezing The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade)

• Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped pies in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and place on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat one pie at a time on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade) gluten-free?

You can substitute self-rising flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for similar results.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like peaches or berries, but adjust sugar levels according to their sweetness.

How do I know when my oil is hot enough?

You can use the wooden spoon trick; if small bubbles form around the handle when placed in the oil, it’s ready for frying.

What’s the best way to serve these fried apple pies?

These pies are delicious served warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on the side!

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make and freeze them ahead of time, then reheat them when you’re ready to enjoy.

Conclusion

The Best Fried Apple Pies Recipe (Homemade) is not only delicious but also versatile enough to customize with different fruits or spices. These treats are perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. Try this recipe today and impress your friends and family with your homemade delight!

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