Fried Apple or Peach Pies

Fried Apple or Peach Pies are delightful, hand-held treats that combine the crispness of a flaky crust with a sweet, spiced fruit filling. These hand pies are perfect for a dessert, a snack, or even a special breakfast treat. With a touch of cinnamon and a creamy glaze, they offer a burst of flavor in every bite.

Overview of the Recipe

This recipe uses refrigerated pie crusts for convenience and a can of peach pie filling, making it quick and easy to prepare. The pies are baked until golden brown and then coated in a sweet powdered sugar glaze. The combination of the warm, spiced fruit filling and the crispy crust makes these pies irresistible.

History and Origin

Hand pies have been a beloved treat in various cultures for centuries, known for their portability and ease of eating. The concept of enclosing a sweet or savory filling in dough and frying or baking it dates back to ancient times. In the United States, fried pies became popular in the South, often made with seasonal fruits. This recipe offers a baked version that captures the essence of traditional fried pies while being easier to prepare.

Ingredients

Hand Pies:

  • 2 boxes (14.1 oz each) refrigerated pie crust
  • 1 can (21 oz) peach pie filling (or apple pie filling)
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 egg white, beaten

Glaze:

  • 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup milk

Instructions

Preheat Oven

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Remove the pie crusts from the package and allow them to come to room temperature while you prepare the filling.

Prepare Filling

  1. Dice the Peaches: Dump the peach pie filling into a shallow bowl. Use a fork and knife to dice the peaches into small pieces.
  2. Add Cinnamon: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the diced peaches and mix until well blended. Set aside.

Cut Pie Crusts

  1. Cut Circles: Unroll the pie crusts and cut 6 circles from each crust using a 4-inch biscuit cutter. You may need to re-roll the scraps to get the 6th circle.

Assemble Hand Pies

  1. Add Filling: Using a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop, drop the peach pie filling into the center of each pie crust circle.
  2. Fold and Seal: Fold the pie crust circle in half over the filling and pinch the edges to seal. Fold the pinched edges over and press with the tines of a fork to secure the seal. Poke each hand pie once with a fork to prevent bursting.

Egg Wash

  1. Prepare Egg Wash: Beat the egg white in a small bowl until frothy. Brush the tops of each hand pie with the egg wash.

Bake

  1. Bake the Hand Pies: Place the hand pies on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, spaced 1 inch apart. Bake for about 15 minutes or until browned.

Prepare Glaze

  1. Make the Glaze: While the pies are baking, whisk together 2 ½ cups of powdered sugar and ¼ cup of milk until smooth.

Glaze Pies

  1. Coat in Glaze: Remove the cooked pies from the baking sheet. While they are still warm, dip them into the glaze, coating completely. Use two forks to flip them in the glaze and then carefully remove them. Return the glazed pies to the parchment paper and allow them to set for about 5 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve: Once the glaze has set, your Fried Apple or Peach Pies are ready to enjoy. Serve them warm or at room temperature.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Fried Apple or Peach Pies are delightful on their own, but here are some pairing suggestions to elevate the experience:

  • Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve the warm pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  • Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the dense pies.
  • Hot Beverage: Pair with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a spiced cider for a cozy treat.

Variations of the Recipe

To add some variety to this classic recipe, consider these delicious variations:

  • Berry Hand Pies: Use a mixed berry pie filling instead of peach or apple.
  • Nutty Filling: Add a handful of chopped nuts to the pie filling for added texture and flavor.
  • Spiced Filling: Enhance the filling with additional spices like nutmeg or cloves for a more complex flavor.

Health Benefits

While these pies are a sweet indulgence, there are a few benefits:

  • Fruit Filling: The peach or apple filling provides vitamins and fiber.
  • Homemade Touch: By making these pies at home, you can control the ingredients and avoid preservatives found in store-bought versions.

Notes

  • Storage: Store any leftover pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator.
  • Reheating: Reheat the pies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness.
  • Freezing: These pies can be frozen before baking. Assemble and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, no need to thaw; just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pie crust?

Yes, you can use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated crust for a more personalized touch.

What if I don’t have a 4-inch biscuit cutter?

You can use a similar-sized bowl or cup to cut the circles if you don’t have a biscuit cutter.

Can I use fresh peaches or apples?

Yes, you can use fresh fruit. Just cook the fruit with some sugar and spices until soft before using it as filling.

How can I prevent the pies from leaking?

Ensure the edges are well-sealed and poke the top with a fork to allow steam to escape.

Can I make these pies gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free pie crust and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Fried Apple or Peach Pies are a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that combines the best of a flaky crust and sweet, spiced fruit filling. Perfect for any occasion, these hand pies are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the rich flavors and crispy texture of this delicious treat, and add it to your repertoire of go-to desserts!

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