Fried Apple Pies Recipe

Apples: Peeled and diced to provide the sweet and tart filling for the pies.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the apple mixture.

Cinnamon: Provides a warm, spicy flavor that complements the apples.

Nutmeg: Adds a hint of nutty spice to the filling.

Butter: Used to cook the apple mixture until tender.

Pie crusts: Refrigerated dough that forms the outer shell of the pies.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the pies to a golden brown.

When preparing the apple mixture, make sure to dice the apples into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture in each fried pie. Additionally, when sealing the pie crusts, use a fork to crimp the edges. This not only helps to secure the filling but also adds a decorative touch to your fried apple pies.

• apples - Substitute with pears: Pears have a similar texture and sweetness when cooked, making them a good alternative.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and adds a slight floral note to the filling.

• cinnamon - Substitute with allspice: Allspice has a warm, spicy flavor that can mimic the taste of cinnamon in recipes.

• nutmeg - Substitute with mace: Mace has a similar flavor profile to nutmeg but is slightly more intense, making it a good substitute.

• butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used in place of butter for a similar texture and flavor in the filling.

• refrigerated pie crusts - Substitute with puff pastry: Puff pastry can provide a flaky, buttery crust that works well for fried pies.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it suitable for frying.

• Allow the fried apple pies to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the crust soggy.
• Place the cooled pies in an airtight container. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The apple filling will stay fresh, and the crust will maintain its texture.
• For longer storage, consider freezing. Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap to protect against freezer burn.
• After wrapping, place the pies in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the pies in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture of the pie crust.
• Reheat the pies in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will crisp up the crust and warm the apple filling.
• Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust chewy instead of crispy.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover fried apple pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes until they are heated through and the crust is crispy again. This method ensures the pies retain their delightful crunch and warm apple filling.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the fried apple pies in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't overcook. This method is quick and keeps the pies crispy.

• Microwave Method: Place the fried apple pies on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. This method is the fastest but may result in a softer crust.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the fried apple pies in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the pies' crispiness while reheating the filling evenly.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

• Frying pan: Melt the butter and cook the apple mixture until the apples are tender.

• Rolling pin: Roll out the pie crusts to the desired thickness.

• Circle cutter: Cut the rolled-out pie crusts into circles.

• Spoon: Place a spoonful of the apple mixture in the center of each dough circle.

• Fork: Press the edges of the dough to seal the pies.

• Frying pan: Heat the oil and fry the pies until golden brown on both sides.

• Paper towels: Drain the fried pies to remove excess oil.

• Tongs: Use these to safely handle the pies while frying and draining.

Prepare the filling: Cook the apple mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. This allows you to assemble the pies quickly when ready to fry.

Use pre-made crusts: Opt for refrigerated pie crusts to save time on dough preparation.

Uniform shape: Use a cookie cutter to cut the pie crusts into uniform circles, ensuring even cooking.

Batch frying: Fry multiple pies at once to reduce overall cooking time.

Drain efficiently: Use a cooling rack over paper towels to drain excess oil quickly and keep the pies crispy.