As the leaves turn vibrant shades of gold and crimson, the craving for cozy, comforting desserts finds its way to my kitchen. Picture this: the satisfying crunch of a golden-brown crust giving way to a warm, spiced apple filling, all infused with the unique zest of SweeTango apples. Yes, it’s time to make Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies!
These delightful little treats are not just a nod to classic apple pie; they are a portable indulgence that brings a little magic to your next gathering or simply satisfies your sweet tooth after a long day. The crispy, flaky exterior dusted with cinnamon sugar is a wonderful contrast to the ooey-gooey apple filling that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking to impress at a potluck or need a quick yet impressive dessert to serve on family movie night, this recipe is your answer.
Let’s dive into the joy of making these fabulous hand pies and rediscover the joys of home cooking that’s both simple and utterly delicious!
Why Try Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies?
Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies are a delicious and unique take on a classic dessert!
Perfectly Portable: Enjoy the joy of apple pie in a hand-held version that’s easy to share or take on-the-go.
Flavor Explosion: The SweeTango apples lend a sweet-tart zing that elevates traditional apple filling to new heights.
Crispy, Flaky Delight: Designed for texture lovers, each bite offers a crunch that complements the gooey, spiced apple center.
Quick & Simple: Ideal for busy weeknights, these hand pies come together faster than you think—perfect for shedding fast food boredom!
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether for gatherings or cozy nights in, everyone will adore these delightful little hand pies!
Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pie Ingredients
For the Dough
• All-purpose Flour – The base structure for the dough; consider using whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor and balances sweetness; no substitutions needed.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough and aids browning; try brown sugar for added depth but watch the texture.
• Shortening – Creates a flaky texture in the pastry; butter can be used for a richer flavor.
• Milk – Provides moisture and richness in the dough; almond milk offers a dairy-free alternative.
• Egg – Acts as a binding agent; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan version.
For the Filling
• SweeTango Apples – The star ingredient, offering a sweet-tart flavor that’s perfect for hand pies; substitute with Granny Smith for more tartness.
• Butter – For sautéing the apples and adding richness to the filling; no substitutions necessary.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds warmth and complexity to the apple filling; cinnamon and nutmeg can be used instead.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the apple filling and keeps the apples from browning; can be omitted if desired.
For Frying
• Canola Oil – Ideal for frying; ensure it’s heated to the proper temperature for the crispiest Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies.
For the Finishing Touch
• Cinnamon Sugar – Sprinkled right after frying for a sweet crunch; a delightful addition to your fried hand pies!
How to Make Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies
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Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, and granulated sugar. Cut in shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk and egg until just combined, then refrigerate for several hours until firm.
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Make the Filling: Peel, core, and dice the SweeTango apples. In a sauté pan, melt butter over medium heat, add sugar, and sauté apples with pumpkin pie spice and lemon juice. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes aromatic.
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Assemble the Hand Pies: Once cooled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Cut into 6-inch circles. Place a spoonful of apple filling on one half of each circle, fold over, and press edges to seal securely.
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Fry the Hand Pies: Heat canola oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 335°F. Carefully add the prepared hand pies, frying for 6-7 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to fry in batches.
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Finish with Cinnamon Sugar: Remove the hand pies from the oil and let them drain briefly on paper towels. Sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar immediately while still warm to create a sweet outer layer.
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies
Room Temperature: Store cooked Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, place the pies in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven for a crispy finish.
Freezer: Freeze un-fried hand pies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Fry them straight from the freezer when ready to enjoy!
Reheating: To reheat cooked hand pies, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed and crispy.
Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies with these delightful variations!
- Granny Smith Swap: Substitute SweeTango apples with Granny Smith for a more pronounced tart flavor that’s perfectly balanced with sweetness.
- Dried Fruit Addition: Mix in raisins or cranberries with the apple filling for bursts of chewy texture and added sweetness in every bite.
- Caramel Drizzle: After frying, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the hand pies for an elegant touch that adds rich sweetness and decadence.
- Cinnamon Roll Twist: Roll the dough with cinnamon sugar before cutting it into circles for an extra cinnamon kick that complements the apple filling beautifully.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger to the apple mixture for a surprising warmth that gives these hand pies an exciting twist.
- Nutty Crust: Incorporate finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for an added crunch that enhances both flavor and texture.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips with the apple filling for a delightful contrast of flavors that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Vegan Option: Use a flax egg and almond milk, along with dairy-free butter to create vegan-friendly hand pies without sacrificing any taste!
What to Serve with Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies?
Bring warmth and comfort to your table with delightful accompaniments that elevate your hand pie experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creamy sweetness to the warm, spiced filling, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Spiced Cider: Sip on this warming drink, infused with cinnamon and cloves, to perfectly complement the flavors of the hand pies. The warmth enhances the delightful spices within.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle this velvety sauce over your hand pies for an indulgent touch that elevates each bite into a dessert affair.
- Whipped Cream: Fluffy and light, this topping makes for an airy contrast to the crispy, flaky crust while sweetening the overall experience.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry brings a lovely burst of flavor, cutting through the sweetness for a balanced treat.
- Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey adds a touch of floral sweetness that beautifully complements the SweeTango apple filling.
- Chai Latte: A warm, spiced tea pairing that echoes the flavors of the hand pies, creating a cozy harmony perfect for fall evenings.
- Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette can lighten up the richness of the hand pies, offering a lovely contrast.
Each of these pairings promises to transform your meal into a comforting feast, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Make Ahead Options
These Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies are a fantastic choice for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the dough and apple filling up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a smoother cooking process. Simply make the dough as directed, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. For the filling, cook the SweeTango apples as instructed, then let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, roll out the dough, fill, seal, and fry! With these steps, you’ll have warm, crispy hand pies that taste just as delicious and fresh, saving you precious time on busy days.
Expert Tips for Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies
- Chill Your Dough: Allow the dough to chill properly; this helps prevent it from becoming tough and ensures a flaky, tender crust.
- Use SweeTango Apples: For the best flavor, stick to SweeTango apples; their sweet-tart profile makes them irresistible in your hand pies.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Keep the oil at 335°F while frying for crispy results; too cool oil will make for greasy hand pies, while too hot can burn them.
- Seal Carefully: Ensure edges are well-sealed after filling; this will prevent these lovely Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies from leaking during frying.
- Dust Right Away: Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar on the pies immediately after frying; it sticks better when the dough is hot and creates a delightful coating.
Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I know when my SweeTango apples are ripe?
Absolutely! Look for apples that are firm and free from dark spots or bruises. When squeezing gently, they should have a bit of give but not be overly soft. For the best flavor, choose apples that have a vibrant color and a sweet aroma.
What’s the best way to store leftover Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies?
Store your hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just remember, if you choose the fridge, reheat them in the oven to retain that crispy texture!
Can I freeze Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies?
Certainly! To freeze un-fried hand pies, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fry them straight from the freezer—no thawing necessary! Just be sure to adjust the frying time slightly.
What should I do if my hand pie filling spills out while frying?
Very! First, make sure the edges are really well sealed before frying. If you find some filling spills out, don’t worry too much—it happens! If you encounter a lot of leakage, check your dough for overmixing or the filling for excess moisture. If this does occur, you might want to consider thickening the apple mixture next time with a bit of cornstarch.
Are there any dietary considerations for making Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies?
Yes! If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, substitute the egg with a flax egg and use almond milk instead of dairy milk. For those with gluten sensitivities, you can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Always check the ingredients of your store-bought items, like shortening or sugar, for any hidden allergens.
How can I enhance the flavor of the apple filling?
Absolutely! For a delightful twist, consider adding a handful of raisins or cranberries to the filling. They add a lovely sweetness and texture that complements the SweeTango apples beautifully. Another option is to add a splash of vanilla extract to the filling as it cooks for an extra layer of flavor!
Crispy Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies That Wow Your Tastebuds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, and granulated sugar. Cut in shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk and egg until just combined, then refrigerate for several hours until firm.
- Peel, core, and dice the SweeTango apples. In a sauté pan, melt butter over medium heat, add sugar, and sauté apples with pumpkin pie spice and lemon juice until thickened and aromatic.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Cut into 6-inch circles. Place a spoonful of apple filling on one half of each circle, fold over, and press edges to seal securely.
- Heat canola oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 335°F. Add the hand pies, frying for 6-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the hand pies from the oil and let them drain briefly on paper towels. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar immediately while still warm.