As autumn leaves begin to blanket the ground, I crave that cozy feeling of something warm and sweet in my hands. Enter my Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies, a delightful treat that captures all the nostalgia of fall in every flaky, golden bite. The first time I sunk my teeth into one of these hand pies, the aroma of caramelized apples and cinnamon danced around me, transporting me back to carefree days spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. These handheld treasures are perfect for sharing, but let’s be honest—once you take that first bite of crunchy pastry enveloping a luscious apple filling, you might just want to keep them all to yourself! Whether it’s an afternoon snack or a fun dessert for a gathering, these bites of heaven bring joy to any occasion. Join me as we delve into this easy recipe that’s bound to impress and satisfy both your sweet tooth and your love for homemade goodness!
Why Love Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies?
Deliciously Irresistible: Each bite is a warm hug, thanks to the caramelized Sweetango apples blending beautifully with cinnamon and sugar.
Quick to Make: This recipe is straightforward, ensuring you can whip up a batch in no time.
Perfectly Flaky Crust: The tender dough creates a delightful crunch, making each hand pie a textural delight.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy these for breakfast, snack, or dessert—your taste buds will thank you!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, these hand pies will impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Indulge in the comforting flavors of fall with these homemade gems!
Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pie Ingredients
• For the perfect balance of flavors and textures, gather these key ingredients to create fried SweeTango apple hand pies that everyone will adore!
For the Dough
- Shortening – Provides tenderness and flakiness; substitute with butter for a richer flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the dough structure; no substitutes are recommended for this recipe.
- Sugar – Sweetens the dough; can be replaced with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor; use sea salt for a more robust taste.
- Milk & Egg – Adds moisture and richness to the dough; opt for dairy-free milk if needed.
For the Filling
- Sweetango Apples (10) – The star ingredient, delivering natural sweetness and a touch of tang; replace with tart apples like Granny Smith if necessary.
- Butter – Adds richness to the filling; coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warmth and depth into the filling; swap it with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice if desired.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the apple flavor and prevents browning; can be omitted if not available.
For Frying
- Canola Oil – Ideal for frying with a neutral flavor; vegetable oil is a suitable substitute.
Embrace the cozy essence of fall with these fried SweeTango apple hand pies, a delightful treat you won’t be able to resist!
How to Make Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies
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Prepare Dough: In a bowl, mix all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar. Use a pastry cutter to cut in shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Mix in milk and egg gently until just combined, then refrigerate for several hours or overnight to firm up.
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Prepare Filling: Begin by peeling and coring the Sweetango apples, then dice them into small pieces. In a sauté pan over medium heat, melt butter and sugar, then add the diced apples along with pumpkin pie spice and lemon juice. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the apples are caramelized and tender. Let the filling cool completely.
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Assemble Hand Pies: Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thick. Cut out 6-inch circles and place about 2 tablespoons of the cooled apple mixture on one half of each circle. Fold the other half over to create a half-moon shape, sealing edges with a fork.
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Fry Pies: Heat canola oil in a deep pan to 335°F. Carefully drop a few hand pies into the hot oil at a time; fry for about 6-7 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
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Finish: While still hot, sprinkle the fried hand pies with cinnamon sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies?
There’s nothing quite like the warm aroma of golden hand pies to create a cozy atmosphere for any gathering or a delightful afternoon treat.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream compliments the warm apple filling beautifully, creating a heavenly dessert experience. The contrasting temperatures of hot and cold will excite your taste buds!
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a touch of elegance, making each bite even more indulgent. Whether dolloped on top or served alongside, it elevates the dessert to new heights.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the hand pies brings a rich, buttery flavor that marries perfectly with caramelized apples. It adds a delightful gooeyness that any sweet tooth will love.
- Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar immediately enhances the flavor and adds a touch of charming sweetness that echoes the classic fall spices.
- Hot Apple Cider: Perfect for autumn, a mug of hot apple cider creates a warming drink that pairs harmoniously with the flavors of the hand pies. It’s like a hug in a cup!
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant side of fresh fruit offers a refreshing balance, cutting through the richness of fried pastries and adding a burst of freshness. Consider apple slices, berries, or citrus for brightness.
- Chai Latte: A spiced chai latte complements the warm spices in the hand pies while adding a cozy beverage option that enhances a comforting afternoon. Enjoy sipping as you indulge in your treats!
Expert Tips for Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies
- Dough Care: Avoid overworking the dough; gentle mixing and handling ensure your crust stays light and flaky.
- Chill Time: Refrigerating the dough is essential; it allows the fats to solidify, resulting in a perfectly crispy Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pie.
- Apple Prep: Cool the apple filling completely before assembling; this prevents a soggy bottom and maintains that delightful crunch.
- Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on your oil’s temperature; frying at 335°F guarantees even cooking and a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Serving Tip: For an extra indulgence, serve warm hand pies with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to elevate your dessert experience.
Storage Tips for Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies
Room Temperature: Store the pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their crispiness.
Freezer: To keep your Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies fresh for longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet for 2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a toaster oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their delightful crunch. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Cooling Tip: Ensure the hand pies cool completely before storing, as moisture can lead to a loss of crispiness.
Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies—these delightful tweaks will surely bring a smile to your face!
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Berry Blast: Substitute half of the apples with fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for a sweet and tart twist. Mixing flavors brings out a delightful medley.
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples perfectly!
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Vegan Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter and substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk for a plant-based treat everyone will enjoy.
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Spicy Kick: A pinch of cayenne pepper or fresh ginger adds a surprising heat that balances out the sweetness of the filling. It’s a flavor adventure!
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Caramel Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted caramel over the top of your hand pies for an indulgent touch that elevates the treat to a whole new level.
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Different Fruits: Try using seasonal fruits like peaches or pears to keep things interesting; the flavor combination will be a delightful surprise while capturing that autumn spirit.
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Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate mini chocolate chips to the apple filling for a decadent mixture that perfectly combines chocolate and fruit.
Each variation brings its own special joy, reminding us of the versatility and homemade charm behind these Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies!
Make Ahead Options
These Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies are ideal for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing flour, salt, sugar, and shortening, then refrigerating it until you’re ready to use. The apple filling can also be cooked and cooled up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and flavorful. When you’re ready to serve, simply roll out the dough, assemble the hand pies, and fry them to golden perfection. By prepping these steps in advance, you save time and ensure mouthwatering results without compromising on quality—making your kitchen time more enjoyable!
Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select Sweetango apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting Sweetango apples, look for ones that are firm and free from any dark spots or bruising. A fresh Sweetango apple should have bright, vibrant skin and feel heavy for its size, indicating juiciness and sweetness.
How long can I store Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies?
You can store these delicious hand pies in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature. This keeps them crispy! For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are completely cooled before freezing to prevent sogginess.
Can I freeze Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze, place the cooled hand pies on a baking sheet in a single layer and stick them in the freezer for about 2 hours. Once they are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. This way, they won’t stick together, and you can enjoy them later when the craving strikes!
How do I prevent the filling from making the crust soggy?
A common issue, but don’t worry! To avoid a soggy crust, ensure you cool the apple filling completely before using it. Also, make sure you seal the edges of the hand pies well after filling them. Getting rid of excess moisture in the filling by cooking it down until caramelized will help create that perfect flaky texture you desire.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you have allergies, watch for common ingredients like gluten in the flour or dairy in the butter and milk. You can easily make these hand pies dairy-free by substituting with coconut oil and plant-based milk. If you’re considering serving these to kids or pets, ensure the filling is fully cooled and avoid any small bits that might pose a choking hazard.
Fried SweeTango Apple Hand Pies: Sweet, Crispy Perfection
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, mix all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in shortening until it resembles coarse crumbs. Mix in milk and egg gently until just combined, then refrigerate for several hours or overnight to firm up.
- Peel and core the Sweetango apples, then dice them. Melt butter and sugar in a sauté pan over medium heat, then add apples, pumpkin pie spice, and lemon juice. Cook for 15-20 minutes until caramelized and tender. Let filling cool completely.
- Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thick. Cut out 6-inch circles and place about 2 tablespoons of cooled apple mixture on one half of each circle. Fold the other half over and seal edges with a fork.
- Heat canola oil in a deep pan to 335°F. Fry hand pies in hot oil for about 6-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- While still hot, sprinkle the fried hand pies with cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness.