Name: Christmas Apple Hand Pies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 3 cups Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples, peeled and sliced; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 egg + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)

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Christmas is a magical time of year, and what better way to celebrate than with delicious Christmas Apple Hand Pies? These delightful little treats are like a warm hug on a chilly winter day, bursting with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling encased in a flaky, golden crust. Imagine the aroma wafting through your home as they bake; it’s enough to make even Scrooge feel merry!

The best part? These Christmas Apple Hand Pies are not just a tasty dessert; they’re also packed with nostalgia. I remember my grandmother whipping up batches of these every holiday season, her laughter ringing through the kitchen as flour dust swirled around her like a festive snowstorm. They’re perfect for cozy family gatherings, festive parties, or even as a sneaky midnight snack when you think no one will notice. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked!

Why You'll Love This Christmas Apple Hand Pies

This incredible Christmas Apple Hand Pies transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Christmas Apple Hand Pies:

All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of your crust! Use high-quality flour for the best texture and flakiness.
Unsalted Butter: Cold butter is key here; it helps create those buttery layers in your hand pies.
Granulated Sugar: Just the right amount to sweeten up the filling and add to the crust for a touch of sweetness.
Brown Sugar: This adds depth and richness to your apple filling—trust me, it’s worth it!
Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Choose crisp apples that hold their shape when baked.
Cinnamon: The quintessential spice that will fill your home with an irresistible aroma during baking.
Lemon Juice: A splash of acidity brightens the flavors of the apples and prevents browning.
Egg Wash (Egg + Water): This gives your hand pies that beautiful golden color when they come out of the oven.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Christmas Apple Hand Pies:

Step 1: Make the Crust

In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour and granulated sugar. Cut cold unsalted butter into small cubes and mix until crumbly. Gradually add ice-cold water until dough forms. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Peel, core, and slice your apples into thin pieces. In another bowl, toss them with brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until evenly coated.

Step 3: Roll Out Dough

Once chilled, divide dough into two halves. On a floured surface, roll out each half to about an eighth-inch thickness. Cut into circles using a biscuit cutter or glass.

Step 4: Assemble Hand Pies

Place a spoonful of apple filling on one half of each dough circle. Fold over and crimp edges with a fork to seal tightly—no spillage allowed!

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush each hand pie with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar for added sparkle before placing them on a lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake & Enjoy!

Bake for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before devouring! Serve warm or at room temperature for maximum enjoyment.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with caramel sauce for the perfect finishing touch!

There you have it—your very own batch of Christmas Apple Hand Pies! Whether you’re sharing them at holiday gatherings or keeping them all to yourself (no judgment here), these little pockets of joy are sure to spread festive cheer!

You Must Know About Christmas Apple Hand Pies

This showstopping Christmas Apple Hand Pies delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by preparing the apple filling while your pie dough is chilling. Roll out the dough, fill it with the spiced apples, and fold over the edges. Bake until golden brown while your kitchen fills with the delicious aroma of cinnamon and sugar.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Christmas Apple Hand Pies! Swap out some apples for pears or add a touch of nutmeg for a unique twist. You can also drizzle caramel sauce inside for a decadent surprise.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Christmas Apple Hand Pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and crispy again.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Christmas Apple Hand Pies

This professional-quality Christmas Apple Hand Pies relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

The first time I made these Christmas Apple Hand Pies, my family devoured them within minutes! Their smiles were worth every minute spent in the kitchen, making it a memorable holiday tradition we still cherish today.

FAQs

What are Christmas Apple Hand Pies?

Christmas Apple Hand Pies are delightful desserts that combine flaky pastry with a spiced apple filling. They are perfect for the holiday season, capturing the essence of Christmas flavors. These hand pies are easy to make and can be enjoyed warm or cold. A combination of apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar creates a delicious filling, while a buttery crust adds to their charm. These treats can be served at holiday gatherings or as a cozy snack on chilly winter evenings.

How do I make the perfect crust for Christmas Apple Hand Pies?

To create the perfect crust for your Christmas Apple Hand Pies, start with chilled ingredients. Use cold butter and ice water to ensure a flaky texture. Mix flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl before cutting the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough holds together. Roll it out on a floured surface and cut into circles for filling. Refrigerating the dough before baking enhances its flakiness.

Can I use other fruits in my hand pies?

Yes! While apples are traditional for Christmas Apple Hand Pies, you can experiment with other fruits like pears, cherries, or blueberries. Adjust the spice levels to complement your chosen fruit; for example, add ginger or lemon zest for citrus fruits. Each variation will bring a unique flavor profile while maintaining that comforting hand pie experience during the festive season.

How should I store leftover Christmas Apple Hand Pies?

To store leftover Christmas Apple Hand Pies, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them; wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw before reheating in an oven to restore their crispiness.

Conclusion

Christmas Apple Hand Pies are a delightful addition to your holiday festivities. With their flaky crust and spiced apple filling, they capture the joy of the season perfectly. Making these hand pies is simple and allows for variations with different fruits too. Enjoy serving them warm at gatherings or as sweet treats throughout winter. Embrace the flavors of Christmas with these unforgettable pastries that bring comfort and cheer to all who indulge in them!