Fried apple pies are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the comforting flavors of homemade apple pie filling with the crispy goodness of a flaky pie crust. Deep frying these golden brown pastries creates an irresistible apple dessert that is both a classic American dessert and a sweet southern delight. This easy apple pie recipe is ideal for family-friendly gatherings or as portable desserts for picnics.
Ingredients
Scale:
4 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
6-8 tablespoons ice water
Oil for deep frying (vegetable or canola oil works best)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Prepare the apple filling: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until apples are tender, about 8-10 minutes. Mix in the lemon juice. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce thickens, approximately 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
Make the pie crust: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Add chilled butter cubes and cut into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
Chill the dough: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a bowl to cut out circles of dough, approximately 4-5 inches in diameter.
Fill and seal the pies: Place a spoonful of the cooled apple filling in the center of each dough circle. Moisten the edges of the dough with water, fold over, and press to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork for a tight seal.
Heat the oil: In a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Ensure there is enough oil to submerge the pies completely.
Fry the pies: Carefully add a few pies to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Coat with cinnamon sugar: While still warm, dust the fried pies with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon for a deliciously sweet coating.
