Introduction to Caramel Apple Hand Pies

There’s something magical about the combination of warm apples and gooey caramel, isn’t there? That’s why I absolutely adore making Caramel Apple Hand Pies. These delightful little treats are not just a dessert; they’re a hug in pastry form! Perfect for a quick snack after a long day or a sweet surprise for your loved ones, these hand pies are sure to impress. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Hand Pies

These Caramel Apple Hand Pies are a dream come true for anyone who loves quick and delicious desserts. They come together in no time, making them perfect for those busy days when you crave something sweet. The flaky crust, combined with the warm, spiced apple-caramel filling, creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, they’re portable, so you can enjoy them anywhere!

Ingredients for Caramel Apple Hand Pies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these scrumptious Caramel Apple Hand Pies. Here’s what you’ll need:

Refrigerated pie crust: You can use store-bought for convenience or make your own for a personal touch.
Medium apples: I love using Granny Smith for their tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. Feel free to mix varieties for a unique flavor!
Unsalted butter: This adds richness to the filling. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with margarine.
Brown sugar: It brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with the apples.
Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that enhances the apple flavor. You can also add a pinch of allspice for extra warmth.
Nutmeg: Just a dash adds a lovely depth to the filling. It’s like a cozy blanket for your taste buds!
Lemon juice: This brightens the flavors and prevents the apples from browning. A splash of apple cider vinegar works too!
Cornstarch: This thickens the filling, ensuring it doesn’t ooze out when you bite into the hand pies.
Caramel sauce: The star of the show! Use your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own for a homemade touch.
Egg: Beaten for an egg wash, it gives the hand pies a beautiful golden finish. You can skip this for a vegan option.
Coarse sugar: Optional, but it adds a delightful crunch on top. You can use regular sugar if that’s what you have on hand.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!

How to Make Caramel Apple Hand Pies

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these delightful Caramel Apple Hand Pies. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying warm, gooey goodness in no time!

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by melting the unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. The aroma of butter melting is like music to my ears!

Once it’s melted, toss in the diced apples, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5–6 minutes. You want the apples to soften but still hold their shape.

After cooking, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cornstarch slurry. This will thicken the filling, making it less runny. Let the mixture cool before using it. Trust me, a hot filling can make the crust soggy!

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

While your filling cools, it’s time to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your Caramel Apple Hand Pies bake evenly and get that lovely golden color. No one likes a soggy bottom, right?

Step 3: Roll Out the Pie Crust

Now, let’s roll out those pie crusts! If you’re using refrigerated crusts, simply unroll them on a lightly floured surface. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade crusts are always a hit!

Using a round cutter or a glass, cut the dough into circles about 4–5 inches wide. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; rustic is charming! You’ll need about 8–10 circles, depending on how thick you roll the dough.

Step 4: Fill the Hand Pies

Place 1–2 tablespoons of the cooled apple-caramel filling in the center of each circle. Be careful not to overfill; you want to seal them properly!

Fold the crust over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together gently, then use a fork to crimp the edges. This not only seals the pies but also adds a cute design!

Step 5: Bake the Hand Pies

Place your filled hand pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for that beautiful golden finish. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some coarse sugar on top for extra crunch!

Bake them in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly. Once they’re done, let them cool slightly before drizzling with extra caramel sauce. Enjoy them warm for the best experience!

Tips for Success

Make sure your apple filling is completely cooled before filling the crust to prevent sogginess.
Don’t skip the egg wash; it gives your Caramel Apple Hand Pies that beautiful golden color.
Experiment with different apple varieties for unique flavors and textures.
For a fun twist, add chopped nuts or dried cranberries to the filling.
Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary, and you want them perfectly golden!

Equipment Needed

Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but any frying pan will do.
Rolling pin: If you don’t have one, a wine bottle can serve as a great alternative!
Round cutter: Use a glass or a bowl to cut the dough into circles.
Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper is perfect.
Fork: Essential for sealing the edges and adding a decorative touch.

Variations of Caramel Apple Hand Pies

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of ginger or cardamom into the filling for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based egg wash or skip it altogether for a vegan-friendly treat.
Berry Twist: Mix in some fresh or frozen berries, like blueberries or raspberries, with the apples for a fruity explosion.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the baked hand pies for a decadent touch that pairs beautifully with caramel.

Serving Suggestions for Caramel Apple Hand Pies

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Pair with a hot cup of spiced cider or a rich coffee to enhance the flavors.
Dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top for an indulgent touch.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

FAQs about Caramel Apple Hand Pies

Can I make Caramel Apple Hand Pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the hand pies a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes for a quick dessert option when you have guests!

What type of apples are best for these hand pies?

I recommend using Granny Smith for their tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. Mixing different apple varieties can create a delightful flavor profile in your Caramel Apple Hand Pies.

Can I freeze the hand pies?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled hand pies before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I store leftover hand pies?

Store any leftover Caramel Apple Hand Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Can I use a different type of sauce instead of caramel?

Of course! While caramel is the star of the show, you can experiment with chocolate sauce or even a fruit compote for a different twist on these delicious hand pies.

Final Thoughts

Making Caramel Apple Hand Pies is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories. The joy of biting into a warm, flaky crust filled with spiced apples and gooey caramel is simply unmatched. Whether you’re sharing them with family or savoring one alone with a cup of tea, these hand pies bring comfort and happiness. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to celebrate the flavors of fall, no matter the season. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and enjoy the delightful process of making these little pockets of joy!

Caramel Apple Hand Pies: Discover a Delicious Recipe!

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Author: Kitchen-pop
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 8–10 hand pies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicious caramel apple hand pies filled with a sweet apple-caramel mixture, perfect for a dessert or snack.

Ingredients

Scale

2 sheets refrigerated pie crust (or homemade)
2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
2 tbsp unsalted butter
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
1 tsp lemon juice
2 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp water (slurry)
¼ cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
1 tbsp coarse sugar (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken. Remove from heat and mix in caramel sauce. Let cool.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out pie crusts and cut into circles (about 4–5 inches wide).
Place 1–2 tbsp apple-caramel filling in the center of each circle.
Fold crust over filling into a half-moon shape. Press edges with a fork to seal.
Place on parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush tops with egg wash. Sprinkle with coarse sugar.
Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
Drizzle with extra caramel sauce before serving. Best enjoyed warm.

Notes

For a homemade pie crust, use your favorite recipe or store-bought options.
Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties for varied flavors.
These hand pies can be frozen before baking for later use.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 hand pie
Calories: 250
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg