Maple Glazed Apple Hand Pies: Irresistible Fall Treats

There’s something magical about the aroma of apples and cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. It instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where she’d whip up delicious treats with such ease and grace. Among my favorites were her Maple Glazed Apple Hand Pies, a delightful combination of flaky pastry and warm, spiced apples. These hand pies remind me of those cherished moments spent baking with her, where every bite was a taste of love and tradition.

As I recreate these hand pies in my own kitchen, I’m reminded of the joy that comes from transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The magic lies in the details—the careful preparation of the dough, the sweet and spicy apple filling, and the finishing touch of a maple glaze. Each step is a nod to the time-honored art of home cooking, where patience and passion come together to create something truly special.

At GrandMmaDelights, my mission is to inspire others to embrace the beauty of cooking from scratch. These Maple Glazed Apple Hand Pies are a testament to that philosophy. They are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a celebration of family traditions and the simple pleasures of life. Join me on this culinary journey as we explore the heartwarming flavors and comforting aromas of these delightful hand pies.

Maple Glazed Apple Hand Pies

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• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 12 hand pies 1x

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Description

Learn how to make delicious Maple Glazed Apple Hand Pies with this easy recipe. Perfect for a sweet treat or dessert, satisfy your cravings today!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) all-purpose flour (180 grams)
• 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) salt (2.5 grams)
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) granulated sugar (12.5 grams)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed (113 grams)
• 3 to 4 tablespoons (53 ml) ice water (45 to 60 milliliters)
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice (15 milliliters)
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) brown sugar (50 grams)
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) ground cinnamon (2.5 grams)
• 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) ground nutmeg (0.5 grams)
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) cornstarch (8 grams)
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) unsalted butter (14 grams)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) pure maple syrup (120 milliliters)
• 1 egg, beaten for egg wash
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) milk (15 milliliters)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and granulated sugar.
3. Add the chilled, cubed butter to the flour mixture.
4. Use a pastry cutter or fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
6. Form the dough into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
7. In a medium bowl, toss diced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning.
8. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch to the apples and mix well.
9. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat.
10. Add the apple mixture to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until apples are tender.
11. Remove from heat and let the apple filling cool.
12. In a small saucepan, heat maple syrup over medium heat.
13. Simmer the syrup for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
14. Remove from heat and let the maple glaze cool.
15. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
16. Cut the dough into circles or squares using a cookie cutter or knife.
17. Place a spoonful of apple filling in the center of each dough piece.
18. Brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg wash.
19. Fold the dough over the filling and press edges to seal.
20. Use a fork to crimp the edges of each hand pie.
21. Place hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
22. Brush the tops with egg wash and make small slits for steam to escape.
23. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
24. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
25. Drizzle the cooled maple glaze over the warm hand pies.
26. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• Make sure to use chilled, cubed butter in the dough for a flaky texture.
• Toss the diced apples with lemon juice for a tangy flavor and to prevent browning.
• Cook the apple filling to ensure the flavors blend perfectly.

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 3g

Keywords: 1. Apple hand pies, 2. Maple glaze, 3. Baked dessert, 4. Flaky crust, 5. Fall treat

Crafting Maple Glazed Apple Hand Pies

Fundamentals

The foundation of any great pie is its crust, and for these Maple Glazed Apple Hand Pies, we start with a simple, buttery dough. Combining all-purpose flour, salt, and granulated sugar creates a balanced base, while the chilled, cubed butter adds richness and flakiness. The key is to blend the butter into the dry ingredients until the texture resembles coarse crumbs, ensuring a tender bite.

Next, we gradually introduce ice water to bring the dough together. This step requires a gentle touch; adding the water one tablespoon at a time allows for the perfect consistency. Once the dough forms, it’s important to let it rest in the refrigerator. This not only makes it easier to handle but also enhances its texture, resulting in a perfectly flaky crust.

Preparation/setup

While the dough rests, we turn our attention to the filling. Diced apples tossed with lemon juice form the heart of our hand pies. The citrus adds a refreshing tang while preventing the apples from browning. To elevate the flavor, we incorporate brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, creating a warm and inviting aroma.

Cooking the apple mixture in a skillet allows the spices to meld beautifully with the fruit. A touch of cornstarch thickens the filling, ensuring it holds together inside the pastry. Once cooked, the filling needs time to cool before it meets the dough, preventing any sogginess in the final product.

Perfecting Your Hand Pies

Technique

Rolling out the dough requires a gentle hand and a floured surface. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch, which ensures a delicate yet sturdy crust. Using a cookie cutter or knife, cut the dough into uniform shapes, whether circles or squares, as this ensures even cooking. Each piece becomes a canvas for the apple filling, placed strategically in the center.

Sealing the hand pies is crucial to prevent the filling from spilling out. Brushing the edges with a beaten egg wash acts as an adhesive, while folding the dough over the filling creates a neat pocket. Pressing the edges with a fork not only secures the pie but also adds a charming decorative touch.

Tips and Tricks

For a golden, crispy exterior, brush the tops of the hand pies with more egg wash. This step enhances the visual appeal and adds a lovely sheen. Don’t forget to make small slits on the surface to allow steam to escape, preventing the pies from bursting during baking.

To achieve perfectly baked hand pies, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup. Keep a close eye on them as they bake, aiming for a golden-brown color that signals they’re ready to enjoy. While they cool slightly, prepare the maple glaze, a luxurious finishing touch that complements the spiced apple filling beautifully.

Mastering the Maple Glaze

Perfecting Results

The maple glaze elevates these hand pies from delightful to extraordinary. In a small saucepan, heat pure maple syrup over medium heat until it thickens slightly. Patience is key here, as a gentle simmer allows the flavors to deepen. Once thickened, let the glaze cool before drizzling it over the warm hand pies.

The combination of flaky pastry, spiced apple filling, and luxurious maple glaze creates a symphony of flavors and textures. Each bite is a harmonious balance of sweet and savory, with the glaze adding a rich sweetness that ties everything together. These hand pies are a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed by thoughtful preparation.

Troubleshooting and Variations

If your dough feels too crumbly, add a bit more ice water, a teaspoon at a time, until it comes together. For those who prefer a slightly different flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the apple filling. These spices can add an unexpected twist that complements the maple glaze beautifully.

Experiment with different shapes for your hand pies, such as triangles or half-moons, to add visual interest. If you find that your glaze is too thick, simply warm it slightly and add a splash of water to reach the desired consistency. These adjustments ensure that each hand pie is as delicious as it is visually appealing.

Serving Maple Glazed Apple Hand Pies

Serving and Presentation

Presentation is key when serving these delightful hand pies. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board or elegant platter, allowing the maple glaze to glisten in the light. For an extra touch of charm, sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar over the top, mimicking a light dusting of snow.

These hand pies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or an elegant dinner party. Serve them warm for the best experience, allowing the aromas to fill the room and entice your guests. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Pairings and Storage

When it comes to pairing, consider serving these hand pies alongside a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of apple cider. The flavors complement each other beautifully, enhancing the overall experience. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate them for longer shelf life.

For more delightful apple-inspired recipes, don’t miss our Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples. If you’re exploring more maple-flavored delights, check out these Maple Glazed Venison Sausages with Rainbow Veggies and Crispy Sage or these Sweet Maple Glazed Venison Jerky Bites.

For additional inspiration, explore the delightful flavors of Maple Glazed Sweet Potatoes with Pecans and Goat Cheese or the exquisite Sous Vide Pomegranate Glazed Chicken Legs.

Conclusion

Maple Glazed Apple Hand Pies offer a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making them a standout treat for any occasion. With a buttery, flaky crust, spiced apple filling, and rich maple glaze, they embody the essence of comfort and tradition. These hand pies are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of the art of home cooking.

The versatility and ease of preparation make these hand pies a favorite for both novice and seasoned bakers. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, they promise to bring joy and satisfaction with every bite. As you savor these delicious treats, you’ll appreciate the simple yet profound pleasure of creating something special from scratch.

FAQs – Maple Glazed Apple Hand Pies