Name: Easy Mini Apple Hand Pies Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 454 grams Honeycrisp apples (1 pound); 28 grams unsalted butter (2 Tablespoons); 72 grams brown sugar (1/3 cup, packed); Pinch of Kosher salt; 1 teaspoon apple pie spice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon cardamom; 12 grams cornstarch (1 1/2 Tablespoons); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 recipe homemade pie dough or 399 grams (14 ounces) store-bought pie dough; 1 egg; 1 Tablespoon water (for egg wash); 48 grams raw sugar (1/3 cup) for sprinkling

Print Recipe·4 from 11 reviews

If you’re craving a cozy, delicious treat that’s easy to make and wonderfully satisfying, this Easy Mini Apple Hand Pies Recipe is exactly what you need. These bite-sized gems combine tender, warmly spiced apple filling wrapped in a flaky golden crust, perfect for dessert, snacks, or even breakfast on the go. Whether you’re baking for family or sharing with friends, these hand pies bring that homemade charm and irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen with happiness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat white plate in the center with two folded light beige dough sheets. Below it, a white bowl with light brown rings holds diced pale yellow apple pieces. To the left, a small white bowl contains a raw egg yolk in clear white egg whites. Above it, a tiny white bowl holds dark brown vanilla extract. Next to this is a small white bowl with white flour, light brown cinnamon, and a darker brown spice. Above, there's a white plate filled with light brown brown sugar. To its left, a decorative white bowl with brown edges is filled with light golden coarse sugar chunks. At the top left corner, there is a white plate with a block of pale yellow butter. Two red apples with small green leaves are positioned between the bowls and plates, all set on a surface with a white marbled texture, scattered with a few green leaves and part of a red apple seen at the top right photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, wholesome ingredients come together in incredible ways to create these delightful hand pies. Each component plays an essential role, from the crisp Honeycrisp apples to the aromatic spices and buttery crust – crafting the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Honeycrisp apples: Sweet and tart with crispness that softens perfectly when cooked, making the filling irresistible.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the apples to tender perfection.
Brown sugar: Brings a deep, caramel sweetness that complements the apple’s natural flavors.
Kosher salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness throughout the filling.
Apple pie spice: A cozy blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and more, infusing the apples with classic warmth.
Cinnamon: Intensifies that beloved apple pie flavor with its sweet and spicy notes.
Cardamom: Adds an intriguing floral and citrus hint that elevates the spice blend uniquely.
Cornstarch: Thickens the filling to a perfect, jammy consistency so it doesn’t leak out of the crust.
Vanilla extract: Adds smooth warmth and depth to the filling’s flavor.
Pie dough: Either homemade or store-bought, this flaky crust is the vessel that makes these hand pies so irresistibly tender.
Egg: Used for an egg wash to give the crust a beautiful golden shine and help the sugar adhere on top.
Raw sugar: Sprinkled on top for a delightful sparkling crunch with every bite.

How to Make Easy Mini Apple Hand Pies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Pie Filling

First, peel, core, and dice your Honeycrisp apples into small cubes—around half an inch or smaller is ideal. Gently melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, then add your diced apples along with brown sugar, a pinch of salt, apple pie spice, cinnamon, and cardamom. Stir everything together to marry those flavors and sauté until the apples soften and the sugar dissolves, about five minutes.

Step 2: Thicken the Filling

While the apple mixture gently cooks, whisk cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the apple mixture, keeping the heat on, and cook until the filling transforms into a thick, jammy consistency that’s perfect for filling the pies. When ready, remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Set the filling aside to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Pie Dough Circles

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll out your pie dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Using a 4-inch round cookie cutter, cut as many circles as you can from the dough. Don’t worry if you need to re-roll scraps—aim for about 28 circles total to make 14 hand pies.

Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies

Place half the dough circles on your prepared sheets with at least two inches between each. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the cooled apple filling onto the center of each bottom crust circle. Cover each with a remaining dough circle. Pinch the edges shut with your fingers, then crimp with a fork for a charming, finished look. Cut a small “X” vent on each hand pie’s top crust to allow steam to escape while baking.

Step 5: Chill, Glaze, and Bake

Pop the hand pies into the fridge for 10 to 20 minutes to chill. Meanwhile, whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush this over the chilled pies and sprinkle with raw sugar for a sparkling crust. Bake them for 20 to 25 minutes until the crust is gorgeously golden and the filling bubbles invitingly. Let the pies cool on the pans briefly before transferring to a wire rack for at least 10 more minutes to set.

How to Serve Easy Mini Apple Hand Pies Recipe

The image shows several small round hand pies with a golden brown crust, topped with large sugar crystals giving a sparkling, rough texture. Each pie has four small slits in the center arranged in a cross shape, revealing a bit of dark filling inside. The pies are placed directly on a white marbled surface with some crumbs scattered around. In the background, there are bright red apples with a smooth, shiny skin and a few green leaves adding a fresh touch. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These hand pies shine on their own but can be dressed up with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of warm caramel sauce, or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans adds a lovely crunch that contrasts with the soft filling.

Side Dishes

Pair your Warm mini apple hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of spiced chai tea for a comforting combo. They also make a perfect companion to a sharp cheddar cheese plate for a sweet and savory bite that surprises and delights.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these hand pies in a rustic wicker basket lined with a pretty cloth for a charming picnic vibe. Alternatively, gift-wrap a stack tied with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade present. For parties, create a hand pie platter with assorted dipping sauces like cinnamon-spiced honey or cream cheese frosting to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover hand pies keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. The crust stays tender and the filling flavorful, so you won’t feel like you’re missing out.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, freeze the unbaked hand pies on a sheet pan until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be baked directly from frozen—just add a few minutes to the baking time for a fresh-from-the-oven experience anytime you crave them.

Reheating

Reheat leftover hand pies in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes to crisp up the crust and warm the filling. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy. A warm hand pie tastes just like it’s straight from the oven!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple in this recipe?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp apples provide a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, Granny Smith or Fuji apples also work wonderfully. Just adjust the sugar to your taste based on the apple’s natural sweetness.

Is it necessary to use homemade pie dough?

Not at all! Store-bought pie dough works perfectly well and saves time, making this Easy Mini Apple Hand Pies Recipe even more accessible for busy days or novice bakers.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking during baking?

Make sure to seal the edges of the pies very well, pressing firmly with your fingers and crimping with a fork. Using a thickened filling with cornstarch and chilling the pies before baking also helps prevent leaks.

Can I make mini apple hand pies vegan?

Yes! Use a plant-based butter substitute and an egg wash alternative like almond milk or aquafaba mixed with maple syrup for brushing the crust. The filling is naturally vegan-friendly with the right butter swap.

How long do these hand pies stay fresh?

Freshly baked mini apple hand pies are best enjoyed within two days at room temperature or up to a week refrigerated. For longer storage, freeze them and enjoy within two months for optimal flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Mini Apple Hand Pies Recipe are truly a joy to make and share. Their warm, tender filling and flaky crust offer a comforting bite of home in every mouthful. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or a quiet moment to yourself, these pies will quickly become a staple you’ll return to time and again. Don’t wait—grab your apples and let the delicious magic begin!