Caramel Apple Hand Pies

There’s something irresistibly charming about Caramel Apple Hand Pies. These little pockets of warm, gooey apple filling wrapped in flaky, buttery crusts are the perfect handheld treat for any occasion—from cozy fall afternoons to festive holiday gatherings. Using pre-made pie crusts, this recipe comes together quickly without sacrificing any of that classic homemade goodness. Imagine biting into a crisp, golden crust that gives way to tender, cinnamon-spiced apples swirled with luscious caramel sauce. Ready in under an hour, these pies are a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth and showcase the best flavors of apple season.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

There are plenty of apple desserts out there, but what makes Caramel Apple Hand Pies stand out is their perfect balance of convenience and flavor. Using store-bought pie crusts means you skip the fuss of making dough from scratch, yet the end result is just as delicious. The cinnamon and caramel elevate the diced apple filling, creating a warm, comforting bite every time. Plus, these hand pies are perfectly portioned for sharing, making them ideal for parties, lunchboxes, or an easy dessert fix any day of the week. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a go-to.

Gather These Ingredients

• 1 package pre-made pie crusts (usually contains 2 crusts)
• 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced – choose a crisp variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture
• 1/2 cup brown sugar – adds depth and warmth to the filling
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – balances the acidity of the apples
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon – classic spice that pairs perfectly with apples
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – brightens the flavor and prevents apples from browning
• 1 tablespoon butter – adds richness to the filling
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce – for that gooey, indulgent touch inside the pies
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) – ensures a golden, shiny crust
• Flour for dusting – to roll out the crust without sticking

Appliances & Accessories

• Oven – for baking the pies to golden perfection
• Mixing bowl – to combine your apple filling ingredients
• Skillet or saucepan – to gently cook and soften the apples
• Rolling pin – to roll out pie crusts as needed
• Baking sheet – to place your hand pies on for baking
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking
• Pastry brush – to apply the egg wash for that gorgeous crust shine
• Knife or pizza cutter – to cut the dough into hand pie shapes
• Fork – to crimp the edges and seal the pies

From Start to Finish: Caramel Apple Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Stir frequently and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the apples are tender but still hold their shape. Remove from heat and let cool slightly, then gently fold in the caramel sauce. This luscious filling will be the heart of your Caramel Apple Hand Pies.

Step 2: Roll Out the Pie Crust

Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Unroll one pie crust and gently roll it out to smooth any creases and slightly enlarge it. Use a round cutter or a bowl (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut circles out of the dough. Gather scraps and re-roll to cut out more circles. Repeat with the second crust.

Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies

Place a spoonful of the cooled apple-caramel filling in the center of each dough circle, being careful not to overfill. Brush the edges of the dough circle with beaten egg to help seal. Place another dough circle on top if you want a double crust, or fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges tightly, sealing in the filling.

Step 4: Apply Egg Wash and Vent

Brush the tops of each hand pie with the beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish. Use a knife to cut a few small slits on the top of each pie to allow steam to escape while baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set.

Holiday-Friendly Variations

• Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or allspice to the apple filling for a spiced holiday flavor.
• Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for added crunch.
• Drizzle with extra caramel sauce after baking for an ultra-decadent finish.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Try swapping caramel for a homemade caramel sauce infused with sea salt for a salted caramel twist.

Don’t Do This

• Don’t overfill the pies – too much filling can cause them to burst open while baking.
• Don’t skip the egg wash – it’s what gives your hand pies that beautiful golden color.
• Avoid using very juicy apples without cooking them first, as excess liquid can make the crust soggy.
• Don’t rush the cooling process; letting the pies sit for a few minutes helps the filling set and prevents burns.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

You can store your Caramel Apple Hand Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked pies on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

To reheat, warm the pies in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.

Caramel Apple Hand Pies FAQs

Can I use other types of apples besides Granny Smith?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tart contrast, you can use any firm apple variety like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala. Just make sure the apples hold their shape well during cooking to avoid a mushy filling.

Is it necessary to cook the apple filling before assembling the pies?

Yes, cooking the filling softens the apples slightly and helps meld the flavors of sugar and cinnamon. It also reduces excess moisture, which prevents the crust from becoming soggy during baking.

Can I make these pies ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the pies in advance, freeze them, and bake when ready. This makes them ideal for holiday entertaining or busy weeknights. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.

What can I use instead of pre-made pie crusts?

If you prefer homemade dough, you can use your favorite pie crust recipe. Alternatively, puff pastry sheets work well and add a flaky, buttery texture, though they will create a slightly different hand pie experience.

Desserts to Finish

• Caramel Apple Stuffed Cupcakes – A fun twist combining cupcakes and apple pie flavors.
• Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples – An elegant dessert that’s creamy and comforting.
• Cinnamon Sugar Stuffed Baked Apples – Simple, sweet, and perfect for chilly evenings.

Before You Go

Before you dive into baking these Caramel Apple Hand Pies, make sure your ingredients are ready and your workspace is prepped. These pies come together quickly, so having everything at hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable. Remember, the best part is sharing these warm, comforting treats with your loved ones—so don’t forget to make an extra batch!

Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned kitchen pro, these hand pies are a delightful way to celebrate the season’s best apples wrapped in caramel-spiced goodness. Enjoy the crispy crust and gooey filling in every bite!

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