Golden Air Fryer Apple Pies

These golden air fryer apple pies are perfect for a quick and indulgent dessert that delivers a crisp, flaky crust and a warm, spiced apple filling. They capture the essence of autumn with minimal effort and less mess thanks to the air fryer, making them a go-to treat for busy days or spontaneous sweet cravings.

I first made these pies on a chilly fall afternoon and was amazed at how golden and flaky they came out. Now they are a favorite that my kids ask for again and again, especially when topped with a little extra glaze.

Ingredients

• Apples: Choose crisp tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for firm texture and balanced flavor
• Brown sugar: Adds caramel-like sweetness and keeps the apples tender during cooking
• Lemon juice: Brightens the filling and prevents the apples from turning brown
• Ground cinnamon: Provides warm, classic pie spice; fresh ground tastes best
• Ground nutmeg: Adds a gentle spicy note that complements the cinnamon; whole nutmeg grated fresh is ideal
• Cornstarch: Thickens the filling to prevent runniness and keeps pies neat after baking
• Refrigerated pie crusts: Choose a brand known for baking golden and flaky; fully thaw for easy handling
• Egg: For the egg wash that delivers a shiny, golden finish
• Milk: Mixed with egg for a smooth egg wash and tender crust
• Granulated sugar: Sprinkled on top for sparkle and crunch
• Powdered sugar or glaze: Optional for drizzling once pies are baked and cooled
• Fresh-picked apples: Will elevate this recipe even further if you have the chance to use them

Instructions

Prepare the Spiced Apple Filling:

Combine diced apples brown sugar lemon juice cinnamon nutmeg and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook for about six minutes stirring frequently until the apples soften and the mixture thickens like a jam with no visible liquid. Remove from heat and let cool completely before assembling the pies so the filling handles easily.

Shape the Pastry Rounds:

On a lightly floured counter lay out the fully thawed pie crust sheets. Use a four to five inch round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut eight circles total. Gather scraps together and roll out again if necessary to make more circles.

Fill and Seal the Hand Pies:

Place about one tablespoon of the cooled apple filling onto the center of four pastry rounds. Top each with another pastry circle and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal completely. This will keep the filling from leaking during air frying.

Apply Egg Wash and Sugar:

Beat the egg with milk in a small bowl until combined into an even egg wash. Brush lightly over the tops and edges of each hand pie. Sprinkle granulated sugar on top to create a crunchy golden finish when baked.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Turn on the air fryer to three hundred fifty degrees and let it preheat for three minutes. This ensures the pies will cook evenly right from the start.

Air Fry to Golden Perfection:

Arrange the hand pies in a single layer inside the air fryer basket allowing space around each for air circulation. Depending on your air fryer size you may need to cook in two batches. Cook for ten to twelve minutes until the crust is crisp and deeply golden.

Cool and Finish:

Use a spatula to transfer the pies to a cooling rack until just warm to the touch. Optionally dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze for extra sweetness. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

I love sneaking the extra caramelized apple bits that bubble out on the tray while baking. To me these pies are more than a dessert they bring back cozy family movie nights filled with laughter and the comforting scent of autumn.

Storage Tips

Allow pies to cool fully before storing to prevent condensation from softening the crust. Keep them airtight at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to four days. To refresh their crispiness gently reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If brown sugar is unavailable try coconut sugar or maple syrup for an interesting flavor variation. Gluten free pie crusts can be used with great results. Substitute apples with pears or add dried cranberries to the filling for extra burst of tartness. Mixing tart and sweet apples can also elevate the taste.

Serving Suggestions

Best enjoyed warm with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for that perfect pairing. For brunch or parties cut smaller pastry rounds to make mini hand pies. Sprinkling cinnamon sugar and dipping edges mimics a donut like treat that friends adore.

These golden hand pies are simple to make and perfect for sharing. Serve warm with ice cream or a drizzle of glaze for a cozy finish.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ How do I prevent the filling from making the crust soggy?

Allow the apple filling to cool completely before placing it in the pastry to avoid moisture seepage that softens the crust.

→ Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Pears, peaches, or berries can substitute apples when spiced and thickened similarly, providing variety while maintaining texture.

→ What type of pie crust works best for these hand pies?

Refrigerated pie crusts offer convenience and flaky texture, but homemade dough can be used for a more personalized touch.

→ How can I achieve a golden, crisp crust?

Brush the pies with an egg wash and sprinkle sugar on top before air frying for a shiny, golden finish and crispiness.

→ Is it possible to prepare the pies ahead of time?

You can assemble and refrigerate the hand pies before air frying, but cooking them fresh delivers the best texture.