Golden Air Fryer Apple Pies (Printer-Friendly Version)
Flaky hand pies with spiced apples and a golden, crisp air-fried crust for a cozy, sweet ending.
# Ingredients Needed:
→ Fruit Filling
01 -
2 cups diced tart apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
02 -
3 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
03 -
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
04 -
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 -
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
06 -
1 teaspoon cornstarch
→ Pastry
07 -
1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 sheets), thawed
→ Glaze and Topping
08 -
1 large egg
09 -
1 tablespoon milk
10 -
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
11 -
Powdered sugar or glaze for dusting or drizzling (optional)
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Combine diced apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, for about 6 minutes until apples soften and mixture thickens to jam-like consistency. Set aside to cool completely.
02 -
On a lightly floured surface, roll out thawed pie crusts. Using a 4- to 5-inch round cutter, cut eight circles. Re-roll scraps as needed to obtain all circles.
03 -
Place 1 tablespoon of cooled apple filling onto the center of four pastry circles. Top each with a second circle. Press edges firmly with a fork to seal and prevent filling leaks during cooking.
04 -
Beat egg with milk until combined. Lightly brush the tops and edges of each hand pie with the egg wash, then sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the tops.
05 -
Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
06 -
Place hand pies in a single layer inside the air fryer basket with space between each. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and crisp. Cook in batches if necessary.
07 -
Remove pies with a spatula and cool on a rack until warm to the touch. Optionally dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze. Serve warm.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
Cool the apple filling completely before assembling to prevent soggy crust.
02 -
Seal edges firmly with a fork to avoid filling leakage during cooking.
03 -
Brush off excess flour from dough before air frying for a glossy finish.