Mini Apple Hand Pies (Too Cute to Resist!) 🥧🍎

Why You’ll Love These Mini Apple Hand Pies

Mini Apple Hand Pies are everything you love about classic apple pie, but in a fun, grab-and-go format! They’re:

• Crispy outside, gooey inside

• Portable and party-ready

• Perfect for kids, holidays, and lunchbox surprises

• Way easier than a full-size pie!

If you’re craving a quick, homemade version of apple pie that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, these mini hand pies will be your new go-to fall dessert. 🍂

---

🧑‍🍳 What Are Mini Apple Hand Pies?

Mini Apple Hand Pies are individual pocket-sized pies made with flaky pastry dough and a spiced apple filling. They’re usually baked until golden and can be glazed or sprinkled with cinnamon sugar.
These adorable little treats are inspired by traditional apple pie, but come together much quicker — and require no slicing or plating.

They’re perfect for:

• Holiday dessert platters

• Bake sales

• School lunches

• Thanksgiving appetizers

• Cozy weeknight treats

Let’s dive into this easy homemade recipe that guarantees pie-like satisfaction with half the effort.

---

📝 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make these easy Mini Apple Hand Pies at home.

For the Apple Filling:

• 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced small

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp cornstarch (for thickening)

For the Dough:

• 1 package (2 sheets) of refrigerated pie crust (or use homemade if preferred)

For Assembly:

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

• 1 tbsp milk

• Coarse sugar or cinnamon sugar for topping (optional)

✅ Tip: Want to make it extra special? Add a spoonful of caramel sauce inside each pie before sealing for Caramel Apple Hand Pies.

---

👩‍🍳 How to Make Mini Apple Hand Pies (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook for 5–7 minutes until apples are soft but not mushy.

3. Stir in the vanilla and cornstarch. Simmer 1–2 more minutes until thickened.

4. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely.

🔥 Pro Tip: Chill the filling before assembling — warm filling can make the dough soggy or cause it to tear.

---

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. Roll out the pie dough on a floured surface.

2. Use a 3.5–4 inch round cookie cutter (or a glass) to cut out circles.

3. Gather scraps and re-roll if needed to get about 12 rounds.

---

Step 3: Fill and Seal

1. Add about 1–1.5 tablespoons of apple filling to the center of half the rounds.

2. Brush the edges with egg wash (egg + milk).

3. Top with another dough round, gently pressing edges together.

4. Crimp edges with a fork to seal completely.

❗ Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overfill — it’ll cause the pies to burst or leak during baking.

---

Step 4: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place hand pies spaced apart.

3. Brush the tops with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar (optional).

4. Cut a small slit on top of each pie for venting.

5. Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden brown.

---

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let them cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm or room temp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel. 😍

---

📊 Nutritional Information (Per Hand Pie)

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on pie crust brand and exact apple size.

---

💡 Tips & Variations

Pro Tips:

• Chop apples small: They cook quicker and create better filling texture.

• Seal well: Press edges firmly to avoid leaks. Use fork tines and egg wash.

• Cool before storing: Avoid sogginess by letting them cool fully first.

Variations:

• Glazed Version: Mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tsp milk and drizzle over cooled pies.

• Add Nuts: Stir chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling.

• Spiced Up: Add a dash of cardamom or clove for a warm, complex flavor.

• Make it Vegan: Use vegan butter and pie crust, and skip the egg wash.

---

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Storage:

• Store cooled hand pies in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freezing:

• Wrap each baked hand pie in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

• Thaw at room temp or reheat directly from frozen.

Reheating:

• Oven/Toaster Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.

• Microwave: 20–30 seconds (crust won’t stay as crisp).

🧊 Avoid reheating too long or the filling may ooze out!

---

❓ FAQs About Mini Apple Hand Pies

Q1: Can I use puff pastry instead of pie crust?

Absolutely! Puff pastry gives a flakier, more buttery result. Just reduce baking time slightly (15–18 minutes).

Q2: What are the best apples to use?

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn apples are great. They hold their shape and provide a tart balance to the sweetness.

Q3: Can I make these ahead?

Yes! You can assemble them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Or freeze unbaked and bake directly from frozen (add 3–5 minutes to baking time).

Q4: Why are my hand pies leaking?

Usually due to overfilling or not sealing well. Use a light hand on filling and press edges firmly with a fork. Chill before baking for best results.

---

📣 Final Thoughts — Save & Share This Mini Pie Magic!

Mini Apple Hand Pies are the ultimate cozy treat — nostalgic, adorable, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or just craving something sweet and warm, these handheld delights are a must-make.

If this recipe made your mouth water, don’t keep it to yourself!
📌 Save this recipe to Pinterest
📤 Share it with your apple-loving friends
💬 Leave a comment with your twist on it!