Have you ever bitten into a freshly baked apple pie and instantly felt a rush of nostalgia? The tender, flaky crust enveloping the sweet and tart warm apple filling is akin to a comforting hug on a chilly autumn day. It’s pure bliss! But what if you could enjoy this classic treat in a more convenient, portable form? Wondering how? Let’s discover together!
Today, we’re taking the traditional apple pie and giving it an innovative twist. We’re transforming it into delightful Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies. Imagine holding a mini pie in your hand, having a bite, and hearing that satisfying crunch as your teeth pierce through the crust. It’s like holding a little piece of happiness right in your palm.
The Magic of Air Fryers
Why are we using an air fryer, you may ask? Well, this piece of technology is nothing short of a wizard’s wand in a kitchen. It has the ability to create a deep-fried texture without relying on unhealthy amounts of oil. This results in dishes that are healthier, but still retain that familiar crunch and taste we all love.
For our Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies, the air fryer ensures that the crust is crispy and golden-brown while the apple filling inside remains tender and juicy. It’s a perfect harmony of textures that will have you reaching for seconds in no time.
A Treat for All Seasons
While apple pies tend to be associated with autumn, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy these hand pies all year round. The combination of sweet apples and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg makes these pies a treat that’s welcome in any season. Plus, hand pies are much easier to serve and eat, making them a perfect option for gatherings and parties.
Want to give a summer twist to these pies? Simply add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Craving for a cozy winter treat? Warm these pies slightly and enjoy them with a cup of hot chocolate. The possibilities are endless!
Putting a Healthy Twist
By now, we know that using an air fryer instead of deep frying is a healthier option. But that’s not the only healthy twist we’re incorporating into our recipe. We’re also using whole wheat flour for the crust. This not only adds a delightful nutty flavor to the pies but also increases their fiber content.
In addition, we’re sweetening our apple filling naturally with honey instead of refined sugar. So, you can enjoy these Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies without any guilt.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4-5 tablespoons ice cold water
- For the filling:
- 2 large apples, peeled and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the butter and blend until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
- Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and chill for an hour.
- Meanwhile, cook the apples, honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg over medium heat. Stir until the apples are soft and the flavors meld together.
- Roll out the chilled dough and cut into circles. Place a spoonful of the apple mixture on each circle, fold over, and seal the edges.
- Cook the pies in the air fryer at 375°F for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. Enjoy warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Tips for Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies
Ensure you don’t overfill the pies to avoid any spillage while cooking. Also, remember to seal the edges properly to keep the filling intact. For an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle some coarse sugar on top of the pies before cooking.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This recipe takes the classic apple pie and elevates it with a modern, healthy twist. The individual serving size makes it perfect for on-the-go snacks or parties. And the best part? Every bite delivers a delightful blend of crisp crust and sweet, spiced apple filling.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 200 kcal