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The foundation of any great pastry lies in its ingredients. For our Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies, we will break down the essential components of both the dough and the filling to ensure you achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies

Discover the joy of baking with this easy recipe for Crispy Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies! These delightful pastries combine sweet, spiced apple filling with a perfectly flaky crust, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Ideal for picnics, parties, or cozy nights at home, these hand pies are not only delicious but also customizable. Embrace the comforting flavors of autumn and bring the warmth of homemade baking into your kitchen with this tasty dessert!
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Ingredients
  

For the dough:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

6-8 tablespoons ice water

For the filling:

3 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 egg (for egg wash)

1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)

For serving:

Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Instructions
 

Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing. Form the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

    Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, mix the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Toss until the apples are well-coated. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

      Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles (about 4-5 inches in diameter). Gather and reroll any scraps as needed.

        Fill the Hand Pies: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On half of each dough circle, place about 1-2 tablespoons of the apple filling. Be careful not to overfill. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

          Prepare for Baking: Place the filled hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the hand pies with the egg wash and cut a small slit or two on top for steam to escape.

            Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.

              Cool and Serve: Allow the hand pies to cool slightly on a wire rack. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your warm, homemade cinnamon apple hand pies!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 minutes | 1 hour | Serves 8