Delicious Caramel Apple Hand Pies

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these scrumptious Caramel Apple Hand Pies. Picture this: buttery pastry enveloping tender spiced apples, all with a delightful gooey caramel surprise tucked inside. These hand pies are a nod to cherished memories of autumn days spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, and now, they can become a beloved tradition in your home too.

I can still recall the joy these Caramel Apple Hand Pies brought when I shared them at a school bake sale. With their portable size and luscious caramel center, they disappeared within minutes, leaving everyone craving more. Whether you’re prepping for a fall gathering or simply looking for a comforting weekend project, these hand pies are a delightful treat that is easy to whip up and even easier to savor. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s bake up some nostalgia together with these unforgettable Caramel Apple Hand Pies.

Quick Benefits

• Nostalgic treat that evokes memories of crisp autumn afternoons
• Portable size makes them perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a cozy weekend project
• Versatile – can be made with apples, pears, or different sauces for a variety of flavors
• Freezer-friendly for easy baking on demand

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Caramel Apple Hand Pies Recipe

• These Caramel Apple Hand Pies evoke the nostalgia of crisp autumn days and cozy kitchens, making them perfect for fall gatherings or a weekend baking project.
• The surprise gooey caramel center adds a delightful twist to the classic apple pie flavor, making them irresistible to both kids and adults.
• The portable size of these hand pies makes them a convenient and fun treat for school bake sales, picnics, lunchboxes, or a Thanksgiving dessert buffet.
• The versatile nature of this recipe allows for personalization by swapping ingredients like using pears instead of apples, dulce de leche instead of caramel sauce, or even chocolate sauce for a unique twist.
• These hand pies can be made in advance, frozen, and baked straight from frozen for a quick and delicious treat on demand, making them a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
• Enjoy these hand pies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate autumn comfort dessert experience.
• The flaky pastry, spiced apple filling, and gooey caramel combine to create a symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients for Delicious Caramel Apple Hand Pies

Filling

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce
• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Pastry

• 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)

Finishing

• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
• Caramel sauce, for drizzling
• 1 egg, beaten

Pro Tips for Delicious Caramel Apple Hand Pies

For perfect Caramel Apple Hand Pies, remember to seal the pastry edges well with a fork to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking. Cutting a small vent on top helps steam escape and ensures a flaky crust. To avoid a messy outcome, be careful not to overfill the pies.

To make preparation easier, assemble the hand pies in advance and store them unbaked in the refrigerator until you’re ready to enjoy them. This way, you can bake them fresh and serve them warm for the best taste and texture. Remember that using firm apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp will hold their shape well and provide a balanced flavor profile for your pies.

How to Make Delicious Caramel Apple Hand Pies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Add diced apples, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender yet firm.

Step 3: Add Caramel and Cool

Take the skillet off the heat, then mix in 1/4 cup of caramel sauce until well combined. Transfer the filling to a bowl and allow it to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare Pie Crusts

Dust a clean work surface with flour. Unroll refrigerated pie crusts and gently roll them out. Cut each crust into 4 squares.

Step 5: Fill and Form Hand Pies

Spoon 2 tablespoons of the cooled apple-caramel filling onto the center of each pastry square. Fold the square in half diagonally to form a triangle and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.

Step 6: Arrange and Vent

Transfer the prepared pies to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg and make a small slit in each for steam to escape.

Step 7: Bake

Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the pastry turns golden brown.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Take out of the oven and let cool for a bit. Drizzle with more caramel sauce and sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Storage Tips

After making these delightful Caramel Apple Hand Pies, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep them fresh for longer, it’s best to refrigerate them and then reheat briefly in a toaster oven when you’re ready to enjoy them again. To freeze the hand pies, prepare them through the sealing step, freeze them individually on a baking sheet, and then transfer them to a bag. This way, you can bake fresh pies whenever the craving strikes.

For those looking to make variations to the recipe, consider using firm pears instead of apples for a different twist, or swapping caramel sauce with dulce de leche or chocolate sauce for unique flavors. Pre-made gluten-free pie crusts can also be used for those with dietary restrictions. Serve these hand pies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a cozy autumn treat. Whether packed in lunchboxes or enjoyed at a picnic, these hand pies are a delightful portable pastry that captures the essence of fall.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have apples on hand, firm pears can be a great substitute for a slightly different flavor profile. To deepen the caramel flavor, swap the caramel sauce with dulce de leche or even chocolate sauce for a unique twist that chocolate and caramel lovers will enjoy. Pre-made gluten-free pie crusts can be used as a suitable alternative for those following a gluten-free diet without compromising on taste or texture.

When making these hand pies, ensure the pastry edges are sealed well with a fork to prevent the filling from leaking during baking. Be cautious not to overfill the pies, and consider cutting a small vent on top to allow steam to escape while baking. To prepare in advance, assemble the hand pies and store them unbaked in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake and enjoy them, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious.

Serving Suggestions

These Caramel Apple Hand Pies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. For a cozy autumn dessert, serve them warm with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. The combination of the buttery pastry, spiced apples, and gooey caramel is pure comfort food.

For a fun and portable snack, pack these hand pies in lunchboxes or wrap them in parchment paper for a picnic. The individual serving size makes them perfect for sharing at fall gatherings or enjoying as a special after-school treat. Whether served fresh from the oven or reheated briefly in a toaster oven, these hand pies are sure to bring a nostalgic touch to any occasion.

FAQs for Delicious Caramel Apple Hand Pies

Can I make these hand pies in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the hand pies in advance and store them unbaked in the refrigerator. Simply bake them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.

What type of apples work best for these hand pies?

Firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well for these hand pies. They hold their shape during baking and provide a balanced flavor.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce for this recipe?

Yes, both store-bought and homemade caramel sauce work well for this recipe. You can use your preferred option for easy preparation.

How should I store leftover hand pies?

After they have cooled, store the hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their best texture.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Hand Pies are more than just a treat; they are a warm hug on a crisp autumn day, a sweet reminder of cherished memories, and a delightful indulgence to be shared with loved ones. Whether you’re baking these hand pies for a bake sale, a family gathering, or simply to savor a quiet moment with a cup of tea, their buttery crust, spiced apple filling, and gooey caramel center are sure to bring smiles all around.

Embrace the fall season with the comforting aroma of freshly baked Caramel Apple Hand Pies wafting through your kitchen and the joy of biting into a perfectly flaky pastry filled with caramel-coated apples. Experiment with different variations, fillings, and presentation ideas to make these hand pies your own signature treat. Let the spirit of autumn inspire you as you create these delightful hand pies, and share the love with those around you. Happy baking, and enjoy the cozy goodness of homemade Caramel Apple Hand Pies!