The Sweet Aroma of Autumn in Every Bite
Imagine walking into a cozy kitchen filled with the irresistible scent of warm caramel and freshly baked apples. That’s exactly what these Caramel Apple Hand Pies deliver! This delightful recipe combines the nostalgic flavors of caramel and apple in a quick and easy package, perfect for any time you crave a sweet treat. Whether it’s a chilly day or a festive gathering, these pies are sure to become a favorite.
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you rush to the kitchen for these hand pies? Well, for starters, they are super easy to make! You don’t need any fancy equipment. Plus, cleanup is a breeze — nobody wants to face a mountain of dirty dishes after baking. And let’s be real, who wouldn’t be lured by the idea of indulging in flaky pastry filled with gooey caramel? They also make a great dessert for kids and adults alike. Get ready to impress your family, one hand pie at a time!
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics! Here’s what you’ll need for these sweet treats:
- 2 cups gluten-free pie crust
- 3 cups apples, peeled and diced
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
Directions
Ready to whip these up? Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, caramel sauce, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Mix well and set aside.
- Roll out the gluten-free pie crust and cut it into circles (about 4-5 inches in diameter) using a cookie cutter or a sharp knife.
- Place a spoonful of the apple caramel filling onto one half of each pie crust circle.
- Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the hand pies with this mixture.
- Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Caramel Apple Hand Pies!
How to Make Caramel Apple Hand Pies (Overview)
Making these hand pies really is as easy as pie! Start by preheating the oven while you prepare the filling. Blend those juicy apples with caramel, sugar, and a dash of cinnamon to create a rich, sweet mixture. Next, roll out your gluten-free crust and cut those cute circles. Add a generous scoop of filling, and seal them up like little treasure chests of flavor. After light brushing with egg wash, pop them in the oven and let the magic happen! Pro tip: Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes. You want that perfect golden brown!
How to Serve Caramel Apple Hand Pies
Once these hand pies are out of the oven, let your senses take over! The golden crust contrasts beautifully with the decadent caramel filling, creating an inviting aroma that wafts through the air. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a classic touch or drizzle an extra bit of caramel on top for a showstopper presentation. The crunch of the flaky crust complements the sweet, gooey inside — a match made in dessert heaven!
How to Store Caramel Apple Hand Pies
So, how long can you keep these delicious bites? If stored in an airtight container, they’ll last about 3-5 days in the fridge. You can also freeze them for longer storage — just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and stash them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to devour them, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Perfection awaits!
Tips to Make Caramel Apple Hand Pies
Ready for some insider tricks? Here are a few:
- Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a better texture.
- If you want to reduce sugar, opt for unsweetened caramel sauce.
- Feeling fancy? Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or some crushed nuts for extra crunch!
- Brush the crust with butter instead of an egg wash for a vegan alternative.
Variation
Looking to shake things up? Incorporate pears for a delightful twist, or add a dash of vanilla extract to your filling. Want it vegan? Swap the egg wash for a plant-based milk or simply skip it altogether. The best part about these hand pies is how versatile they can be!
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Make the dough in advance, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days or freeze for a month.
2. What other fruits can I use for these hand pies?
Feel free to experiment! Any fruit like cherries, peaches, or even berries work beautifully.
3. How do I make the filling less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of caramel sauce and sprinkle in some lemon zest for a nice zesty balance.
Get ready to treat yourself to these heavenly Caramel Apple Hand Pies — you won’t regret it!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Caramel Apple Hand Pies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, caramel sauce, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Mix well and set aside.
- Roll out the gluten-free pie crust and cut it into circles (about 4-5 inches in diameter) using a cookie cutter or a sharp knife.
- Place a spoonful of the apple caramel filling onto one half of each pie crust circle.
- Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the hand pies with this mixture.
- Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.