Description
Crispy, golden on the outside and gooey inside, fried pies are a Southern classic with roots in American kitchens and influences from around the globe.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cubed)
- 1/4 cup cold water (more if needed)
- 1 egg (for sealing edges)
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Vegetable or peanut oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine apples, sugar, butter, lemon juice, and spices. Simmer 8–10 minutes until softened. Stir in cornstarch, then cool completely.
- Mix flour and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly. Add cold water gradually and knead until smooth. Wrap and refrigerate 30 minutes.
- Roll dough to 1/8″ thickness. Cut into 5–6 inch circles.
- Spoon 1–2 tbsp filling in center, brush edges with egg, fold, and seal with a fork.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry pies 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
- Drain on paper towels or rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
Don’t overfill to avoid bursting. Chill pies before frying for best results. Keep oil between 350°F–375°F for a perfect crisp crust.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: Southern American
Keywords: fried pies, hand pies, Southern dessert, apple fried pies