Ingredients

2 cups diced tart apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

3 tbsp brown sugar

1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

1 tbsp cornstarch

2 sheets refrigerated pie crust, thawed

1 large egg

1 tbsp milk

1 tbsp granulated sugar

Optional: powdered sugar or glaze for dusting or drizzling

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the spiced apple filling by combining diced apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the apples soften and the mixture thickens, about 6 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

Step 2: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed pie crust sheets. Use a 4-5 inch round cutter or the rim of a glass to cut eight rounds. Gather scraps and re-roll if needed to make a total of eight circles.

Step 3: Place one tablespoon of the cooled apple filling onto the center of four pastry rounds. Cover each with a remaining round and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal completely.

Step 4: Whisk together the egg and milk to make an egg wash. Brush this mixture over the tops and edges of each hand pie, then sprinkle granulated sugar evenly on top to help create a golden, crisp finish.

Step 5: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Arrange the hand pies in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between each. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crisp. If necessary, cook in batches.

Step 7: Carefully remove the pies with a spatula and let them cool on a rack until they are warm to the touch. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze before serving warm.

Tips & Variations

Use tart apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of sweetness and acidity in the filling.

For a richer filling, add a handful of raisins or chopped nuts to the apple mixture before cooking.

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the pies in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 15-20 minutes.

To avoid soggy bottoms, make sure not to overfill the pies and seal the edges tightly.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated?

Yes, homemade pie crust works well and can add extra flavor, just make sure it is rolled thin enough for even cooking in the air fryer.

How do I know when the pies are done cooking?

The pies are ready when the crust turns a deep golden brown and feels crisp to the touch. The filling should be bubbling slightly if visible.

Dessert

Golden Air Fryer Apple Pies Recipe

Introduction