Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies

Golden flaky hand pies filled with warm spiced apples are one of the most delightful ways to transform a simple dessert into a cozy treat. These air fryer apple hand pies come together quickly and bake up crisp and tender every time. Perfect for when you crave something sweet but do not want to turn on the oven or fuss with complicated pastry steps.

I made these hand pies the first chilly autumn weekend that apples appeared at the market and now I make them year-round for school lunches or easy weeknight desserts. The kids love helping press the edges and dust with sugar.

Ingredients

• Apples: provide tart juiciness and soften beautifully when cooked Choose crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture
• Brown sugar: brings that classic caramel apple flavor and deep sweetness Look for soft, moist brown sugar without hard clumps
• Lemon juice: brightens the filling so each bite tastes fresh Use freshly squeezed if you can for a zesty lift
• Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: are classic apple pie spices that add warmth Always use fresh spices if possible for bold aroma
• Cornstarch: thickens the filling so it stays neatly inside the pie Make sure it is well mixed to avoid lumps
• Refrigerated pie crusts: keep this quick and easy Choose an all-butter option for richer flavor and check for dairy if needed
• Egg beaten with milk: makes an egg wash for the perfect golden shine on top Use the freshest eggs you have for best gloss
• Granulated sugar: gives a sweet crunchy finish Sprinkle lightly just before baking for sparkle
• Optional powdered sugar or glaze: adds extra sweetness after baking Use a simple milk and sugar glaze for extra shine

Instructions

Prepare the Apple Filling:

In a small saucepan over medium heat combine diced apples brown sugar lemon juice cinnamon nutmeg and cornstarch Cook for about five to six minutes stirring often until the apples soften and the mixture thickens then set aside to cool completely This lets the filling settle and prevents soggy crusts

Cut Out the Pie Rounds:

Unroll the thawed pie crust sheets on a lightly floured surface Use a round cutter or glass to carve out eight circles about four to five inches wide If needed gather the scraps and re-roll for extra rounds to avoid waste

Assemble the Hand Pies:

Spoon around one tablespoon of cooled apple filling onto the center of four rounds Take care not to overfill as this can cause leaks Later place the remaining pie crust rounds on top of the filled ones and gently press around the edges to seal

Seal and Finish the Edges:

With a fork press firmly along the edge of each hand pie making sure the seams are tight This gives a classic look and helps prevent filling from escaping during baking

Brush with Egg Wash and Sugar:

Whisk together egg and milk Using a pastry brush coat each pie’s surface with the mixture to promote browning Then gently sprinkle granulated sugar over each for that signature sweet crunch

Preheat and Arrange in the Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for three minutes Arrange the pies in a single layer within the basket leaving space so air circulates well Bake in batches if necessary so nothing overlaps

Air Fry to Golden Perfection:

Cook for about ten to twelve minutes until the pies are crisp and golden brown Watch carefully near the end to avoid over-browning

Cool and Dress the Pies:

Transfer baked hand pies to a rack and let them cool slightly before serving You can drizzle with glaze or dust with powdered sugar at this stage if you like

Save

Apple is my favorite part of this recipe because of how soft and fragrant it becomes During fall my kids and I will peel apples together as we prep and the scent always fills the kitchen with warmth and anticipation I have fond memories of us making extra to share with neighbors on chilly weekends

Ingredient Swaps and Shortcuts

If you are short on time use a can of quality apple pie filling Pre-made refrigerated pie crusts also let you skip fussing with homemade dough For a dairy-free or vegan version use a plant-based pie crust and skip the egg wash You can brush with plant milk instead

Storing and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days Reheat hand pies in the air fryer at three hundred degrees for two to three minutes This revives the crisp flaky texture better than microwaving You can also freeze unbaked pies arranged on a tray then transfer to a bag and air fry straight from the freezer adding a few extra minutes

Serving Ideas

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for dessert Hand pies also pack easily for picnics or lunch boxes Sprinkle with extra cinnamon sugar or drizzle a simple glaze over the top for holiday gatherings

Cultural Roots and Variations

Hand pies have deep roots as a portable Southern treat but nearly every culture has its version Apple is the classic American flavor for autumn and holidays but fruit fillings can be swapped based on season Try peach in summer mixed berries in spring or add candied ginger for extra zing in winter

Save

Enjoy these hand pies as a quick, cozy treat throughout the seasons. Their warm apple filling and flaky crust will bring smiles to any gathering.

Recipe Questions

→ How do I keep the hand pies from leaking in the air fryer?

Press edges firmly with a fork to seal and avoid overfilling with apple mixture. This helps prevent leaks as they bake.

→ Can I make these pies ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate uncooked pies for up to 1 day or freeze them. Air fry straight from the fridge or freezer, adding a minute or two to the cook time.

→ What apples work best for the filling?

Firm, slightly tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold up well and add flavor balance. Choose your favorite for the perfect filling texture.

→ What should I do if I don’t have a round cutter?

Use a drinking glass or small bowl to cut out rounds from the dough. Any similar-sized object works well.

→ How do I serve air fryer hand pies?

Let them cool slightly before serving. Top with glaze, powdered sugar, or pair with ice cream for a delicious treat.