As the crisp autumn leaves begin to fall, the kitchen fills with a fragrant warmth that instantly brings comfort. Today, I want to share my favorite Fried Apple Pies Recipe, a delightful nod to old-fashioned desserts that captures the essence of cozy family gatherings. With a flaky, buttery crust made from scratch and a sweet cinnamon apple filling, these Homemade Amish-Style Fried Apple Pies are incredibly easy to whip up, making them an ideal treat for any busy home chef. They are not just delicious; they are also a fantastic way to savor the season’s bounty, free from additives and preservatives. Whether enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or savoring each bite alongside a steaming cup of coffee, these pies promise to bring smiles to your table. Curious about how to make these golden delights? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Why Are Fried Apple Pies So Tempting?

Irresistible Flavors: Each bite bursts with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple goodness that speaks to your taste buds and warms your heart.

Homemade Goodness: Made with simple ingredients, these old-fashioned pies are free from preservatives, offering a wholesome dessert experience.

Quick and Easy: Mastering this recipe takes just a short amount of time, allowing you to enjoy fresh pies without spending all day in the kitchen.

Versatile Filling Options: Feel free to experiment! Substitute apples with berries or use your favorite jam for a personalized twist.

Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for any gathering, these fried pies will surely impress friends and family, making them a go-to dessert for occasions.

Savor the flavor as you enjoy these delights with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent experience!

Fried Apple Pies Recipe Ingredients

For the Filling
• Granny Smith Apples – Tartness provides balance; substitute with Honeycrisp for added sweetness.
• Red Delicious Apples – Adds natural sweetness and color; can be replaced entirely for your preference.
• Brown Sugar – For sweetness and moisture in filling; white sugar can serve as a substitute if needed.
• Cinnamon – Provides warmth and flavor to the filling; add nutmeg for extra spice if desired.
• Vanilla – Enhances overall flavor; use vanilla extract or paste for the best results.
• Cornstarch – Thickens the filling; arrowroot powder is a great alternative.

For the Crust
• Self-Rising Flour – Creates the crust’s delightful structure and lightness; all-purpose flour plus baking powder can work too.
• Butter – Adds richness and flavor to the crust; while margarine may be substituted, butter is recommended for the best taste.
• Egg Yolks – Provides richness and vibrant color; full eggs can replace if you only have those on hand.
• Milk – Helps create a moist dough; consider non-dairy alternatives like almond milk for variation.

For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and a lovely finish; granulated sugar can be finely blended as an alternative.
• Oil – For frying; vegetable or canola oil works well if you need options.

These ingredients create the perfect Fried Apple Pies Recipe that keeps your family coming back for more!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fried Apple Pies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Apple Filling
Peel, core, and finely dice the Granny Smith and Red Delicious apples, then place them in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla, stirring gently until the mixture starts to bubble and the apples become tender, about 5–7 minutes. Mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water, then stir into the filling until thickened and glossy, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make Pie Dough
Sift the self-rising flour into a large bowl, then cut in the butter until crumbly, resembling coarse crumbs. In a small pan, heat the milk until just hot, then whisk in the egg yolks. Gradually mix the hot milk mixture into the flour until a dough forms. Knead the dough gently on a floured surface until smooth, about 3–5 minutes. If time allows, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble Pies
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness and cut into circles, roughly 5 inches in diameter. Place a tablespoon of the cooled apple filling in the center of each circle. Carefully fold each dough circle in half, pressing the edges together firmly to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges and ensure no filling leaks out while frying.

Step 4: Fry
In a deep skillet or large pot, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is ready, drop in a wooden spoon; if bubbles form around it, it’s hot enough. Carefully lower the filled pies into the oil, frying them in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown, turning halfway for even cooking. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Prepare Glaze
In a bowl, mix the powdered sugar with a splash of vanilla and enough milk to reach a smooth drizzle consistency. Once the fried apple pies are still warm, brush the glaze generously over the tops, allowing it to gently soak in and create a sweet finishing touch. Serve warm for the best taste, and enjoy your homemade Fried Apple Pies!

What to Serve with Homemade Amish-Style Fried Apple Pies

Pairing these delightful fried treats with the perfect accompaniments elevates your dessert experience to new heights.

Vanilla Ice Cream: Provides a cool, creamy contrast to the warm, crispy pies, creating a heavenly balance. The melting ice cream adds an extra layer of indulgence, making each bite irresistible.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or a fragrant herbal tea adds a cozy touch, enhancing the experience. The subtle bitterness of coffee beautifully complements the sweet sweetness of the pies.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a luscious texture alongside the crispy crust. It’s a classic touch that feels both indulgent and airy, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Sprinkling a bit more cinnamon sugar over the tops brings added warmth and sweetness. It enhances the aromatic experience as you take each bite.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce adds a rich, buttery sweetness that pairs beautifully with apples. It makes these pies a showstopper, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing option, a mixed berry fruit salad adds brightness and a pop of freshness. The tartness of the berries beautifully contrasts the rich flavors of the fried pies.

Enjoy these pairings on a beautiful autumn day, bringing warmth and joy to your family gatherings!

Expert Tips for Fried Apple Pies

Flaky Crust: Don’t overwork the dough; handle it gently to keep the crust light and flaky. Let it rest if rolling becomes tough.
Filling Control: Avoid overfilling your pies with apple mixture. A tablespoon is perfect; too much may cause bursting during frying!
Sealing Edges: For best results, seal the edges tightly with a fork to prevent any delicious filling from leaking out while frying.
Oil Temperature: Keep oil at a consistent 350°F. Use a candy thermometer or the wooden spoon test to ensure even cooking.
Cooking Batches: Fry in small batches to avoid dropping the oil temperature and ensure golden, crispy Fried Apple Pies every time.

Fried Apple Pies Recipe Variations

Feel free to personalize your fried apple pies with these delightful twists, making each bite even more special!

Fruit Swap: Replace apples with other fruits like blueberries or peaches for a new flavor experience. You can even try using preserves for a sweet, gooey filling!
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for a delightful crunch and richness that enhances the overall taste. It’s a lovely surprise in every bite!
Spiced Crust: Incorporate a dash of nutmeg or ginger into the pie dough for an aromatic twist. The spiced crust pairs beautifully with the warm apple filling.
Vegan Option: Swap butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine and use plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly version. You won’t lose any flavors, just gain new ones!
Extra Zing: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice or zest to your apple filling for a bright, tangy kick that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Sweet Glaze Variety: Instead of traditional powdered sugar glaze, drizzle with caramel sauce for a rich and indulgent finish. Put this on a warm pie for a melty delight!
Savory Spice: For a fun twist, introduce a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon for a spicy kick. It adds a surprising depth that your taste buds will love!

Don’t hesitate to get creative! These variations not only add unique flavors but can turn your fried apple pies into a seasonal favorite reminiscent of cozy gatherings, just like the nostalgia evoked by Air Fryer Apple or the remarkable Brown Sugar Apple recipes.

Make Ahead Options

These Fried Apple Pies are perfect for busy home cooks wanting to save time without sacrificing quality! You can prepare the apple filling up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can assemble the pies (un-fried) and freeze them for up to 3 months. This method ensures the crust remains flaky when fried straight from the freezer. When you’re ready to cook, just heat your oil and fry the pies directly from frozen until golden brown, adding that comforting, homemade touch to your table with minimal effort—just as delicious as if they were made fresh!

Storage Tips for Fried Apple Pies

Room Temperature: Keep leftover fried apple pies wrapped in paper towels and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their delicious flaky crust.

Fridge: For enhanced freshness, refrigerate pies in an airtight container for up to a week. Just be aware that the crust may lose some of its crispness.

Freezer: Freeze un-fried assembled pies for up to 3 months. You can fry them directly from the freezer whenever you crave a quick treat or dessert!

Reheating: To reheat, place the fried pies in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again, allowing you to enjoy that fresh-out-of-the-fryer taste once more.

Fried Apple Pies Recipe FAQs

What type of apples are best for this recipe?
I highly recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the filling beautifully. Red Delicious apples are also great for added natural sweetness and color. If you’re looking for a sweeter option, Honeycrisp apples are a fantastic substitute too!

How should I store leftover fried apple pies?
Store any leftover pies wrapped in paper towels inside an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help keep their crust flaky and delicious. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for longer freshness; just be aware that the crust might lose some of its crispness.

Can I freeze fried apple pies? How?
Absolutely! You can freeze un-fried assembled pies for up to 3 months. After preparing them, lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to fry, simply cook them directly from the freezer without thawing for a quick and delightful treat!

What if my dough is too tough to roll out?
If your dough feels tough, it might have been overworked, or it could simply need some rest. I recommend covering the dough with plastic wrap and letting it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This will relax the gluten and make it much easier to roll out. Just remember to handle it gently!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, there are several adaptations you can make. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with margarine or coconut oil, and use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk. For gluten-free needs, opt for a gluten-free flour blend to create the crust while ensuring the thickener used in the filling is also gluten-free.

Can I make these pies with other fruits?
Definitely! These fried pies are quite versatile. You can use berries or stone fruits such as peaches or plums for filling instead of apples. Just remember to adjust the sweetness as different fruits have varying levels of natural sugars. Also, adding a splash of lemon juice can enhance the flavor profile beautifully!