Fried Pies Recipe

If you’ve never tasted Fried Pies, prepare for a treat that’s pure comfort and joy in every flaky, fruit-filled bite! These golden pockets of happiness combine a buttery, crisp pastry with a warm, sweet filling—making them an incredible homemade dessert that’s simple enough for a casual afternoon but special enough for your holiday table. Whether you love apples, peaches, or classic cherries, Fried Pies always deliver that nostalgic, irresistible delight we all crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Fried Pies so delightful is that you only need a handful of everyday ingredients! Each component plays a starring role—think golden crust, juicy fruit, and that dreamy dusting of sugar on top. With just a few basics, you can create something truly magical at home.

• Flour: All-purpose flour lays the groundwork for the dough, providing just the right amount of structure and crispiness.
• Butter: Cold, unsalted butter is the key to a beautifully tender and flaky pastry.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the dough and the filling, balancing tart and tangy flavors.
• Salt: Never skip the salt—it sharpens and brightens all the sweet flavors!
• Baking Powder: Adds a little lift, giving the crust delicate layers when fried.
• Vanilla Extract (optional): A splash of vanilla makes the pastry extra aromatic (I love it for a hint of warmth).
• Cold Water: Pulls the dough together without melting the butter; use just enough to hydrate and bind everything.
• Fresh or Canned Fruit: Apples, peaches, or cherries are classic, but you can swap in your seasonal favorites.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the fruit filling so it doesn’t run out when you bite into each pie.
• Lemon Juice (optional): A splash of lemon brightens and enhances the fruit’s natural flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon (optional): Perfect for spiced fruit fillings—absolutely dreamy with apples or pears!
• Vegetable or Sunflower Oil: Light oils like these are ideal for frying, creating a perfect golden crust without a heavy aftertaste.
• Powdered Sugar (optional): Finish each pie with a cloud of sweetness for that irresistible bakery look.

How to Make Fried Pies

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Add the chilled butter cubes, using your fingertips or a pastry cutter to work it in until the mixture resembles coarse sand. If you’re using vanilla extract, stir it in now. Drizzle in cold water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing gently just until the dough comes together. You want it to be supple but not sticky—a soft, touchable dough that holds its shape when pressed. Avoid overworking so the baked pies stay tender and airy!

Step 2: Knead and Chill

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and give it a quick, gentle knead for another minute or two—just until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This brief rest lets the gluten relax and firms up the butter, making rolling infinitely easier and helping ensure flaky, crisp Fried Pies.

Step 3: Prepare the Fruit Filling

While the dough chills, stir together your chosen fruit, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and cinnamon in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring as needed, until the fruit softens and the mixture thickens into a pie-like filling (about 10 minutes). Allow this filling to cool to room temperature before assembling—warm filling could melt your pastry prematurely, making it harder to handle.

Step 4: Roll and Cut the Dough

Dust your countertop with flour and roll the chilled dough into a sheet about 1/8 inch thick. Using a round cookie cutter or the rim of a drinking glass, stamp out circles about 4-5 inches wide. Each will be transformed into a mini hand pie—perfectly portioned and oh-so-cute!

Step 5: Fill, Fold, and Seal

Spoon a generous tablespoon or two of cooled fruit filling onto the center of each round. Carefully fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges closed. Use a fork to crimp the edges, sealing the pies and adding a charming decorative touch.

Step 6: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F. Test if it’s ready by dropping in a little piece of dough—it should sizzle excitedly! Working in batches, slip the pies into the hot oil. Fry 2-3 minutes per side, flipping with tongs, until they’re deeply golden and crisp. Transfer to paper towels to drain and cool slightly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the Fried Pies to cool enough to handle—they’re piping hot at first! If desired, give them a dusting of powdered sugar right before serving. Each one promises a magic combo of crisp crust and luscious filling in every bite.

How to Serve Fried Pies

Garnishes

I love Fried Pies with a simple dusting of powdered sugar, but you can also drizzle them with a touch of honey or even a vanilla glaze. For a playful finish, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts. Whatever you choose, those golden pies will still be the star!

Side Dishes

Fried Pies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee, spiced chai, or a chilled glass of milk. For a cozy brunch, serve alongside bacon, scrambled eggs, and fresh fruit salad—turning your table into a spread no one can resist. These hand pies even play nicely as an afternoon snack with tea.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the Fried Pies on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment, or stack them in a pretty basket for family-style sharing. For a modern spin, serve individual pies on colorful plates with a scoop of ice cream and a tiny dusting of cinnamon. If you’re gifting, wrap each cooled pie in wax paper and twine for a nostalgic, homemade treat your friends will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any uneaten Fried Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Layer parchment or wax paper between pies to prevent sticking. The crust stays surprisingly crisp if they’re properly cooled before storage!

Freezing

If you want to make a big batch, you can freeze the pies after frying and cooling. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fabulous for up to three months—just pull out as many as you need.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-fryer taste, reheat Fried Pies in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes. Skip the microwave—it can make them soggy. A quick trip through the oven brings the crust back to its crispy, golden glory!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pie dough for Fried Pies?

Absolutely! While homemade dough creates a richer, flakier crust, refrigerated pie dough is a handy shortcut if you’re short on time. Just roll it a little thinner than usual and carry on with the recipe.

What fruits work best for the filling?

Classic options like apples, peaches, and cherries shine in Fried Pies, but feel free to experiment! Blueberries, pears, plums, or a blend of berries work beautifully. Adjust the sugar to taste, depending on your fruit’s natural sweetness.

Can I bake these pies instead of frying?

Yes, you can! Arrange assembled pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake at 400°F until golden (about 18-22 minutes). While you’ll miss some of that signature fried crunch, they’ll still be delicious and satisfying.

How do I keep the filling from leaking out?

Make sure your filling is thick and cooled before you start assembling, and seal the edges tightly with a fork. Don’t overfill—1 to 2 tablespoons is usually the sweet spot for these hand pies.

Are Fried Pies good for parties or gatherings?

They’re a total hit at parties! Their hand-held size means guests can grab and enjoy with no fuss. Stack them on trays or serve warm out of a basket—it’s almost guaranteed no one will be able to stop at just one!

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the mood for something nostalgic, foolproof, and downright delicious, you absolutely must try making Fried Pies at home. Whether you enjoy them solo, with family, or at your next gathering, these little pies are sure to become a new favorite treat. Give it a go—you’ll be so glad you did!

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