Golden Air Fryer Apple Pies

These golden air fryer apple pies are a perfect way to capture the warm, cozy flavors of autumn without spending hours in the kitchen. The flaky crust paired with tender, cinnamonspiced apple filling makes for an irresistible handheld dessert that is both quick and satisfying. Whether you want a sweet treat after dinner or a snack to share, these hand pies bring comfort and sweetness together effortlessly.

When I first made these, I was amazed by how flaky the crust became in the air fryer. Now they are my go to dessert for a lastminute sweet fix my family always looks forward to.

Ingredients

• Apples: Choose crisp tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and balanced flavor
• Brown sugar: Adds caramellike sweetness and keeps the apples tender throughout cooking
• Lemon juice: Brightens the fruit and prevents the apples from browning before cooking
• Ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and classic pie flavor use a fresh jar to maximize aroma
• Ground nutmeg: Adds gentle spice and complexity fresh nutmeg grated from whole is ideal
• Cornstarch: Thickens the filling so it holds together nicely inside the pies
• Refrigerated pie crusts: Choose a brand known for golden and flaky results ensure crust is fully thawed for easier handling
• Egg: Used in the wash to give the pies a shiny, golden finish
• Milk: Mixed with egg in the wash to help it apply smoothly and add tenderness to the crust
• Granulated sugar: Sprinkled on top for sparkle and a crispy finish
• Powdered sugar or glaze: Optional for a sweet drizzle after baking if desired
• Tip: If possible, freshpicked apples really make the filling shine with natural brightness.

Instructions

Prepare the Spiced Apple Filling:

Combine diced apples brown sugar lemon juice cinnamon nutmeg and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook for about six minutes stirring frequently until the apples soften and the mixture thickens to a jammy texture with no liquid remaining. Set the filling aside to cool completely to make it easier to handle and prevent sogginess later.

Shape the Pastry Rounds:

On a lightly floured surface lay out both fully thawed sheets of pie crust. Using a 4 to 5 inch round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass cut out eight circles. Gather the scraps reroll lightly if needed to cut out additional circles until you have eight rounds total.

Fill and Seal the Hand Pies:

Spoon about one tablespoon of the cooled apple filling onto the center of four pastry circles. Top each with another circle and press the edges firmly all around with a fork to seal well. This prevents the filling from leaking out during cooking.

Apply Egg Wash and Sugar:

Beat the egg with milk in a small bowl until combined. Brush this wash evenly over the tops and edges of each hand pie. Sprinkle granulated sugar on top to help the crust brown and add a satisfying crunch.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Turn on the air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and let it heat for three minutes. Preheating ensures the crust cooks evenly and crisps nicely right from the start.

Air Fry to Golden Perfection:

Place the hand pies inside the air fryer basket in a single layer with space between them for good air circulation. If your basket is small, cook in two batches. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes or until the crust is deeply golden and crisp.

Cool and Finish:

Using a spatula lift the pies onto a cooling rack and let them cool until just warm to the touch. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze if you want. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

One of my favorite moments making these pies is sneaking the caramelized apple bits that bubble out during cooking. It feels like a little reward just for the cook. My family now treasures the smell of these baking as the signal for cozy evenings and movie nights in fall.

Storage Tips

Let the pies cool completely before storing to avoid soggy crusts caused by condensation. Store them in an airtight container on the counter for up to two days or refrigerate for up to four. To refresh their crispiness, reheat them for a few minutes in the air fryer before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have brown sugar use coconut sugar or maple syrup for a delightful twist. Gluten free pie crust works well here. Pears can replace apples for a different fall fruit option or add dried cranberries to the filling for tart bursts. Mixing tart and sweet apple varieties can also add complexity.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these hand pies warm alongside vanilla ice cream or drizzle with caramel sauce for an indulgent treat. For brunch, cut smaller rounds for mini hand pies. My friends love sprinkling extra cinnamon sugar on the edges for a donutlike experience.

Serve these hand pies warm for the best texture and flavor. They reheat beautifully in the air fryer to restore crispness.

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do I prevent the filling from making the crust soggy?

Ensure the apple filling cools completely before placing it inside the pastry. This helps to avoid moisture seepage that can soften the crust.

→ Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Yes, fruits like pears or peaches work well when spiced and thickened similarly, offering a fresh twist on these handheld pies.

→ What type of pie crust is best for these hand pies?

Refrigerated pie crusts provide convenience and a flaky texture, though homemade dough can also be used successfully.

→ How do I get the crust extra golden and crisp?

Brushing the tops with an egg wash and sprinkling sugar before air frying creates a shiny, golden, and crisp finish.

→ Can these be prepared ahead of time?

You can assemble the hand pies and refrigerate them before air frying, but cooking fresh ensures the best texture and crispness.