Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies Crispy and Delicious Treat

If you crave a sweet treat that’s easy to make, you’ll love these Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies! Crispy on the outside and deliciously filled with warm apples and spices, they are the perfect dessert for any occasion. In this guide, I’ll share simple steps and tips to help you create these mouth-watering treats. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your baking skills!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and steps, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a warm, comforting flavor that’s irresistible.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These hand pies are a delightful treat for parties, picnics, or simply a cozy night in.
- Healthy Twist: Using an air fryer reduces the amount of oil needed, making these hand pies a healthier dessert option.
Ingredients
Required Ingredients for Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies
– 1 large apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced into small chunks
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional for extra warmth)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 package of pre-made pie crusts (contains 2 crusts)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for topping)
To make these air fryer apple hand pies, choose a large apple. I like Granny Smith for its tartness. Honeycrisp works well too.
You will need lemon juice to keep your apples from browning. Brown sugar adds a nice caramel flavor. Cinnamon and nutmeg give warmth to the filling.
Using pre-made pie crusts saves time. They come rolled and ready to use. For the golden finish, you need an egg wash. The sugar on top adds a sweet crunch.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be ready to start your apple pie adventure!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Apple Filling
First, take one large apple, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Peel and dice it into small chunks. Then, in a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced apple with one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, one tablespoon of packed brown sugar, half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a quarter teaspoon of optional nutmeg. Toss the mixture well so every piece of apple is coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors mix and become more vibrant.
Rolling Out the Crust
Next, take your pre-made pie crusts. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the crusts gently. This keeps them smooth and even. Use a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out circles about 4 inches wide. Make sure to cut enough circles to hold all your filling.
Assembling and Sealing the Hand Pies
Now it’s time to assemble! Place half of the pie crust circles on a clean, flat surface. Spoon about a tablespoon of the apple filling into the center of each circle. Leave space at the edges for sealing. To seal them, moisten the edges with a pastry brush or your fingertip using a beaten egg. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly, then crimp them with a fork. This keeps the filling inside while cooking.
Preheating and Cooking in the Air Fryer
Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating is key to getting that perfect crispy texture. Brush the tops of the hand pies with any leftover beaten egg. This gives them a nice golden finish. Sprinkle a bit of granulated sugar on top for extra sweetness and a crunchy bite. Arrange the hand pies in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching. This helps them cook evenly. Cook them for 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure they brown nicely on both sides.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Hand Pie Dough
To avoid shrinking, chill your dough before rolling. Cold dough holds its shape better. Roll the crust gently to keep it thick and even. Use a light touch when cutting out the circles. If you press too hard, the dough may lose its structure.
For a flakier crust, use cold butter. Cut it into small pieces before mixing it into the flour. You can also add a splash of vinegar or cold water to the dough. This helps it stay tender while baking.
Achieving a Golden Brown Finish
For a perfect golden color, brush the tops with beaten egg before cooking. This gives the crust a nice shine. Make sure to cover the edges too, so they brown well.
Sprinkling sugar on top adds sweetness and a crunchy texture. Use coarse sugar for a better crunch. This small step makes a big difference in the final look and taste.
Handling the Apple Filling
Choose the best apple varieties for your pies. Granny Smith apples are tart and hold their shape well. Honeycrisp apples add sweetness and juiciness. You can mix different types for a balanced flavor.
To balance sweetness with acidity, add lemon juice to the filling. It brightens the flavor and cuts through the sweetness. You can also add a pinch of salt, which enhances all the flavors.
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor and texture, opt for firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, which hold their shape during cooking.
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the hand pies with apple mixture; leaving some space around the edges ensures they seal properly and prevents bursting during cooking.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to customize the spice blend in the filling. Adding a pinch of ginger or allspice can elevate the flavor profile of your hand pies.
- Serve Warm: These hand pies are best enjoyed warm. Consider pairing them with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra treat!

Variations
Different Apple Fillings
You can switch up the apple filling in many ways. Try adding more spices to make it unique. You can include:
– Ground ginger for a warm kick.
– Allspice for a richer taste.
– Vanilla extract for a sweet touch.
If you want, you can even use other fruits. Berries like blueberries or strawberries are great choices. Cherries also work well. Just adjust the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness.
Crust Options
You can make the crust from scratch if you feel adventurous. Use flour, butter, and water to create a flaky dough. This adds a personal touch and flavor. If you prefer, you can use pre-made crusts for ease.
For gluten-free options, you can use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Just follow the package directions for the best results. This way, everyone can enjoy the hand pies.
Creative Serving Ideas
Serving ideas can elevate your hand pies. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side is always a hit. The cold ice cream pairs well with the warm pie.
You can also drizzle caramel sauce over the top. This adds sweetness and a lovely shine.
Enjoy the hand pies warm for the best taste. They are delightful fresh from the air fryer. If you let them cool, they can still be tasty but lose some crispness.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
To keep your air fryer apple hand pies fresh, use simple methods. First, let them cool completely. Place the cooled pies in an airtight container. You can refrigerate them for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them. Wrap each pie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you want to eat them, reheating is key. For the best crispiness, use the air fryer. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Heat the hand pies for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps the crust crunchy and the filling warm. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also use an oven. This way, you get a great texture.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, hand pies last about 3 days. If you freeze them, they can be safe for up to 3 months. After this time, they may lose flavor and texture. Always check for signs of spoilage. Look for mold or an off smell. If the pie feels soggy or looks discolored, it’s best to toss it. Enjoy your hand pies while they are fresh for the best taste!
FAQs
How long do you cook apple hand pies in an air fryer?
You cook apple hand pies in an air fryer for 10-12 minutes at 380°F (193°C). This time ensures a crispy, golden finish. Flip the hand pies halfway through. This helps them brown evenly.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the filling ahead of time. Mix the diced apple, lemon juice, brown sugar, and spices. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps it fresh for up to two days. Just remember to stir it before using.
What other fruits can I use for hand pies?
You can use many fruits for hand pies. Seasonal options include berries, peaches, or cherries. Each fruit offers a unique flavor. You can adjust the sugar and spices to match the fruit’s sweetness.
Can I use store-bought dough for these hand pies?
Yes, store-bought dough makes it easy and quick. Use pre-made pie crusts for a fast option. They save you time and effort. Just roll them out and cut your circles as directed in the recipe.
In this article, we explored how to make delicious air fryer apple hand pies. We covered essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to perfect your pies. I shared ways to vary the flavors and crusts, as well as best practices for storing leftovers.
With these pointers, you can create tasty hand pies that impress. Enjoy experimenting with different fruits and serving ideas. Happy cookin

Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies
Ingredients
- 1 large apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced into small chunks
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional for extra warmth)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 package pre-made pie crusts (contains 2 crusts)
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for topping)
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced apple with the lemon juice, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and optional nutmeg. Toss the mixture thoroughly until the apple pieces are evenly coated. Set this aside to let the flavors blend for about 10 minutes.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pie crusts gently to ensure they are smooth. Using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass, cut out circles that measure approximately 4 inches in diameter.
- Place half of the pie crust circles on a clean, flat surface. Spoon about a tablespoon of the apple filling into the center of each circle, making sure to leave enough room at the edges for sealing.
- With a pastry brush or your fingertip, moisten the edges of each circle with the beaten egg. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly, then use a fork to crimp and seal them securely.
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes, allowing it to reach the optimal cooking temperature.
- Brush the tops of the hand pies with any remaining beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden finish. Sprinkle granulated sugar on top for added sweetness and a delightful crunch.
- Arrange the hand pies in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching to allow even cooking. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Cook the hand pies for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they are evenly browned on both sides.
- Once done, carefully remove the hand pies from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. They may be hot inside, so allow them to rest before serving.




![- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking soda - ½ teaspoon baking powder - ½ teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg - ½ teaspoon ground ginger - ½ cup granulated sugar - ½ cup brown sugar, packed firmly - 2 large eggs - 1 cup pumpkin puree - ½ cup vegetable oil - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips - ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional) To make Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread, you need simple ingredients. You’ll want to gather flour, sugars, eggs, and pumpkin puree. Pumpkin puree gives the bread moisture and flavor. The spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, add warmth and depth. You can use canned pumpkin or make your own from fresh pumpkins. Using two types of sugar helps balance the flavor. Granulated sugar adds sweetness, while brown sugar adds a rich, caramel taste. Don’t forget the chocolate chips! They melt into gooey pockets of joy. If you like nuts, add walnuts for crunch. They complement the sweet and spicy flavors. - 9x5-inch loaf pan - Mixing bowls (medium & large) - Whisk or electric mixer - Spatula or wooden spoon - Parchment paper For baking, you’ll need some tools. A 9x5-inch loaf pan is perfect for this bread. Mixing bowls, both medium and large, will help you combine ingredients. A whisk or electric mixer makes it easy to blend. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold in the chocolate chips. Parchment paper is a must for easy removal after baking. This is your list of ingredients and tools to create a cozy fall treat. You can find the full recipe in the previous sections to guide you through the steps. Enjoy the process of baking and the delightful smell that fills your kitchen! - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). - Grease and line the loaf pan with parchment paper. To start, you need your oven hot. Preheating helps the bread rise well. Greasing the pan is key. It keeps the bread from sticking. Lining it with parchment paper makes removal easy. You’ll thank yourself later! - Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices. - Set aside for later use. Next, grab a mixing bowl. Add the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Toss in the salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Whisk them together until mixed well. This step ensures even flavors in your bread. Set this bowl aside for now. - Beat sugars and eggs until fluffy. - Stir in pumpkin puree, oil, and vanilla extract. In a large bowl, mix granulated and brown sugars with the eggs. Use an electric mixer or a whisk. Beat until it’s light and fluffy. Then, stir in the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and vanilla. Mix until it’s smooth. This creates the moist base for your bread. - Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture. - Fold gently to avoid overmixing. Now, slowly add the dry mix to the wet mix. Use a spatula for this step. Gently fold the ingredients together. Be careful not to overmix. This keeps your pumpkin bread light and airy. - Fold in chocolate chips and optional walnuts. Time for the fun part! Gently fold in the chocolate chips. If you like nuts, add the walnuts now. This gives your bread an amazing crunch and flavor. Ensure they are evenly distributed. - Pour batter into loaf pan and smooth the top. - Bake for 55-65 minutes and check for doneness. Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Place it in the oven. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen! This step brings you closer to a delicious treat. For the full recipe, refer to the entire guide. Checking for doneness is easy. Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready. This method helps ensure you don’t overbake. If you live at a high altitude, you may need to adjust the baking time. Start checking at the 50-minute mark to see if it is done. To keep your chocolate chip pumpkin bread light, avoid overmixing. Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. This small tip makes a big difference! Also, using ingredients at room temperature helps them blend better. Eggs and oil mix more smoothly when they are warm. For a lovely presentation, serve the bread warm with butter. This adds a rich flavor that everyone loves. You can also dust the top with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. Fresh mint leaves make a nice garnish and add a pop of color. Arrange the slices on a wooden board for a rustic feel. This will impress your guests! {{image_4}} You can make this bread gluten-free. Just substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This change keeps the taste and texture similar. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum to improve the bread's structure. Want a vegan option? You can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. For flaxseed, mix one tablespoon with three tablespoons of water. Let this sit until it thickens. Applesauce works well too; use ¼ cup instead of one egg. Also, choose plant-based oils and sugars for a fully vegan treat. Adding fruits like raisins or cranberries gives the bread a fruity twist. These add a burst of flavor and chewiness. You can also swap chocolate chips for white chocolate or caramel. These options create a different taste and make the bread even more exciting. Try mixing and matching for your perfect loaf! To keep your chocolate chip pumpkin bread fresh, store it in two ways. At room temperature, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This method helps maintain its soft texture. You can also refrigerate it to extend its shelf life. In the fridge, it will stay good for about one week. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option! First, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. This will help keep it fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just take it out and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. To warm it up, pop slices in the microwave for a few seconds or use a toaster. Chocolate chip pumpkin bread tastes amazing with drinks! Pair it with coffee or tea for a cozy treat. The warm flavors of the bread go well with hot beverages, making it a perfect snack for fall. You can also serve it with a bit of butter or cream cheese for extra richness. Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned. Using fresh pumpkin can add a deeper flavor. To make fresh puree, cut a pumpkin in half and remove the seeds. Bake the halves at 350°F for about 45 minutes, or until soft. Let them cool, then scoop out the flesh. Blend until smooth for your recipe. Look for a golden-brown top. The bread should spring back when touched gently. For the best test, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is done. If it has wet batter, bake it a bit longer. Yes, you can add more chocolate chips! This will make the bread sweeter and richer. Just remember that too many chips can make the bread dense. Start with an extra half cup if you want more chocolate flavor. Use a sharp serrated knife for clean slices. Wait until the bread has cooled completely. This helps prevent the bread from squishing. Start at one end and slice straight down for even pieces. At room temperature, this bread lasts about 3 to 5 days. Keep it in an airtight container. If you put it in the fridge, it can last up to a week. Just remember that refrigeration can change the texture a bit. Sure! You can use nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom. Each spice brings a new twist to the flavor. Try mixing in a teaspoon of nutmeg for warmth or allspice for a hint of sweetness. Adjust the amount to your taste for a new fall delight. For the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. You now have a complete guide to making Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread. From the key ingredients to equipment and steps, you can easily whip up this tasty treat. Don't forget the tips for storage and variations to customize your bread. Whether you try a gluten-free version or add fruits, the options are endless. Enjoy your baking journey and share this delicious bread with family or friends!](https://joymealplan.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/f538d1de-de93-4194-9f26-14cc05263462-768x768.webp)


