Introduction
What if I told you that the secret to the best fried dessert isn’t in a bakery—but in your own kitchen? Fried apple pies, once a roadside diner staple, are making a serious comeback. These golden, handheld pastries blend nostalgia with indulgence, wrapping tender cinnamon-sugar apples in a crispy, flaky shell that rivals even the most elaborate desserts.
With searches for “easy fried apple pie recipe” up by 45% over the last 12 months, it’s clear people are craving comfort with a crunch. Whether you’re looking to surprise guests, satisfy a sweet tooth, or rediscover a family favorite, this guide will walk you through everything you need for the perfect batch of fried apple pies.
Let’s roll out the dough and get to the heart of this warm, cinnamon-scented classic.
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you need for this mouthwatering recipe. The ingredients below balance texture and flavor—plus we’ve included tasty substitutions for different dietary needs.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Substitution Options |
|---|---|---|
| Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) | 3 medium, peeled and diced | Pears or peaches for a twist |
| Sugar | 1/3 cup | Coconut sugar for natural sweetness |
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp | Pumpkin spice for a seasonal vibe |
| Nutmeg | 1/4 tsp | Cardamom for an exotic touch |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Apple cider vinegar (1 tsp) |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | Vegan butter or margarine |
| All-purpose flour | 1 tbsp (for thickening filling) | Cornstarch (1 tsp) |
| Refrigerated pie crusts | 2 (store-bought or homemade) | Gluten-free crusts |
| Oil for frying | Enough for 2-inch depth | Air fryer spray (see notes) |
| Powdered sugar | For dusting | Cinnamon sugar for added flavor |
Timing
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cooling Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
That’s 25% faster than traditional baked apple pies!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Apple Filling
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir frequently until apples soften slightly (about 5–6 minutes). Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir for another 2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Roll Out and Cut the Dough
Unroll your pie crusts and use a 4–5″ biscuit cutter or bowl to cut circles. You should get about 6–8 rounds per crust.
3. Fill and Seal
Place about 1.5 tablespoons of apple mixture in the center of each circle. Fold over to make a half-moon shape. Press edges with a fork to seal tightly.
4. Fry to Perfection
Heat oil in a deep skillet or pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower 2–3 pies into the oil. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown.
5. Drain and Dust
Transfer fried pies to a paper towel–lined plate. Let cool for 2–3 minutes, then dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar.
Optional: Air Fryer Method
Brush assembled pies with oil and cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t be quite as crispy but use 75% less oil.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 Pie) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Sugar | 15g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to lighten things up without sacrificing that fried apple magic? Try these:
- Air Fry Instead: Cut calories and fat by 60–75%.
- Use Whole Wheat Crusts: Adds fiber and nutrients.
- Swap Sugar with Stevia or Monk Fruit: Reduces sugar load while keeping sweetness.
- Add Chia Seeds to Filling: Boosts omega-3s and fiber content.
- Bake Instead of Fry: Use a 375°F oven for 20–25 minutes until golden.
Serving Suggestions
Let these fried apple pies shine by serving them creatively:
- With Vanilla Ice Cream: The warm/cold combo is unbeatable.
- Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: Elevates the indulgence.
- Add a Touch of Cheese: Yes, really! A slice of sharp cheddar on the side is a Southern tradition.
- Serve with Coffee or Spiced Cider: Perfect for fall mornings or cozy gatherings.
- Mini Pie Platter: Pair with fried peach pies or turnovers for variety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced cooks can make these slip-ups. Here’s how to sidestep them:
- ❌ Overfilling Pies: Causes leaking and soggy crusts.
- ❌ Oil Too Cold: Absorbs oil, making pies greasy.
- ❌ Not Sealing Properly: Filling escapes during frying.
- ❌ Using Mushy Apples: Choose firm varieties to keep texture.
- ❌ Skipping the Cool Down: Filling needs to cool before assembling or it melts the crust.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Keep your fried apple pies fresh and flavorful with these storage methods:
- Room Temp: Store in airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate: Keeps up to 5 days. Reheat in oven at 350°F for 5–8 minutes.
- Freeze: Wrap each pie in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat straight from frozen at 375°F for 15 minutes.
Conclusion
Fried apple pies are the perfect blend of crisp crust, warm spiced filling, and nostalgic comfort. Whether you’re a baking beginner or pie pro, this recipe delivers golden, gooey perfection in under an hour. From air fryer hacks to healthier swaps, there’s a version for every kitchen and craving.
Now it’s your turn—whip up a batch, share your results in the comments, or subscribe for more easy and delicious recipes straight to your inbox. Let’s keep the tradition (and the oil) sizzling.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make fried apple pies ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze and fry later.
Q2: What are the best apples for fried pies?
Granny Smith for tartness and firmness, or Honeycrisp for sweetness and juiciness.
Q3: How do I keep the pies from bursting open in the oil?
Make sure to seal edges well with water or egg wash and press tightly with a fork.
Q4: Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes. Brush with milk or oil for a golden finish.
Q5: What oil is best for frying apple pies?
Use neutral oils with high smoke points like canola, peanut, or vegetable oil.
