If you’re craving a comforting, nostalgic treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon-spiced fruit with a golden, crispy crust, then this Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. Whether you choose tender apples or juicy peaches, these hand-sized pies burst with a luscious filling wrapped in a perfectly fried dough that’s both flaky and satisfyingly crunchy. They’re easy to make, utterly delicious, and perfect for sharing with family or friends on any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, this Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, texture, and color that makes these pies irresistible.
- Fresh apples or peaches, 3 cups peeled and diced: The star of the dish, providing natural sweetness and juicy softness.
- Granulated sugar, 1/4 cup: Sweetens the fruit filling sharply and helps it caramelize slightly.
- Brown sugar, 1/4 cup: Adds rich molasses notes and deepens the flavor complexity.
- Cinnamon, 1 teaspoon: Offers warm, aromatic spice that complements the fruit beautifully.
- Nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon (optional): Provides a subtle hint of earthiness that elevates the filling.
- Lemon juice, 1 tablespoon: Brightens the fruit flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Butter, 1 tablespoon: Enriches the filling with a silky mouthfeel.
- Cornstarch, 2 tablespoons mixed with 2 tablespoons water: Thickens the filling so it holds perfectly inside the pies.
- All-purpose flour, 2 cups: The base for the dough that creates a tender yet sturdy crust.
- Baking powder, 1 teaspoon: Helps the dough rise slightly, giving it a light texture.
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Enhances all the flavors in the dough and filling.
- Cold unsalted butter, 1/4 cup cubed: Incorporated into the dough to create flakiness and richness.
- Buttermilk (or milk), 3/4 cup: Brings moisture to the dough and adds a tender crumb.
- Vegetable oil: For frying to a crispy, golden perfection.
- Powdered sugar (optional): A sweet finishing touch that adds a delicate look and extra sweetness.
How to Make Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Filling
Start by cooking your diced apples or peaches with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg if using, and lemon juice in a pan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the fruit softens and the sugars melt into a fragrant syrup. Adding a bit of butter enriches the filling, giving it a smooth texture and enhancing the fruit’s natural flavors. To ensure the filling isn’t runny, stir in the cornstarch-water mixture, letting it thicken nicely before removing from heat. Once thickened, transfer the filling to a bowl and let it cool completely—this will make handling the pies easier and prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt for the dough’s structure and flavor depth. Next, cut in the cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs; this step is crucial to creating that flaky texture in the crust. Slowly stir in buttermilk or milk, just enough to bring the dough together as a smooth, pliable ball. Avoid overworking it to keep the texture tender. Lightly flour your workspace and roll out the dough until it’s about 1/8 inch thick, then use a round cutter or glass to cut out even circles—these will define the pies’ classic shape.
Step 3: Fill and Seal the Pies
Place a generous spoonful of the cooled fruit filling in the center of each dough circle. Carefully fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, then press the edges together firmly to seal in the delicious filling. To make sure the pies won’t open while frying, pinch the edges or use the tines of a fork to crimp them. This step not only keeps all the goodness inside but also creates a charming rustic look. If you want vents to allow steam to escape, poke a few small holes on the dough surface gently with a knife or fork.
Step 4: Fry the Pies
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C)—the ideal frying temperature for achieving that golden, crispy crust without absorbing excess oil. Gently lower a few pies into the hot oil (don’t overcrowd the pan) and fry until they puff up and turn a beautiful golden brown, flipping once for even cooking. This quick frying process creates an irresistibly crunchy exterior that perfectly contrasts the tender filling inside. Once cooked, transfer the pies to paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch
After frying, dust the pies lightly with powdered sugar if you like, for that extra touch of sweetness and a pretty presentation. Serve warm to fully enjoy the melding of buttery crust and sweet, spiced fruit filling melting in your mouth. These pies are perfect little parcels of comfort that will vanish quickly from any plate.
How to Serve Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe
Garnishes
Lightly dusting your pies with powdered sugar is a simple yet elegant way to dress them up. You can also experiment with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream on the side for a luscious finish. For a seasonal twist, sprinkle some freshly chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the top to add crunch and a nutty aroma that complements the fruit beautifully.
Side Dishes
While these fried pies can easily stand on their own as a sweet snack, pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns them into an indulgent dessert. Alternatively, serve them alongside a cup of spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. If you’re offering them at a brunch or party, fresh fruit or a light salad with citrus dressing balances the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try placing individual Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe servings on colorful dessert plates adorned with cinnamon sticks or lemon zest for an inviting look. Wrapping them in parchment paper tied with twine adds a charming homemade touch, especially if you’re gifting them. For a more festive presentation, arrange the pies on a rustic wooden board alongside bowls of dipping sauces like honey, chocolate ganache, or spicy jam for guests to customize their own bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover pies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping them out of the fridge preserves the crust’s crispness while the filling remains flavorful. If you notice the crust softening, a quick reheat will bring back some of the original crunch.
Freezing
You can freeze the pies before frying by arranging them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer bag. This way, you can keep them for up to a month. When you want to enjoy them, fry directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they cook through completely.
Reheating
The best way to reheat leftover Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe is in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes. This method revives the crispy crust without drying out the fruit filling inside. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain that delightful fried texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fruit for this Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe?
Yes, frozen fruit works well as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking the filling to prevent soggy pies.
Is it necessary to fry the pies, or can I bake them?
While frying gives the pies their signature crispy exterior, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden if you prefer a lighter option, though the texture will differ slightly.
How do I prevent the pies from bursting open during frying?
Thoroughly sealing the edges by pinching or crimping with a fork is key. Also, avoid overfilling and ensure the oil is hot enough to quickly seal the dough.
Can I make these pies vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use a plant-based milk for the dough. Just make sure your sugars are vegan-friendly.
What’s the best oil for frying these pies?
Vegetable oil or any neutral oil with a high smoke point, like canola or peanut oil, is ideal for frying. They won’t overpower the delicate flavors and will fry evenly.
Final Thoughts
Making this Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe is like wrapping up comfort, warmth, and a bit of nostalgia all in one delicious package. Whether you share them with loved ones or savor them solo, these pies bring joy with every crispy bite and fruity mouthful. So grab your ingredients and dive into creating this timeless treat—once you taste them, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made them sooner!
Print
Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Fried Apple or Peach Pies are a delightful treat featuring a tender, flaky dough filled with a warm, spiced fruit filling of fresh apples or peaches. Crisply fried to golden perfection and lightly dusted with powdered sugar, they make a perfect dessert or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Filling
- 3 cups fresh apples or peaches, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup buttermilk (or milk)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a saucepan, combine the peeled and diced apples or peaches with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the fruit is softened, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in butter and then add the cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the mixture. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely.
- Make the dough: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually stir in buttermilk (or milk) until a smooth dough forms. Knead lightly on a floured surface, then roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
- Shape the pies: Use a round cutter or a glass about 4 inches in diameter to cut circles from the dough. Place a spoonful of the cooled fruit filling onto the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly to seal. Optionally crimp the edges with a fork to ensure sealing and create a decorative edge.
- Fry the pies: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the pies, a few at a time, until they are golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the pies to paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Once slightly cooled, dust the fried pies with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm. Enjoy your crispy, fruity fried pies!
Notes
- Ensure the fruit filling is fully cooled before filling the dough to prevent sogginess.
- Use a thermometer to maintain the correct frying temperature for even browning and less oil absorption.
- These pies can be reheated in a hot oven or air fryer for a crisp texture after storage.
- The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before rolling and cutting.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with plant-based milk mixed with lemon juice.
