Irresistible Mini Apple Hand Pies for Cozy Homemade Treats

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

As the crisp autumn air begins to swirl around, my kitchen transforms into a haven of warm, cozy aromas. The scent of apples and cinnamon lingers in the air, reminding me of my childhood, when my grandmother would whip up her legendary desserts. One day, while reminiscing about those sweet moments, I decided to create something that brings that magic back Mini Apple Hand Pies. These delightful treats are not only easy to make but are also bursting with fresh flavors that evoke that wonderful feeling of home.

When I first made these pockets of joy, I was amazed at how quickly they came together, thanks to a little help from store-bought pie dough. Imagine biting into a golden crust, giving way to tender apples, a hint of sweet brown sugar, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Whether it s a snack for your family or a showstopper dessert for an intimate gathering, these hand pies are bound to be a hit. So roll up your sleeves, and let s embrace the joy of homemade goodness with these Mini Apple Hand Pies!

Why are Mini Apple Hand Pies the best choice?

Comforting, there s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a warm, flaky crust filled with spiced apples.
Quick to prepare, these hand pies come together in just about 52 minutes, making them perfect for busy days.
Versatile, you can enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat guaranteed to please every palate!
Impressive presentation with that golden color and glossy finish promises to wow family and friends alike.
Whether it s a cozy evening at home or a festive gathering, these pie bites bring warmth and nostalgia to the table.

Mini Apple Hand Pies Ingredients

Get ready for delightful flavors!

For the Dough
1 box store bought pie dough Using pre-made dough saves time and simplifies the process!

For the Apple Filling
2 1/2 cups finely chopped fuji or honeycrisp apples These sweet apples provide a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
2 tbsp unsalted butter Adds richness to the filling and enhances the overall taste.
1/4 cup light brown sugar The packed sugar melts beautifully, creating a delicious caramel-like flavor.
1 tsp ground cinnamon This warm spice is essential for that cozy, comforting taste.
Juice of 1/2 lemon A splash brightens the flavors and prevents the apples from browning.
1/2 tsp cornstarch Thicken the filling and help it hold together beautifully.
1 tbsp water Used to mix with cornstarch for a smooth consistency.

For the Egg Wash
1 large egg This gives the pies a lovely golden finish once baked.
2 tsp water Mixing with the egg helps to create a smooth glaze on the pastry.

For the Topping
1/2 cup granulated sugar Sprinkling this on top provides a delightful crunch.
1 tsp ground cinnamon Enhances the sweet topping and creates an inviting aroma while baking.

These Mini Apple Hand Pies are sure to be a comforting treat that your loved ones will savor!

How to Make Mini Apple Hand Pies

1. Prepare the dough. Remove the pie dough from the refrigerator to let it come to room temperature, which makes it easier to handle while you re preparing the apple filling.
2. Melt the butter. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it s bubbling but not browned. This creates a rich base for your apple filling.
3. Cook the apples. Mix in the finely chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook for about 10 minutes until the apples are tender and juicy, releasing their wonderful sweetness.
4. Thicken the filling. Combine the cornstarch and water in a small dish, then pour this mixture into your pot with the apples. Stir for about 30 seconds until it thickens, then remove from the heat and let it cool.
5. Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 400 °F and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
6. Roll out the dough. Lightly dust a flat surface with flour, then unroll one pie sheet. Use a rolling pin to smooth out any wrinkles, making it nice and even.
7. Cut the apple shapes. Use an apple-shaped cookie cutter or a homemade template to cut out apple shapes from the dough. Aim for about 8 per sheet and refrigerate any scraps for re-rolling later.
8. Fill the pies. Arrange half of the apple shapes on the baking sheet with space between them. Add a tablespoon of the cooled apple filling to the center of each shape, leaving a small border around the edges.
9. Apply the egg wash. Beat the egg with approximately 2 teaspoons of water. Brush the egg wash around the edges of each filled apple shape, which helps bind them together.
10. Vent the tops. For the remaining apple shapes, cut 4 slits in the center of each to let steam escape during baking. This ensures your pies bake perfectly without bursting.
11. Seal and crimp. Place the vented apple tops over the filled ones. Gently press down to seal, then use a fork to crimp the edges for a charming touch. Brush the surface of each with the egg wash.
12. Sprinkle the topping. Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small dish, then sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of this sweet mix on top of each pie for an extra delightful crunch.
13. Bake to perfection. Bake the mini apple hand pies for 12-14 minutes. Once golden brown, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Mini Apple Hand Pies

• Choose the Right Apples: Fuji or Honeycrisp apples are ideal; their natural sweetness and crisp texture prevent the filling from becoming too mushy.
• Avoid Soggy Bottoms: Make sure to let the apple filling cool before assembling the pies; a warm filling can make the dough soggy during baking.
• Seal the Edges Well: Crimp the edges thoroughly with a fork to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking nobody likes a messy hand pie!
• Perfect Egg Wash: For a beautiful finish, brush the tops with the egg wash but avoid getting it on the bottom edges, which could create a sticky mess.
• Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens vary, so check your pies a minute or two before the recommended time to prevent over-baking and ensure golden perfection.

These Mini Apple Hand Pies are sure to impress with their delightful flavors and warm aesthetics!

What to Serve with Mini Apple Hand Pies?

Imagine a cozy gathering, bites of bliss shared over warm flavors that linger in the air and tug at the heartstrings.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool sweetness melts deliciously against the warm hand pies, making each bite an unforgettable pleasure.
• Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it adds a fluffy texture that perfectly complements the spiced apple filling, enhancing the overall indulgence. A dollop atop each pie transforms the treat into a showstopper.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling this luscious sauce over your mini pies creates an extra layer of sweetness, contrasting beautifully with the cinnamon and tart apples. It s a flavor combination that tastes like home!
• Fresh Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette counterbalances the richness of the pies, adding a refreshing element to your meal.
• Apple Cider: Sipping warm apple cider while enjoying these hand pies brings a comforting autumn vibe, enveloping you in seasonal nostalgia.
• Cheese Platter: Pairing these treats with a cheese board featuring sharp cheddar or creamy brie creates an interesting flavor profile, making for a delightful appetizer spread.
• Hot Tea: A cup of spiced chai or chamomile tea brings warmth and a soothing finish to your dessert experience, transforming a simple bite into a cherished moment.
• Chocolate Drizzle: For the chocolate lovers, a drizzle of melted chocolate on top adds a decadent touch that pleases the palate and appeals to the eyes.

These delightful pairings elevate your Mini Apple Hand Pies into a complete and wonderful feast, creating memories to savor!

Mini Apple Hand Pies Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these Mini Apple Hand Pies your own with these delightful twists!

• Gluten-Free: Substitute store-bought gluten-free pie dough for the regular version to enjoy a gluten-free delight without compromising flavor.
• Nutty Surprise: Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for an irresistible crunch and nutty flavor.
• Dairy-Free: Replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, ensuring the filling remains luscious and dairy-free.
• Spiced Up: Incorporate 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon for an exciting twist that enhances the flavor profile.
• Fruity Fusion: Mix in 1/2 cup of finely chopped cranberries or raisins with the apples for a delightful contrast of sweetness and tartness.
• Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle a homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the baked pie for an indulgent touch that will make everyone swoon!
• Maple Sweetness: Swap out the brown sugar for maple syrup in the apple filling for a unique and delightful sweetness just reduce the amount of lemon juice slightly.
• Savory Option: Try adding crumbled cheese like goat cheese or cheddar to the filling for a savory hand pie that will surprise your taste buds!

Feel free to experiment with these variations, and make your mini hand pies a true reflection of your unique taste and style!

How to Store and Freeze Mini Apple Hand Pies

Room Temperature: Store your baked mini apple hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their flaky texture.

Fridge: For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for up to 4 days. Reheat in a toaster oven for that fresh-baked taste.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked mini apple hand pies on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: To reheat baked pies, place them in a preheated oven at 350 °F for about 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through to preserve their delightful crispiness.

Make Ahead Options

These Mini Apple Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the apple filling up to 3 days in advance by simply cooking the apples and allowing them to cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container. To simplify your baking day, you can also cut out the apple shapes from the pie dough and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When you re ready to bake, just fill the chilled cutouts with the apple filling, brush with egg wash, and follow the original baking instructions. This approach not only saves time but also ensures your hand pies are just as delicious as if made fresh, with all the comforting flavors ready to shine!

Mini Apple Hand Pies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right apples for the filling?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using Fuji or Honeycrisp apples. These varieties are sweet and slightly tart, which complements the spices perfectly. Avoid overly soft apples, as they can turn mushy in the filling.

How should I store leftover mini apple hand pies?
For optimal freshness, store your baked mini apple hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, transfer them to the refrigerator where they can last for up to 4 days. Simply reheat in a toaster oven to enjoy that fresh-baked taste again!

Can I freeze unbaked mini apple hand pies?
Very! To freeze, arrange the unbaked hand pies on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag, sealing tightly. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you re ready to bake, there s no need to thaw; just add an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time!

What should I do if my filling leaks out during baking?
To prevent leakage, ensure that you crimp the edges of the pies well and seal them tightly. Another tip is to let the apple filling cool completely before adding it to the pies, as a warm filling can create steam that leads to leaks.

Are mini apple hand pies safe for pets or allergies?
While delicious for humans, be cautious with sweets around pets especially those containing sugar and cinnamon. If you have allergies, check the ingredients used in the dough carefully, and consider making your own crust if necessary. Always consult with a doctor about food allergies for unique dietary needs.

How long do mini apple hand pies last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, baked mini apple hand pies can last in the fridge for up to 4 days. It s an easy way to keep them tasty and ready for those afternoon cravings or as a delightful dessert after dinner. Enjoy them warm for that extra coziness!