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Apple desserts have long captivated taste buds, becoming a staple in homes and bakeries alike. From classic apple pies to tart apple crumbles, these sweet delights evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort. Among these, hand pies are perhaps the most charming. They offer all the flavors of traditional apple pie in a convenient, portable format, making them perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy family gathering or a delightful picnic in the park.

Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies

Discover the joy of making Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies Delight, a perfect blend of tradition and modern convenience. These charming hand pies capture the classic flavors of apple pie while offering a quick, healthier preparation method. With flaky crusts and a sweet apple filling, they're great for family gatherings or picnics. Whether you're a novice cook or an experienced baker, this easy recipe ensures delicious results every time. Enjoy a taste of nostalgia with less oil and guilt!

Ingredients
  

2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced into small pieces

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

1 package (1 lb) refrigerated pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)

1 egg (for egg wash)

1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)

Optional: powdered sugar for a sweet dusting

Instructions
 

Prepare the Filling:

    In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, lemon juice, and melted butter. Stir until the apples are evenly coated with the mixture. Let the filling sit for about 10 minutes to enhance the flavors and soften the apples slightly.

      Shape the Hand Pies:

        On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pie crust until it is slightly thin. Use a round cutter or a small bowl (approximately 5-6 inches in diameter) to cut out circles from the pie crust. Collect any scraps, re-roll them, and cut out more circles as needed.

          Fill the Pies:

            Spoon approximately 1-2 tablespoons of the apple filling into the center of each pie crust circle. Avoid overfilling to prevent bursting during cooking—less is more!

              Seal the Hand Pies:

                Carefully fold the crust over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly with your fingertips to seal them. For an added decorative touch and extra sealing, use a fork to crimp along the edges.

                  Prepare the Egg Wash:

                    In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until well combined. This mixture will create a beautiful golden finish on your hand pies. Brush the egg wash over the tops of each pie to ensure they bake evenly.

                      Preheat the Air Fryer:

                        Set your air fryer to preheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, ensuring it reaches the optimal cooking temperature.

                          Air Fry the Hand Pies:

                            Carefully place the hand pies in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch to allow proper air circulation. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to fry them in batches. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the hand pies are golden brown and crispy.

                              Cool and Serve:

                                Once cooked, gingerly remove the hand pies from the air fryer and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. If desired, dust them with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch. Enjoy these delightful treats while they are still warm or at room temperature for a delicious treat!

                                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 30 minutes | Makes about 8 hand pies