Fried Apple Pies Recipe
Southern fried apple pies, also known as hand pies or Applejacks, are made the classic way using dried apples for the filling with a homemade flaky crust.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds dried apples
- 2 cups water
- 1 ⅓ cups granulated sugar or to taste
- 2 ½ teaspoons cinnamon or to taste
- 3 cups self-rising flour
- ½ cup shortening I like Crisco
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1-2 cups canola oil for frying
Instructions
- Rinse and drain dried apples. Add to a pot with water. Cook in a slow cooker on high until tender, about 2-3 hours. Mash with a potato masher, and add sugar and cinnamon to taste.
- For the dough, work shortening into self-rising flour until crumbly, then slowly add sweet milk. Work the flour in a little at a time until it’s a dough ball. Slightly knead, then place in the fridge, along with the filling, at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Working on a floured surface, roll the dough to an ⅛-inch thickness. Cut in 6-inch diameter circles. Spread 3 tablespoons of the filling on one side. Fold the dough over, then crimp and pierce with a fork.
- In a large skillet, fry the pies in canola oil on medium-high heat 1-2 minutes per side and on the flat edge or until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel lined pan, and cool slightly before eating.
Video
Notes
- Be sure to cook the pies in batches of 2 or 3 at a time. Don't overcrowd the skillet or the pies won't cook correctly. Watch carefully because they can burn quickly.
- Be sure the oil comes back up to temperature before adding another batch of pies. The right temperature of oil leads to the correct cooking of the pies.
- Don't overfill the pies and make sure they are properly crimped or the filling with leak out when frying.
- These pies are best when eaten within a couple of days of making. You can store the pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the pies, then thaw and reheat.
- Reheat the pies in the microwave for a few minutes. Alternatively you can preheat an air fryer or oven to 350ºF and reheat for 5 to 7 minutes until hot.
- If you are having trouble finding dried apples at the grocery store, order them from Apple Barn Cider Mill and General Store.
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