Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe is a delightful treat that brings together the crispiness of fried dough and the sweetness of fruit filling. You will absolutely love making these scrumptious pies. Perfect for dessert or as a snack, they’re bound to become a family favorite.
What Are Fried Apple or Peach Pies?
Fried apple or peach pies are small, handheld pastries filled with sweet fruit. Usually made with a flaky dough, these pies are filled with either spiced apples or ripe peaches. Then, they’re fried to crispy perfection, creating an irresistible treat you can’t resist!
Ingredients for Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe
Here’s a handy list of what you’ll need:
- Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 1/4 cup ice water (more if needed)
- Filling Ingredients
- 3 cups diced apples or peaches (fresh or canned)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for apples)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (keeps fruit fresh)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- For Frying
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
How to Make Fried Apple or Peach Pies
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar. Quickly cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water gradually until the dough comes together. Knead it gently, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: While the dough chills, mix your diced apples or peaches with sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon in a bowl. If you want a thicker filling, add cornstarch.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles about 4 inches wide.
- Fill and Seal: Place a tablespoon of filling on one half of each dough circle. Fold the other half over and press to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges and ensure they’re well sealed.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or a frying pan, heat about an inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough in; it should sizzle when ready.
- Fry the Pies: Carefully add the pies to the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Remove and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let the pies cool for a few minutes before biting into them. They’re best served warm, but you can enjoy them at room temperature too!
Tips for the Best Fried Apple or Peach Pies
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip refrigerating the dough. This helps it stay flaky and easy to work with.
- Taste the Filling: Before you fill the pies, taste the fruit mixture. Adjust the sugar and spices to your liking.
- Keep the Oil Temperature Steady: If the oil is too hot, the pies will burn. If too cool, they’ll absorb oil and become greasy.
How to Serve Fried Apple or Peach Pies
These tasty pies can be enjoyed in several ways:
- As is: Wonderful on their own, dusted with powdered sugar.
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- With Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Storage Tips for Fried Apple or Peach Pies
- At Room Temperature: Keep them in an airtight container for up to two days.
- Refrigerator: They can last up to a week in the fridge.
- Freezer: You can freeze un-fried, filled pies for later. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap and foil.
Variations of Fried Apple or Peach Pies
- Berry Pies: Use a mixture of berries like blueberries and strawberries.
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts to the fruit filling for crunch.
- Dessert Sauce: Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce for extra flavor.
Can I Bake These Pies Instead?
Absolutely! For a healthier alternative, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the filled pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush with an egg wash, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Nutritional Benefits of Fried Pies
While these pies are a treat, they provide a dose of fruit in every bite. Apples and peaches are rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a delicious dessert option. Just keep in mind they are a bit indulgent due to the frying!
Making Fried Apple or Peach Pies is not just about the delicious result but also enjoying the process in your kitchen. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delightful snack that brings joy to any occasion. Whether you choose apples or peaches, these pies are sure to be a hit!