Fried Apple Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
2. Cut in Butter: Add the chilled butter cubes to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Add this mixture to the flour mixture and stir until the dough just comes together.
4. Chill Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, knead it briefly, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Cook Apples: In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the apples are tender and the filling is thickened (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Pies

1. Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles of dough using a round cutter or a glass (about 4-5 inches in diameter).
2. Fill Dough: Place a small spoonful of the apple filling in the center of half of the dough circles, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Seal Pies: Place another dough circle on top of each filled circle. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp with a fork to ensure they are well sealed.

Step 4: Fry the Pies

1. Heat Oil: In a deep skillet or saucepan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy thermometer to check the temperature.
2. Fry Pies: Carefully place a few pies into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pies from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Add Cinnamon Sugar Coating (Optional)

1. Mix Coating: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
2. Coat Pies: While the pies are still warm, sprinkle them with the cinnamon sugar mixture for extra flavor.

Step 6: Serve

1. Enjoy: Serve the fried apple pies warm or at room temperature. They’re delicious on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Tips and Variations

• Apple Varieties: Use your favorite type of apple for the filling. Tart apples like Granny Smith add a nice balance to the sweetness.
• Dough Variations: If you prefer, you can use pre-made pie dough for convenience.
• Baking Option: For a lighter version, bake the pies at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown, instead of frying.

Conclusion

Fried apple pies are a classic dessert that combines the crispy texture of fried dough with a sweet and spiced apple filling. Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood treats or discovering this recipe for the first time, these pies are sure to delight. Enjoy them fresh from the fryer, with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, or as a comforting dessert with your favorite toppings.