Nothing beats the taste of a homemade Fried Apple or Peach Pie! These delectable treats remind us of simpler times when pies were a staple at family gatherings and fairs. Packed with sweet, juicy fruit and encased in a perfectly flaky crust, fried pies offer an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. The best part? You can make them with either apples or peaches, switching up the filling to suit your cravings! Whether for a quick dessert, a cozy afternoon snack, or a fun party treat, these fried pies are always a hit. Let’s explore how to make these mouthwatering delights!
Ingredients List
To make your own delicious Fried Apple or Peach Pies, gather the following ingredients:
- For the Pie Filling:
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples (or sliced peaches)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or a sugar substitute)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for flavor)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning and add brightness)
- For the Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup vegetable shortening (optional, for flakiness)
- 6 tablespoons cold water (more or less as needed)
- For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Timing
This Fried Apple or Peach Pies recipe is simple and does not take much time. Here’s the timing breakdown:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes, bringing warm, delicious pies to your table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced apples (or slices of peaches), granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss the ingredients together until the fruit is evenly coated. This sweet and tangy filling will be the heart of your fried pie.
Step 2: Make the Pie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cubed butter (and shortening, if using) to the flour mixture, and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should be well incorporated but still cold—this is essential for flaky crust.
Gradually add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Ensure not to overmix; you want the dough to be tender and slightly moist. Once combined, shape it into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to relax the gluten.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Using a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter), cut out circles of dough. Gather any scraps and re-roll them to make more rounds.
Step 4: Fill the Pastries
Place approximately 1-2 tablespoons of the fruit filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing difficult. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges to seal and crimp with a fork for additional security.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or pot, add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom. Heat the oil over medium-high heat. You can test the oil’s readiness by dropping a small piece of dough into the hot oil; if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry!
Step 6: Fry the Pies
Once the oil is hot, carefully place a few of the filled pies into the oil at a time, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to flip them and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step 7: Dust and Serve
Once the pies are done frying, dust them with powdered sugar while they’re still warm if desired. Serve your Fried Apple or Peach Pies warm, and watch everyone enjoy the gooey fruit filling and crispy crust!
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional information per pie (based on a yield of 8 pies):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you’re looking to enhance the health profile of these pies while keeping the flavor, consider the following alternatives:
- Use whole wheat flour or almond flour for a healthier crust option.
- Consider using a sugar substitute for the filling to reduce overall sugar content.
- Add chia seeds or flaxseeds to the filling for added fiber and nutritional benefits.
Serving Suggestions
Your Fried Apple or Peach Pies can be served in various delicious ways:
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful dessert.
- With Coffee: Pair them with your morning or afternoon coffee for a sweet pick-me-up.
- At Gatherings: These pies make perfect bite-sized snacks for parties and family gatherings!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying; if it’s not, the pies will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Don’t overfill the pastries; doing so can cause them to break open while frying.
- Take care not to roll the dough too thin; it should be thick enough to hold the filling without tearing.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you have any leftovers (which may be unlikely!), store your Fried Apple or Peach Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze them, wrapping each pie individually and storing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before enjoying!
Conclusion
This Fried Apple or Peach Pies recipe brings the delightful flavors of homemade treats to your kitchen without the fuss. Crisp on the outside, gooey and flavor-packed on the inside, these pastries will satisfy any sweet craving. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your results in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes and cooking tips!
FAQs
Can I use frozen fruit for the filling?
Yes! Frozen cherries or peaches work wonderfully. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make these pies in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling in advance. Assemble the pies right before frying for maximum freshness.
Are these pies suitable for freezing?
Yes! These fried pies freeze well. Make sure to let them cool completely before wrapping and freezing for the best results.