Fried pies are a delightful treat that brings together a crispy, flaky crust and a sweet, fruity filling. Perfect for any occasion, these pies can be served as a dessert or a snack. With their golden brown exterior and warm interior, fried pies are sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you choose apples, peaches, or cherries as your filling, these treats will satisfy your cravings with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these fried pies in no time.
• Versatile Filling Options: Choose from a variety of fruits to create your own unique flavor combinations.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, fried pies are ideal for sharing.
• Crispy and Delicious: The flaky crust paired with the warm fruit filling creates an irresistible texture contrast.
• Fun to Customize: Add spices or different types of sugar to enhance your filling and create signature flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To make the perfect fried pies, having the right tools on hand is essential. Gather these items before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter (or fingers)
• Rolling pin
• Frying pan or deep skillet
• Tongs
• Round cutter or glass

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of dough ingredients without spilling.
• Pastry cutter: This tool helps achieve the right crumb texture by blending butter into the flour efficiently.
• Frying pan: A deep skillet ensures safe frying while accommodating multiple pies at once.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
• ½ cup cold water (or more as needed)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

For the Fruit Filling

• 2 cups fresh or canned fruit (such as apples, peaches, or cherries), chopped
• ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste depending on fruit sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added tartness)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for spiced fillings)

For Frying

• Vegetable oil or sunflower oil for frying
• Powdered sugar for dusting

How to Make Fried Pies

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. If using vanilla extract, add it here. Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together. You may need slightly more or less water depending on humidity and flour type.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently for a few minutes until smooth. Do not overwork the dough to keep it tender.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help it firm up and make it easier to roll out.

Step 4: Prepare the Fruit Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine your choice of fruit with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice (optional), and cinnamon (if using). Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens and the fruit becomes soft, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

After chilling the dough, remove it from the fridge. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ⅛-inch thickness.

Step 6: Cut the Dough

Using a round cutter or glass, cut the dough into circles about 4-5 inches in diameter.

Step 7: Fill the Pies

Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of cooled fruit filling into the center of each dough circle.

Step 8: Seal the Pies

Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges of the dough together tightly; then use a fork to crimp edges for decoration and ensure they are sealed properly.

Step 9: Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To test if oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into it; if it bubbles and floats to surface, oil is hot enough.

Step 10: Fry the Pies

Carefully place prepared pies into hot oil in batches; avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip them carefully for even frying.

Step 11: Drain the Pies

Once fried, remove pies from oil and place them on paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 12: Serve

Allow fried pies to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

How to Serve Fried Pies

Fried pies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your fried pie experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Serve warm fried pies alongside a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy contrast that complements the fruit filling.

A La Mode

• Top each fried pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm, crispy pastry.

Dusted with Cinnamon Sugar

• Sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar on top of the fried pies after frying for an extra layer of flavor and sweetness.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Add fresh berries or sliced fruits as a garnish. This adds freshness and makes for an appealing presentation.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Drizzle chocolate sauce over the pies for a decadent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.

Served with Coffee or Tea

• Pair your fried pies with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage enhances the flavors of the pies.

How to Perfect Fried Pies

Creating perfectly fried pies is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your fried pies turn out delicious every time.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill helps create a flaky texture, making it easier to roll out and shape without sticking.
• Use Cold Ingredients: Incorporating cold butter and water in your dough will contribute to a flakier result when fried.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C). This prevents greasy pies and ensures even cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many pies at once can lower oil temperature, resulting in soggy crusts. Fry in small batches for best results.
• Seal Edges Well: Ensure that the edges of the fried pies are crimped tightly. This prevents filling from leaking during frying.
• Let Them Cool: Allow fried pies to cool slightly on paper towels before serving. This helps remove excess oil and keeps them crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Fried Pies

Fried pies can be complemented by various side dishes that balance their sweetness. Consider these options when planning your meal:

1. Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of fried pies.
2. Coleslaw: The crunchy texture of coleslaw adds an enjoyable element alongside sweet desserts, balancing flavors nicely.
3. Fruit Salad: A bowl of fresh fruit salad enhances the fruity filling in your fried pies while adding vibrant colors to your plate.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a creamy side that pairs well with the crispy texture of fried pies.
5. Savory Dip: Serve with a tangy dipping sauce made from yogurt and herbs for an unexpected savory twist alongside sweet treats.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can offer diverse flavors, creating an interesting contrast with sweet fillings in your fried pies.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide another layer of sweetness while offering a crunchy companion to your dessert course.
8. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred vegetables add depth and earthiness, balancing out the sweetness from the fried pies effectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making fried pies can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure they turn out perfectly.

• Using Warm Butter: Warm butter can lead to a tough dough. Always use chilled butter for a flaky texture.
• Overfilling the Pies: Adding too much filling can cause leaks during frying. Stick to 1-2 tablespoons of filling per pie to prevent mess.
• Not Sealing Properly: Failing to seal the edges tightly may result in open pies while frying. Use a fork to crimp the edges securely.
• Skipping the Chill Time: Chilling the dough is crucial for ease of handling and achieving the right texture. Don’t skip this step; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
• Frying at Incorrect Temperature: Frying at temperatures lower than recommended can make pies greasy. Ensure your oil is hot enough, around 350°F (175°C).
• Not Draining Excess Oil: Leaving fried pies on paper towels too long can make them soggy. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store fried pies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Fried Pies

• Allow pies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag, separated by parchment paper, for up to 3 months.

Reheating Fried Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
• Microwave: Heat on medium for about 30 seconds; this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet on medium heat for a few minutes per side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making fried pies that you might find helpful.

What fruits work best for Fried Pies?

Fruits like apples, peaches, and cherries are excellent choices for fillings due to their sweetness and texture when cooked.

Can I make Fried Pies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them ahead and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat before serving.

How do I prevent my Fried Pies from leaking?

Ensure you seal the edges well with a fork and don’t overfill them with fruit filling.

How long does it take to fry Fried Pies?

Each pie typically takes about 2-3 minutes per side to fry until golden brown and crispy.

Are Fried Pies suitable for customization?

Absolutely! You can adjust the filling based on your favorite fruits or even add spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Fried pies are a delightful treat that combines crisp pastry with delicious fruit fillings. They offer versatility, allowing you to customize flavors according to your preference. Whether you’re serving them as dessert or a special snack, these fried pies are sure to impress!

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Fried Pies

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• Author: Madison
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Fried pies are a delightful indulgence that combines a flaky, crispy crust with a luscious fruit filling. Perfect for any occasion, these hand-held treats can be enjoyed as a dessert or a snack. With their golden brown exterior and warm, fruity center, fried pies are sure to become a favorite among family and friends. You can customize your filling with fresh or canned fruits like apples, peaches, or cherries, making each batch unique and suited to your taste preferences. This easy recipe offers a fun cooking experience and delicious results that will impress everyone at your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
• ½ cup cold water (or more as needed)
• 2 cups fresh or canned fruit (such as apples, peaches, or cherries), chopped
• ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste depending on fruit sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added tartness)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for spiced fillings)
• Vegetable oil or sunflower oil for frying
• Powdered sugar for dusting

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Cut in chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add cold water until dough forms. Knead gently then chill for at least 30 minutes.
3. Prepare the fruit filling by cooking fruit with sugar and cornstarch until thickened.
4. Roll out the dough to ⅛-inch thickness and cut into circles.
5. Fill each circle with fruit filling, seal edges tightly, then fry in hot oil until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Don’t overcrowd the frying pan to maintain oil temperature. Experiment with different spices like cinnamon for added flavor.