Description
These Fried Apple or Peach Pies are a delicious homemade treat featuring a sweet and spiced fruit filling encased in a tender, flaky dough. Perfectly fried to a golden brown, these pies are dusted with powdered sugar for an irresistible finish. Ideal for dessert or a special snack, they offer a delightful balance of warm fruit flavors and crispy, buttery crust.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling:
- 3 cups fresh apples or peaches, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup buttermilk (or milk)
For Frying and Serving:
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: Peel and dice the apples or peaches into small pieces. In a saucepan, combine the diced fruit with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and lemon juice.
- Cook the Filling: Cook the mixture over medium heat until the fruit softens and the sugars dissolve, stirring frequently. Add the butter and stir until melted.
- Thicken the Filling: Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then add it to the fruit mixture. Continue cooking and stirring until the filling thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
- Make the Dough: In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Buttermilk and Knead: Gradually add the buttermilk (or milk) and mix until a smooth dough forms. Knead lightly on a floured surface if necessary.
- Roll Out Dough and Cut Circles: Roll the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness and use a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out dough circles.
- Assemble the Pies: Place a spoonful of cooled filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and crimp the edges to seal tightly.
- Heat Oil for Frying: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or pot to a depth of about 2 inches and heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Pies: Carefully place pies in the hot oil, frying a few at a time to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crisp, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Drain and Serve: Remove pies with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Once slightly cooled, dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust the type of fruit depending on season and preference: apples provide a crisper texture while peaches offer a juicier filling.
- Ensure the filling is completely cooled before assembling to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
- Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature for even frying and to avoid greasy pies.
- These pies can be reheated in a warm oven to retain crispiness if made ahead.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil and use plant-based milk instead of buttermilk.
