Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this old-fashioned fried apple pie recipe! This isn't your grandma's apple pie – it's a fun, exciting twist on a classic, perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. Get ready to experience the crispy, golden-brown crust encasing sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples – a truly irresistible combination! This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or simply a delicious and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
- For the Filling:
- 4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Dough:
- 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, for dusting
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a medium bowl, gently combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss to coat the apples evenly.
Step 2: Assemble the Pies:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one pie crust slightly. Cut the dough into 4-inch squares. Place about 2 tablespoons of the apple filling in the center of each square.
Step 3: Fold and Seal:
Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle, pressing the edges firmly to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch and to ensure a tight seal. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
Step 4: Fry the Apple Pies:
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (a small piece of dough should sizzle immediately), carefully place 2-3 apple pies in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd it.
Step 5: Cook to Golden Brown:
Fry the apple pies for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to gently flip them.
Step 6: Drain and Serve:
Remove the fried apple pies from the skillet and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired, and serve warm. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is the perfect complement to this delicious homemade treat!
Cooking Tips for the Best Fried Apple Pies:
- Don't overcrowd the skillet: This will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy pies. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Use a thermometer: For consistent results, use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C).
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter pie, increase the sugar in the filling.
- Add spices: Experiment with other spices, such as cardamom or allspice, for a unique flavor.
Variations:
- Caramel Apple Fried Pies: Drizzle caramel sauce over the fried pies after they've cooled slightly.
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Toss the fried pies in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 12-15g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Protein: 3-4g
This old-fashioned fried apple pie recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic dessert with a fun, crispy twist. It's easy enough for beginner cooks, yet impressive enough for any gathering. Give it a try and experience the joy of homemade cooking! Enjoy!