Fall is finally here, and what better way to celebrate the season than with some delicious homemade hand pies? These portable treats are the perfect combination of buttery, flaky pastry and deeply spiced apple filling. With a little bit of practice and some helpful tips, you can easily maximize your ratio of pastry to filling and create the perfect fall dessert.
First things first, let’s talk about the pastry. The key to achieving a flaky and buttery crust is to use cold ingredients and handle the dough as little as possible. This means using cold butter and ice water when making the dough, and avoiding overworking the dough when rolling it out.
Start by cutting cold butter into small cubes and placing them in the freezer for a few minutes while you gather the rest of your ingredients. Using cold butter is crucial because when it melts in the oven, it creates steam pockets that give the pastry its flaky texture. Once your butter is chilled, mix it with flour, salt, and a little bit of sugar in a food processor or by hand until it resembles coarse crumbs. Then, slowly drizzle in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Be careful not to add too much water, as this can make the dough too wet and tough.
Next, shape the dough into a disc and wrap it in plastic wrap. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. Chilling the dough allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out and preventing it from shrinking in the oven. When rolling out the dough, make sure to work quickly and use a light touch. Overworking the dough can result in a tough and dense crust.
Now, let’s move on to the filling. The star of these hand pies is, of course, the deeply apple-y spiced filling. To achieve this, it’s important to use the right kind of apples and to add the right amount of spices. Granny Smith apples are a popular choice for baking because they hold their shape well and have a tart flavor that balances out the sweetness of the filling. However, feel free to use any apples that you prefer.
When it comes to spices, the classic combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves is a must for that cozy fall flavor. You can also add a pinch of ginger for some extra warmth. Make sure to taste the filling as you go and adjust the spices to your liking.
To assemble the hand pies, roll out the chilled dough into a thin sheet and cut out circles using a cookie cutter or a glass. Place a spoonful of the apple filling onto one half of the circle, leaving a small border around the edge. Brush the edges with egg wash and fold the other half of the dough over the filling, pressing the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges and create a decorative pattern. Cut a few slits on the top of the hand pies to allow steam to escape while baking.
Before baking, make sure to chill the hand pies in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This step is crucial because it helps the pastry hold its shape and prevents it from becoming soggy. While the hand pies are chilling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once chilled, brush the tops with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar for some extra crunch and sweetness.
Bake the hand pies for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy the perfect balance of buttery, flaky pastry and deeply apple-y spiced filling.
These hand pies are not only delicious, but they are also incredibly portable, making them the ideal dessert for fall gatherings or on-the-go snacking. They can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days, or even frozen for longer storage. Just pop them in the oven for a few minutes to reheat and enjoy a warm and comforting treat anytime.
In conclusion, with a few simple tips and tricks, you can easily maximize your ratio of buttery, flaky pastry to deeply apple-y spiced filling in these homemade hand pies. So, go ahead and embrace the flavors of fall with this delicious and portable dessert. Happy baking!
