If you’re dreaming of a cozy autumn treat in the palm of your hand, these Mini Apple Hand Pies truly deliver the magic. Imagine warm, gooey cinnamon apple filling embraced in a golden, flaky crust, with pretty lattice tops that make every pie look like a tiny work of art! They’re a joy to bake, even more fun to eat, and guaranteed to be a hit at gatherings, whether for a party platter, a thoughtful gift, or simply to enjoy as an anytime snack. You’ll adore how every bite offers nostalgic pie flavors in such a charming, handheld package.

Mini Apple Hand Pies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Mini Apple Hand Pies is their simplicity—just a handful of classic ingredients combine to create irresistible flavor and texture. Each element is like a secret ingredient: from tart apples to zingy lemon juice, every piece brings something important to the party!

Diced apples: Use crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith for perfect texture and flavor balance in every bite.
Coconut sugar or brown sugar: These natural sweeteners melt beautifully into the filling, adding depth and subtle caramel notes.
Maple syrup: A spoonful gives just the right touch of sticky sweetness and classic autumn aroma.
Ground cinnamon: This warm spice infuses the apples and instantly gives that classic apple pie feel.
Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch deepens the spice profile and brings cozy complexity.
Lemon juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the flavors and prevents the apples from browning.
Cornstarch: This thickens the filling so you get juicy apples without any soggy crust.
Water: Mixed with cornstarch, it helps create that luscious, gooey texture in the apple filling.
Store-bought or homemade pie crust: Both options work perfectly; go store-bought for ease, or homemade for that personal touch.
Plant-based milk or egg wash: Brushing the pies before baking adds a beautiful golden shine to the finished lattice crusts.

How to Make Mini Apple Hand Pies

Step 1: Cook the Apple Filling

In a cozy saucepan, combine your diced apples with coconut sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Let this mixture simmer over medium heat for 5–6 minutes. You’ll want to stir occasionally—the apples will soften a bit, soaking up those sweet, spicy flavors and releasing the most tempting aroma imaginable.

Step 2: Thicken the Filling

While the apples cook, whisk the cornstarch and water together in a small bowl until smooth. Pour this slurry into your apple mixture, stir well, and cook for another 1–2 minutes. The filling will thicken up quickly, turning glossy and spoonable—perfect for tucking inside each pie. Remove the pan from the heat and let the filling cool completely before moving on.

Step 3: Prep Your Workspace

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this keeps the Mini Apple Hand Pies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Grab your pie dough, rolling it out nice and evenly on a floured surface.

Step 4: Cut and Fill the Pies

Using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass (aiming for 3-inch rounds), cut out circles from your dough. Arrange half the rounds on your prepared baking sheet. Scoop about a tablespoon of the cooled apple filling onto the center of each circle, keeping the edges clear for sealing.

Step 5: Create the Lattice Tops

With the remaining dough, use a knife or pastry wheel to cut slim strips. Lay a few strips over each mound of filling in a lattice pattern: first in one direction, then the other, gently weaving as you go. Press the edges down with the tines of a fork to seal them, ensuring none of the lovely filling escapes during baking.

Step 6: Brush and Bake

Brush the tops of your hand pies with a bit of plant-based milk or egg wash. This step is pure magic for achieving a glossy, golden exterior. Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the pies for 18–22 minutes, until they’re beautifully golden and the filling is bubbling. Let the pies cool slightly—if you can wait!—then dig in.

How to Serve Mini Apple Hand Pies

Garnishes

Make each Mini Apple Hand Pie a showstopper by dusting the tops with powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream—a perfect finish for that homey pie appeal. You can also drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a bit of plant milk if you love a little extra sweetness.

Side Dishes

Pairing these pies with a steamy mug of cinnamon tea or strong coffee just feels right, especially on cool afternoons. For a dessert spread, include fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a scoop of dairy-free ice cream to add a creamy, cool contrast to the warm pies.

Creative Ways to Present

Present your Mini Apple Hand Pies on a rustic wooden platter for a party, or tuck them into parchment-lined bakery boxes for gifting. They pack beautifully in lunchboxes or picnic baskets, too! Trusted tip: little parchment envelopes tied with twine make each pie feel like a charming, homemade present.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Mini Apple Hand Pies in an airtight container once they’ve fully cooled. Stored at room temperature, they’ll keep for up to two days (though honestly, they rarely last that long!). For slightly longer storage, keep them in the fridge; the crust may lose a bit of its crispness, but the flavor stays wonderful.

Freezing

These pies freeze beautifully! Arrange cooled pies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When the craving strikes, you’re never far from a warm, homemade pie snack!

Reheating

To refresh that just-baked magic, reheat your Mini Apple Hand Pies in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes straight from the fridge or about 12–15 minutes from frozen. This helps the crust crisp up nicely while warming the filling through. Avoid the microwave—it’ll make the crust a little too soft.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits besides apples?

Absolutely! This recipe adapts well—try pears, peaches, or a mixed berry blend. Adjust sugar and spices to suit the fruit you’re using. Mini Apple Hand Pies are just the beginning of your fruit pie adventures!

What type of apples work best?

Firmer apples with some tartness, like Granny Smith, hold their shape and balance the pie’s flavors perfectly. You can mix in a sweeter apple (like Honeycrisp) for more depth and a hint of natural sweetness.

Can I make Mini Apple Hand Pies gluten-free?

Definitely—just use your favorite gluten-free pie crust. Many store-bought versions work well, or try a homemade crust with gluten-free flour for a delicious, allergen-friendly treat.

Do I have to make a lattice top?

Nope! If you’re short on time, simply place another dough circle over each filled base, seal the edges, and cut a little vent on top. The pies will bake up just as delicious without the lattice, but the classic look does win hearts.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

Let the filling cool completely before assembling the pies, and don’t overfill. Also, baking on parchment paper at the recommended temperature helps maintain a flaky, crisp crust on your Mini Apple Hand Pies.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a treat that combines comfort, nostalgia, and a sprinkle of fun, Mini Apple Hand Pies are a must-bake. There’s nothing like sharing these sweet little treasures with friends, family, or even just yourself. I can’t wait to hear how you love them—happy baking!