There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of baked apples mingling with sweet caramel. One chilly afternoon, I found myself craving a treat that combines nostalgia with simplicity—something that reminds me of cozy evenings spent with family. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of apple and caramel hand pies.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, these delightful little pockets of flavor are a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their dessert game. The sweet, gooey filling nestled in crisp gow gee wrappers creates a treat that’s both unique and satisfyingly scrumptious. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself after a long day, these hand pies are sure to impress.
In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these golden beauties, and trust me, the smiles they bring are well worth the effort. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will transform your snacking experience!
Why choose apple and caramel hand pies?
Delectable surprises in every bite: These hand pies offer a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors that dance on your palate.
Quick and easy: You can whip up these delightful treats in just 15 minutes, making them an ideal dessert solution for any occasion.
Versatile indulgence: Whether as a family dessert or a cozy personal treat, they’re perfect for any time of the year.
Crowd-pleasing delight: Guests at your gathering will be clamoring for seconds, the irresistible aroma alone will have everyone excited.
Simple ingredients: With just a few pantry staples needed, you won’t have to make a special trip to the store to enjoy this sweet craving-satisfier.
Get ready to impress with these delicious hand pies that are both fun to make and even more fun to eat!
Apple and Caramel Hand Pies Ingredients
• Get ready to create a comforting dessert that everyone will love!
For the Filling
- Grated apple – Adds moisture and natural sweetness; choose your favorite variety for a unique twist.
- Thick caramel or dulce de leche – This will bring a luxurious richness to each bite; feel free to make your own if you’re up for it!
For the Wrapper
- Gow gee wrappers – These delightful wrappers provide the perfect light and crispy shell; they can also be replaced with other pastry options if desired.
- Water – Essential for sealing the wrappers so your filling stays tucked inside during baking.
For the Coating
- Ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, fragrant spice that complements the apple beautifully.
- Granulated sugar – Sprinkling on top gives a lovely sweetness and slight crunch; consider using brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Unsalted butter – Brushing on the melted butter before tossing in the cinnamon sugar helps everything glisten and taste divine!
With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to creating the most delightful apple and caramel hand pies!
How to Make Apple and Caramel Hand Pies
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Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a large baking tray with non-stick baking paper to ensure easy cleanup and perfectly baked pies.
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Drain the grated apples by placing them in a clean tea towel and squeezing out any excess juice. This step is crucial to avoid soggy pastries, ensuring a perfect hand pie texture.
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Mix the drained apple with the caramel in a medium bowl. Stir until well combined, creating a sweet filling that bursts with flavor in every bite.
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Spoon 1-teaspoon portions of the filling onto half of each gow gee wrapper. This generous amount ensures each pie is filled with delicious apple and caramel goodness.
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Brush the edges of the wrappers with water. Fold the wrappers over to enclose the filling and press the edges to seal tightly, ensuring the sweet treasure stays inside.
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Arrange the sealed hand pies on the prepared tray and bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to achieve that beautiful, crispy finish.
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Combine the cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl. This mixture will provide a delightful sweetness and warmth once brushed onto the warm pies.
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Brush the baked pies with melted butter then toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat. Serve warm, and watch everyone delight in their first bite!
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These apple and caramel hand pies are a fantastic candidate for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to enjoy delightful treats without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the filling (grated apple and caramel mixture) up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and flavorful. Additionally, you can assemble the pies and freeze them before baking for up to 24 hours. To maintain their quality, ensure they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, bake them straight from frozen or let them thaw in the fridge overnight, then brush with melted butter and toss in cinnamon sugar as instructed. Enjoy the same deliciousness with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Apple and Caramel Hand Pies?
Imagine the joy of a cozy dessert gathering filled with laughter, warm spices, and sweet indulgence.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: This creamy, cold delight contrasts perfectly with warm hand pies, creating a heavenly bite. Don’t forget a drizzle of caramel on top for extra sweetness!
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a luscious touch to each pie. A dollop of flavored whipped cream, like cinnamon or maple, can elevate the experience further.
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Spiced Apple Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider brings festive flavors that pair wonderfully with the sweetness of the pies. The aroma alone is enough to embrace you with cozy vibes.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling extra caramel sauce over the hand pies provides an even richer flavor. It enhances the caramel notes and keeps everyone coming back for more.
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Chai Tea: The warm spices of chai tea complement the cinnamon and apple in the hand pies beautifully, making every sip and bite a comforting experience.
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Mixed Berry Compote: A bright, tart berry compote elevates the sweetness and adds a refreshing touch. The contrasting flavors tease the palate while enhancing the hand pie’s flavor profile.
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Chocolate Sauce: Rich chocolate sauce can add a decadent twist. Lightly drizzle it over the pies or serve it as a dip for a sweet surprise.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing bowl of seasonal fruit can cleanse the palate and balances the sweetness of the pies beautifully. Choose berries, melons, or citrus for a vibrant mix.
Apple and Caramel Hand Pie Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these hand pies to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free wrappers or puff pastry to make these hand pies suitable for those avoiding gluten.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warm, spiced twist that complements the apple’s sweetness beautifully.
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Nutty Crunch: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for an added texture variation that will surprise your taste buds.
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Berry Burst: Replace half of the apple with fresh or frozen berries for a fruity explosion that enhances the flavor and color of the pies.
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Vegan: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based caramel for a delicious vegan-friendly treat.
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Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, drizzle melted chocolate on top for an indulgent finish that takes these pies to the next level.
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Cinnamon Raisin: Incorporate a handful of raisins to the filling, providing sweetness and chewy texture in every bite.
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Savory Delight: Turn it savory by using cheese or seasoned vegetables instead of caramel and apple. These hand pies can be a delightful appetizer too!
Let these variations inspire you as you bring your personal touch to the beloved apple and caramel hand pies!
Expert Tips for Apple and Caramel Hand Pies
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Grate Thoroughly: Ensure the apples are coarsely grated for even distribution in your hand pies and to prevent excess moisture.
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Seal Carefully: When folding the gow gee wrappers, make sure to press the edges firmly so the filling doesn’t leak during baking.
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Check Temperature: Keep an eye on the baking pies; oven temperatures can vary. Look for a golden color rather than just relying on time.
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Customize Filling: Feel free to experiment by adding nuts or a touch of vanilla extract to the apple and caramel filling for a personal twist.
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Serve Fresh: These apple and caramel hand pies are best enjoyed warm out of the oven. If making ahead, reheat briefly to regain their crispiness.
Storage Tips for Apple and Caramel Hand Pies
Room Temperature: Enjoy your apple and caramel hand pies fresh for the best taste, but they can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Fridge: If you’d like to extend the shelf life, store them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying to fully revive their flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the hand pies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5-7 minutes. This will bring back their delightful crispiness, making them just as delicious as when they were freshly baked!
Apple and Caramel Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. The balance of flavors will elevate your hand pies to the next level!
How long can I store the apple and caramel hand pies?
You can store your apple and caramel hand pies at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container. If you want them to last longer, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just allow them to come back to room temperature before indulging to enjoy their delightful flavors again.
Can I freeze these hand pies?
Yes, definitely! To freeze your hand pies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time until they are golden and delicious!
What should I do if the filling leaks out during baking?
No worries! To prevent leaking, ensure you firmly press the edges of the gow gee wrappers to seal them before baking. If any do leak out, simply use a spatula to gently remove any baked filling from the tray and still enjoy the deliciousness. The best part is, even with some minor imperfections, they’ll still taste fantastic!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! If you’re making these for someone with allergies, always check for any common allergens in your ingredients, such as gluten in the gow gee wrappers or potential dairy issues with the butter. You can also swap in gluten-free wrappers or use dairy-free butter to accommodate various dietary needs.
How do I achieve perfectly crispy hand pies?
To get that irresistible crispy texture, make sure to thoroughly drain the grated apples before mixing them with the caramel, as excess moisture can lead to soggy pies. Also, a gentle brush of melted butter before tossing them in cinnamon sugar gives them a stunning golden sheen and crunch. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Delicious Apple and Caramel Hand Pies for Sweet Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a large baking tray with non-stick baking paper to ensure easy cleanup and perfectly baked pies.
- Drain the grated apples by placing them in a clean tea towel and squeezing out any excess juice.
- Mix the drained apple with the caramel in a medium bowl. Stir until well combined.
- Spoon 1-teaspoon portions of the filling onto half of each gow gee wrapper.
- Brush the edges of the wrappers with water. Fold the wrappers over to enclose the filling and press the edges to seal tightly.
- Arrange the sealed hand pies on the prepared tray and bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Combine the cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl.
- Brush the baked pies with melted butter then toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat.