Description
Deliciously crispy and sweet fried peach or apple pies made with fresh or canned fruit filling wrapped in flaky pie crusts and fried to golden perfection. These Southern American-style hand pies are perfect for dessert or a special treat, with a delicate fruit filling scented with cinnamon and nutmeg, lightly fried in vegetable oil, and optionally dusted with powdered or cinnamon sugar.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit Filling
- 2 cups peeled and diced fresh or canned peaches or apples
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
Dough & Frying
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- All-purpose flour for dusting
- Vegetable oil for frying
Toppings (Optional)
- Powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine diced fruit, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the fruit softens and juices are released. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook another 1–2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Prepare the Pie Crusts: Unroll the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface and cut into 4- to 5-inch circles. Place 1–2 tablespoons of the fruit filling in the center of each circle.
- Shape the Pies: Fold the crust circles over the filling to form half-moon shapes. Press the edges together with a fork to seal completely. Chill the pies in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes to help them hold their shape during frying.
- Heat the Oil: Pour about 1½ inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or pot and heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor temperature for even frying.
- Fry the Pies: Fry the pies in batches for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding. Use tongs to carefully flip the pies for even cooking.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer fried pies to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. While still warm, sprinkle with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar if desired. Serve immediately for best taste.
Notes
- These pies can also be baked at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden for a lighter alternative.
- For extra indulgence, serve warm fried pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Ensure oil temperature stays consistent to avoid greasy pies.
- Chilling the shaped pies before frying helps prevent them from opening during cooking.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
