Fried Pies Recipe

Imagine biting into a perfectly crisp, golden pastry shell that gives way to warm, sweet filling that oozes with every bite. That’s the magic of homemade Fried Pies – a delightful handheld treat that brings together flaky crust and luscious fillings in perfect harmony. These portable pastries have been a beloved comfort food across generations, combining the satisfaction of pie with the irresistible appeal of fried goodness. Whether you’re craving apple, peach, or savory options, Fried Pies deliver an explosion of flavors and textures that’s simply unforgettable. You’ll learn how to create these delicious treats from scratch, with foolproof techniques that ensure perfect results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Fried Pies Recipe

This Fried Pies recipe delivers that nostalgic comfort food experience with the added satisfaction of being homemade. The contrast between the crispy, golden exterior and the soft, flavorful filling creates an irresistible textural experience that store-bought versions simply can’t match. What makes this recipe particularly special is its versatility – you can customize fillings based on seasonal fruits or pantry staples, making it perfect for any time of year.

The recipe is surprisingly approachable, even for baking novices. The dough comes together quickly and is forgiving to work with, while the frying process takes just minutes per batch. These pies make wonderful portable desserts for picnics or packed lunches, staying delicious even hours after they’re made. The individual portions also eliminate the need for slicing and serving, making them perfect for casual gatherings or family desserts where everyone can grab their own personal treat.

Ingredients for Perfect Fried Pies

For the Dough:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour – provides structure while remaining tender
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar – adds subtle sweetness to complement fillings
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – enhances flavor and balances sweetness
• 1/3 cup (75g) cold unsalted butter, cubed – creates flaky layers when fried
• 1/4 cup (60ml) cold vegetable shortening – helps achieve the perfect texture
• 1/3 cup (80ml) ice water – binds the dough without overworking
• 1 large egg – adds richness and helps seal the pies

For Sweet Filling (Apple):

• 2 cups (about 2 medium) apples, peeled and diced small – Granny Smith works best
• 1/3 cup (67g) brown sugar – provides caramel notes
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – brightens flavor and prevents browning
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – adds warmth and classic apple pie flavor
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch – thickens filling to prevent leaks

For Frying:

• 4 cups (960ml) vegetable oil – neutral flavor with high smoke point
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional) – adds sweetness and visual appeal

Pro Tips for Fried Pies Success

Keep everything cold when making the dough. Cold butter and shortening are essential for creating those flaky layers that make Fried Pies so irresistible. If the fats melt before frying, you’ll lose that perfect texture. Work quickly and return the dough to the refrigerator if it starts to feel warm or soft during preparation.

Pre-cook your fillings before assembling the pies. Raw fruits release too much liquid during cooking and can cause the pies to burst open or become soggy. By cooking fillings beforehand, you reduce moisture and concentrate flavors. Allow the filling to cool completely before assembling the pies to prevent steam from making the dough soggy.

Maintain proper oil temperature throughout the frying process. The ideal range is 350-365°F (175-185°C). Too hot, and the outside will burn before the dough cooks through; too cool, and the pies will absorb excess oil and become greasy. Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer for accuracy, and fry only a few pies at a time to maintain consistent temperature. Let the oil return to the target temperature between batches for consistently golden, perfectly cooked Fried Pies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and shortening. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the fats into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces remaining. Drizzle in ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough just begins to come together. You may not need all the water. Gather the dough into a ball, flatten into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare Your Filling

For sweet apple filling, combine diced apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples soften and mixture thickens. Remove from heat and cool completely. The filling should be thick enough to hold its shape when scooped.

Step 3: Form the Pies

On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a 4-inch round cutter or small bowl as a guide, cut circles from the dough. Re-roll scraps as needed. Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle, being careful not to overfill. Brush the edges with beaten egg, fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, and press the edges together firmly.

Step 4: Seal and Crimp

Seal each Fried Pie by pressing the edges with the tines of a fork. This step is crucial to prevent filling from leaking during frying. Make sure the seal is tight all the way around. For extra insurance against leaks, refrigerate the assembled pies for 15-20 minutes before frying to firm up the dough.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower 2-3 pies into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until deeply golden. Use a slotted spoon to remove pies to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Allow the oil to return to temperature between batches. Dust warm pies with powdered sugar if desired, or drizzle with a simple glaze once cooled.

Delicious Fried Pies Variations

Savory Fried Pies: Transform this treat into a meal by filling with cooked ground beef seasoned with taco spices, shredded cheese, and diced jalapeños. Another fantastic savory option combines diced ham, cheddar cheese, and a touch of Dijon mustard. For vegetarians, try a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and feta cheese. These savory Fried Pies make perfect handheld lunches or appetizers.

Seasonal Fruit Variations: Adapt your Fried Pies to showcase the best fruits of each season. In summer, use fresh peaches or berries; in fall, try pear with ginger or pumpkin with warm spices. For a tropical twist, fill with a mixture of mango and pineapple, spiced with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability – you can even use quality canned pie fillings in a pinch for equally delicious results.

Dietary Adaptations: For a vegan version, replace butter with plant-based butter and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for sealing. For gluten-free Fried Pies, substitute a quality cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend in the dough recipe and add 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum if the blend doesn’t already contain it.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Fried Pies are best enjoyed the day they’re made, when the contrast between crisp exterior and tender filling is at its peak. However, leftovers can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To refresh them, place in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and recrisped.

For longer storage, freeze uncooked assembled pies on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Fry directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.

Serve these delightful treats with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elevated dessert experience. The contrast between hot pie and cold ice cream is simply magical. For breakfast or brunch, pair with fresh fruit and a dollop of whipped cream. Savory versions make an excellent light meal alongside a simple green salad. For a fun presentation at parties, create a Fried Pies bar with different fillings and toppings, allowing guests to customize their experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fried Pies

Can I bake these pies instead of frying them? Yes! While the texture won’t be identical, you can bake these pies at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Brush with egg wash before baking for shine.

Why did my fried pies burst open during cooking? This typically happens when: 1) The pies contain too much filling, 2) The edges weren’t sealed properly, or 3) The oil temperature was too high. Ensure you’re using just 1 tablespoon of filling and firmly seal all edges.

Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely. The dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

What’s the best oil for frying these pies? Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. Avoid olive oil, which has too low a smoke point and a strong flavor.

Why are my fried pies greasy? This usually indicates the oil wasn’t hot enough. Use a thermometer to ensure it stays between 350-365°F (175-185°C) throughout frying.

Conclusion

This Fried Pies recipe is comfort food at its finest — a perfect marriage of flaky, crispy crust and flavorful, satisfying fillings that transport you back to simpler times. It’s the kind of dish that brings generations together, creating new memories around age-old traditions. Whether you choose sweet or savory fillings, these handheld treasures deliver an undeniable joy with every bite. From family gatherings to solo indulgences, these homemade treats always feel special while being surprisingly easy to create. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll discover why Fried Pies have stood the test of time as a beloved comfort food classic.

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