If you love the comforting flavors of warm fruit desserts with a delightful crispy crust, you are going to adore this Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe. These golden pockets of joy combine the natural sweetness of fresh apples or peaches with a perfectly tender, flaky dough, fried to crisp perfection. Each bite offers a beautiful balance of tender fruit filling spiced just right and a satisfying crunch that makes these pies simply irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic treat or a fun new way to enjoy seasonal fruit, this recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe is how it uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create magic. Each element plays a crucial role—from the fresh fruit that brings vibrant flavor and texture, to the spices that add warmth and depth, and the dough that frames it all in a golden crust.
- 3 cups fresh apples or peaches, peeled and diced: The star of the filling, providing juicy sweetness and tender bite.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds crisp sweetness that enhances the natural fruit flavors.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings a rich, caramel-like depth to the filling.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: A warm spice that perfectly complements apples and peaches alike.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional): Offers a subtle, aromatic touch that elevates the pie filling.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the filling and balances the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and a slight creaminess to the fruit mixture.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water: Thickens the filling to prevent sogginess in the pies.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the foundation of the flaky dough.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the dough a light, tender texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dough and filling.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Creates flakiness in the pastry with rich flavor.
- 3/4 cup buttermilk (or milk): Tenderizes the dough and adds moisture.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): The cooking medium that turns the pies crispy and golden.
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting): A sweet finishing touch for presentation and flavor.
How to Make Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by cooking your fresh diced apples or peaches with both the granulated and brown sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg if you like, and a splash of lemon juice. This combination will soften the fruit and meld the spices nicely. Stir in the butter while warm, then thicken the mixture with your cornstarch slurry. Allow it to cool completely—this step ensures the filling won’t be too runny when enclosed in the dough.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture looks crumbly like coarse sand. Pour in the buttermilk and gently knead the dough just until it comes together smoothly. Avoid overworking it to keep the texture tender and flaky. Once ready, roll the dough out to about 1/8 inch thickness and cut into circles large enough to hold a good spoonful of your filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Pies
Place a spoonful of the cooled fruit filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, then seal the edges tightly by pressing them with a fork or your fingers to keep all that delicious filling inside.
Step 4: Fry the Pies
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to around 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the pies into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each pie until it turns a beautiful golden brown and crispy on both sides, usually about 2–3 minutes per side. Drain them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve
Once fried and cooled slightly, dust your pies with powdered sugar if desired to add a pretty finishing touch. Now, they are ready to be enjoyed—warm, crispy, and full of sweet, spiced fruit goodness.
How to Serve Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar is classic, but you can also drizzle them with honey or a caramel sauce to dial up the indulgence. Fresh mint leaves or a scoop of vanilla ice cream make lovely companions that add color and contrast.
Side Dishes
These fried pies shine as a sweet snack or dessert and pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. For a heartier option, serve alongside creamy whipped cream or a slice of sharp cheddar cheese to create a delightful sweet and savory experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, serve your Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of whipped cream, caramel sauce, and fresh fruit for guests to customize. You can also wrap them in parchment paper tied with twine for a charming picnic treat or party favor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to preserve their crispiness. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is fine but allow the pies to come to room temperature before serving to regain some of their original texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the fried pies by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe leftovers is in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. This reheating method helps restore the flaky crust’s crunch without drying out the filling.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh for the filling?
Yes, frozen fruit can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking the filling to prevent it from becoming too watery.
Is it possible to bake these pies instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking is a great option for a lighter version. Brush the assembled pies with an egg wash and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
What kind of oil is best for frying these pies?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil to ensure the pies fry evenly without burning.
Can I make the dough gluten-free?
With some experimenting, you can substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Keep in mind the texture might vary slightly from traditional dough.
How do I prevent the pies from being greasy after frying?
Maintaining the correct oil temperature is key. Too cool, and the pies will absorb more oil. Also, draining on paper towels immediately after frying helps remove excess oil for a crisp, not greasy, finish.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making and sharing this Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe—it’s comfort food that tastes like a warm hug. The combination of sweet fruit, fragrant spices, and a crispy, flaky crust is endlessly satisfying. Give it a try soon and watch it become a beloved tradition in your home just as it is in mine!
Print
Fried Apple or Peach Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Fried Apple or Peach Pies are delightful handheld treats featuring a sweet and spiced fruit filling encased in a tender homemade dough and fried to a golden brown perfection. Perfect for dessert or a special snack, these pies combine a crisp exterior with a luscious, cinnamon-infused fruit center. Serve them warm dusted with powdered sugar for an irresistible classic comfort food experience.
Ingredients
Filling
- 3 cups fresh apples or peaches, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup buttermilk (or milk)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a saucepan, combine the diced apples or peaches with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the fruit has softened and released its juices, stirring occasionally.
- Thicken the Filling: Stir in the butter, then gradually add the cornstarch-water mixture to the fruit, stirring continuously. Cook until the filling thickens. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely before assembling the pies.
- Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Buttermilk and Knead: Pour in the buttermilk (or milk) and knead the dough gently until it forms a smooth and pliable ball. Be careful not to overwork the dough to maintain its tenderness.
- Roll and Cut Dough Circles: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a cup to cut out circles approximately 4 to 5 inches in diameter.
- Assemble the Pies: Place a spoonful of the cooled fruit filling onto the center of each dough circle. Fold the circle over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly to seal. You may crimp the edges with a fork to ensure they are well sealed.
- Heat Oil for Frying: In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat to approximately 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough for the pies to float while frying.
- Fry the Pies: Carefully place the pies into the hot oil, frying a few at a time without overcrowding. Fry each side for about 2 to 3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crisp.
- Drain Excess Oil: Use a slotted spoon to remove the pies from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Once slightly cooled, dust the fried pies with powdered sugar if desired and enjoy warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, substitute buttermilk with a plant-based milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice and use margarine instead of butter.
- Make sure the filling is fully cooled before assembling to prevent the dough from getting soggy.
- Use a thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature for even frying and to avoid greasy pies.
- Leftover pies can be reheated in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispness.
- Try using other fruits like cherries or berries for variety.
