If you’re on the hunt for a comfort-filled treat that combines classic flavors and modern ease, Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies are pure magic. These flaky pockets are stuffed with gooey apple pie filling and finished with a golden, sparkly lid of sugar — all with the air fryer’s magic touch. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic dessert, a kid-approved snack, or an impressive, foolproof bake for guests, this recipe fits the bill. The best part? Making Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies is far easier than you think, and every bite brings a taste of homemade joy.

Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps it beautifully simple, focusing on just a handful of accessible ingredients that each play a starring role. Every element adds its own festive touch, from the buttery, crisp crust to the bubbly filling and that fabulous sugar crunch on top.

Refrigerated Pie Crust (14.1 ounce package): The secret to quick, perfectly flaky pies without fussing over dough from scratch.
Apple Pie Filling (half of a 21-ounce can): For an easy shortcut, use canned; thick apple slices deliver flavor and the ideal juicy texture.
Large Egg: Beaten with water for a simple egg wash that gives the pies a golden, glossy finish.
Water: Just a splash, essential for sealing the pie edges and making the egg wash.
Turbinado Sugar (3 teaspoons): This coarse sugar adds irresistible crunch and that sparkly, bakery-style look.
Caramel Sauce (optional, for dipping): Bring your hand pies to the next level with a generous dip in sweet, buttery caramel.

How to Make Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies

Step 1: Let the Pie Crusts Warm Up

Start by removing the refrigerated pie crusts from their packaging. Let them gradually come to room temperature (follow the package instructions for best results). A softened crust is much easier to shape and won’t crack as you work—an essential step for perfect Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies.

Step 2: Cut Out Perfect Circles

Grab a 5-inch round cookie cutter and cut as many circles as you can from your pie crusts. If you have any leftover scraps, gather them up, re-roll, and cut again to maximize your dough. These circles are just the right size for one generous, hand-held pie.

Step 3: Add the Apple Filling and Seal

Spoon two slices (just the apples, not too much syrup) from the apple pie filling onto the bottom half of each dough circle. Dip your fingertip in water and moisten the dough’s outer edge all the way around. Fold the circle over the apples, forming a neat half-moon. Pinch the edges tightly, then use a fork to press and crimp, sealing in all that sweet filling.

Step 4: Brush with Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a splash of water. Using a pastry brush, coat the tops of each pie—this is what helps them bake up glossy and gorgeous in the air fryer. Don’t forget this step, as it also helps the sugar stick.

Step 5: Add a Crunchy Sugar Top

Sprinkle about half a teaspoon of turbinado sugar across the top of each pie. This layer bakes up into a shimmery, crunchy topping—impossible to resist and the hallmark of great Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies.

Step 6: Vent the Pies

Carefully make three small slits in the top of each pie with a sharp knife. These vents let steam escape, keeping your crust crisp and preventing any fillings from bursting out.

Step 7: Prep the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F for 5 minutes. Give the basket a quick mist with nonstick spray—this keeps your pies from sticking and ensures golden, even cooking.

Step 8: Air Fry the Hand Pies

Place two pies (or however many fit without touching) in the basket. Air fry for about 10 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling. Remove with care—the filling will be very hot—and transfer to a wire rack. Repeat with the remaining pies for a batch of warm, crisp Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies.

Step 9: Serve with Caramel Sauce

Once cooled slightly, these hand pies are irresistible dipped in caramel sauce. It’s the ultimate finishing touch that makes every bite swoon-worthy!

How to Serve Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies

Garnishes

The simplest way to elevate your pies is a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel, or a dollop of fresh whipped cream just before serving. Each of these adds extra sweetness and makes them look bakery-worthy.

Side Dishes

For a truly indulgent spread, pair Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a mug of spiced chai tea. The contrast of cold ice cream with the warm pie is a classic, while the tea brings cozy, autumnal notes that complement the apple filling.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving a crowd, arrange the hand pies in a basket lined with a pretty cloth napkin. For parties, skewer them on sticks for a playful twist, or stack on a tiered dessert stand for a show-stopping display. No matter how you present them, these pies always steal the spotlight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies (a rare but happy problem), let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to two days, or a bit longer in the fridge—just be sure to keep that sugar lid intact!

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap each cooled pie individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat from frozen—your future self will thank you!

Reheating

Bring leftover pies back to life in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes at 350°F. This crisps up the crust beautifully and re-melts the filling. If you’re in a rush, a quick zap in the microwave works, but for best texture, the air fryer is your friend.

FAQs

Can I use homemade apple pie filling?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade apple pie filling, it works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure it’s not too runny, as you want a thick filling that won’t leak out while frying.

Is it possible to make these pies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute a good-quality gluten-free pie crust. Check your canned filling to confirm it’s gluten-free as well, and follow the rest of the instructions as written for delicious gluten-free Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies.

Can I make mini versions for parties?

Definitely! Use a smaller cutter (around 3 inches) and reduce the air fry time by a few minutes. These bite-sized pies are perfect for sharing and look adorable on any dessert platter.

What if I don’t have turbinado sugar?

No worries—regular granulated sugar or even cinnamon sugar works well as a topping. Turbinado just gives that satisfying crunch and sparkle, but your pies will be delicious with whatever sugar you have on hand.

Can I use other fillings besides apple?

Of course! This recipe is super versatile. Try cherry, blueberry, or even a spoonful of Nutella and sliced bananas for a fun twist. The air fryer method works for all sorts of creative hand pies.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a cozy, homemade treat that comes together quickly and brings a smile to everyone’s face, you truly can’t go wrong with Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies. Whether you share them or keep them all to yourself, these little pies promise a taste of classic comfort with a fresh, modern spin. Give them a try—you’ll be surprised just how easy and joy-filled baking can be!

Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 24 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8 hand pies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These delicious Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies are a perfect treat for any time of day. Flaky pie crust filled with sweet apple pie filling and air-fried to golden perfection, they are a delightful dessert or snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Pie Crust:

14.1 ounce refrigerated package pie crust

Apple Filling:

1/2 can (21 ounce) apple pie filling

Egg Wash:

1 large egg
Water

Topping:

3 teaspoons turbinado sugar

Optional:

Caramel sauce for dipping

Instructions

Prepare Pie Crust: Remove pie crusts from packaging and allow to come to room temperature. Cut into 5-inch circles.
Add Filling: Place apple slices on half of the circles. Moisten edges with water, fold over, and seal.
Brush with Egg Wash: Whisk egg with water, brush over pies.
Add Topping: Sprinkle sugar on top, make slits, and air fry.
Air Fry: Preheat air fryer, cook pies in batches until golden brown.
Serve: Cool on a rack and enjoy with caramel sauce.

Notes

You can customize the filling with cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
Ensure the edges are sealed well to prevent filling from leaking during frying.
Monitor the pies as cooking times may vary based on air fryer models.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Air Fry
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 hand pie
Calories: 220
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Air Fryer, Hand Pies, Apple, Dessert, Easy Recipe