Introduction
I have always been a firm believer that food has the power to bring people together. Every family has its own treasured recipes, passed down through generations, that have become the stuff of legends. One such recipe in my family is the beloved fried apple pies. These delectable treats have been a staple at our family gatherings for as long as I can remember. The combination of crispy golden crust and sweet, cinnamon-infused apple filling is simply irresistible. Today, I am excited to share this cherished recipe with you, just like it was shared with me.
The Story Behind the Recipe
As with many family recipes, the story behind our fried apple pies is a special one. It all started with my great-grandmother, who hailed from the heart of the South. She was known for her culinary prowess and her ability to create mouthwatering dishes out of the simplest ingredients. One day, while rummaging through her old recipe box, I stumbled upon a faded index card with the handwritten instructions for these fried apple pies. Intrigued, I decided to give it a try.
Little did I know that this humble recipe would soon become a cherished tradition in our family. The first time I made these pies, the aroma filled the air, drawing family members from all corners of the house. The warm, flaky pastries disappeared in minutes, and the unanimous verdict was that these fried apple pies were something truly special.
Preparing the Fried Apple Pies
Now, let me guide you through the step-by-step process of making these delightful fried apple pies. Trust me, the effort is well worth the reward!
First, gather your ingredients. You will need:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice water
– 4 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Begin by making the dough. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the cold butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Next, drizzle in the ice water, a little at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently a few times to ensure it is well combined. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
While the dough chills, prepare the apple filling. In a separate bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Toss the mixture gently to evenly coat the apples in the sweet cinnamon goodness.
Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and divide it into 8 equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion into a thin circle, approximately 6 inches in diameter.
Place a spoonful of the apple filling in the center of each rolled-out dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, then press the edges together to seal the pie. Use a fork to crimp the edges for added decorative flair.
Now, it’s time to fry those pies! In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil to a temperature of 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the pies into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until they turn golden brown on both sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side.
Once the pies are beautifully golden, remove them from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly before serving, as the apple filling can get quite hot.
Variations and Adaptations
While the classic fried apple pies are undeniably delicious, there are a few variations you can explore to add your own personal touch:
– Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or a dash of lemon juice to the apple filling for a subtle twist of flavor.
– Serve the pies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
– For a savory twist, try filling the pies with a mixture of sautéed onions, ground beef, and spices for a delightful hand-held meat pie.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The dough can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 2 days before use. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Q: Can I freeze the fried apple pies?
A: Yes, you can freeze the pies after frying. Once they have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: Can I use a different type of fruit?
A: Absolutely! While apples are the traditional choice for these pies, you can experiment with other fruits like peaches, cherries, or even a combination of berries.
Conclusion
There you have it, the recipe for our beloved fried apple pies. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing these pies as my family has over the years. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or indulging in a sweet treat on a cozy evening, these fried apple pies are sure to become a cherished tradition in your own home. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will delight your taste buds and warm your heart.
