These Fried Apple Pies are like little golden pockets of fall flavor. Crispy on the outside, warm and cinnamon-sweet on the inside, they’re everything you crave in a nostalgic hand pie. Made with tender apples cooked down into a gooey, spiced filling and wrapped in flaky dough, these are the treats that make kitchens smell like comfort and joy. The best part? That buttery, golden crust that shatters into the perfect crunch with each bite.

Whether you’re making them for a cozy holiday dessert table, a Southern-inspired brunch, or a weekend baking project, these fried apple pies will steal the show. You can make them in advance, fry them fresh to serve warm, and even drizzle with caramel for an extra indulgent finish.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

For the best flavor and texture, use firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. They hold their shape well during cooking and balance the sweetness of the filling with a hint of tartness. You can even use a mix to get the best of both worlds: sweet and tangy.

Ingredients for the Fried Apple Pies

Apples
The heart of the filling. Choose firm, tart-sweet apples for depth and structure.

Sugar
Sweetens the filling and helps it caramelize into that jammy texture.

Cinnamon & Nutmeg
These spices bring warm, cozy notes that make the apples pop.

Butter
Adds richness to the filling and helps cook down the apples into a luscious mixture.

Pie Dough or Biscuit Dough
Use store-bought or homemade. Biscuit dough gives a puffier, tender bite, while pie dough is more classic and flaky.

Egg (for egg wash)
Helps seal the edges and gives that golden finish when frying.

Oil for Frying
Neutral oil like vegetable or canola works best. It gives a crisp, even fry.

Powdered Sugar or Caramel Sauce
Optional topping for an extra layer of sweetness and presentation flair.

How To Make the Fried Apple Pies

Step 1: Make the Apple Filling

Peel, core, and dice the apples. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook until the apples are soft and the mixture is thickened, about 10–12 minutes. Let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Roll out your pie dough or biscuit dough on a floured surface and cut into circles (4–6 inches wide). You can use a cookie cutter or bowl.

Step 3: Fill and Fold

Spoon a tablespoon or two of the cooled apple mixture into the center of each dough circle. Brush the edges with beaten egg, fold over, and press edges with a fork to seal.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).

Step 5: Fry the Pies

Carefully lower the pies into the hot oil in batches. Fry 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan.

Step 6: Drain and Cool

Remove pies with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 7: Add Final Touches

Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce while still warm.

Serving and Storing Fried Apple Pies

These pies are best served warm and fresh from the fryer with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel. The contrast between the crispy exterior and gooey apple filling is unbeatable.

To store, let the pies cool completely and keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to revive the crispness.

For longer storage, freeze uncooked pies after assembling. When ready to fry, cook straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes extra frying time.

What to Serve With Fried Apple Pies?

Vanilla Ice Cream

Classic pairing that melts into the warm filling.

Hot Apple Cider

A cozy drink that echoes the spiced apple flavor.

Salted Caramel Sauce

Serve on the side or drizzle generously for sweet-salty contrast.

Fresh Whipped Cream

Light and airy topping to cut through the richness.

Maple Glazed Bacon

Savory, sweet, and crispy—perfect for brunch.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Old-school combo! Adds a savory bite that enhances the apple.

Chai Latte

The spiced warmth complements the cinnamon filling beautifully.

Crushed Pecans or Walnuts

Add crunch and a nutty finish sprinkled over the top.

Fried Apple Pies

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Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8 pies
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Golden, crisp, and filled with cinnamon-spiced apple goodness, these Fried Apple Pies are a nostalgic Southern dessert you’ll want to make again and again. The flaky crust and gooey filling come together with a buttery crunch that’s perfect for cozy desserts, holiday treats, or quick weekend bakes. Serve them warm, top with caramel or powdered sugar, and prepare to fall in love with every bite.

Instructions

1. Peel, core, and dice the apples. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook until the apples are soft and the mixture is thickened, about 10 to 12 minutes. Let it cool.

2. Roll out your pie dough or biscuit dough on a floured surface and cut into circles 4 to 6 inches wide.

3. Spoon a tablespoon or two of the cooled apple mixture into the center of each dough circle. Brush the edges with beaten egg, fold over, and press edges with a fork to seal.

4. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).

5. Carefully lower the pies into the hot oil in batches. Fry 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan.

6. Remove pies with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

7. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce while still warm.