Salted Caramel Apple Hand Pies

Salted Caramel Apple Hand Pies are the perfect individual-sized treat that combines the classic flavors of apple pie with the irresistible sweetness of salted caramel. These flaky, golden pastries are filled with tender spiced apples and a drizzle of rich caramel, offering a sweet and salty contrast that’s hard to resist. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed as a grab-and-go dessert, these hand pies make for a delightful and comforting treat, perfect for fall or any time you’re craving the warm, cozy flavors of apple pie.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 6-8 tbsp ice water

For the Filling:

• 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For Assembly:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp coarse sugar (for sprinkling)
• Extra salted caramel sauce for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Make the Crust: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, toss the diced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until well coated.
3. Roll Out the Dough: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about ⅛-inch thickness. Cut the dough into circles (about 4-5 inches in diameter) using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
4. Fill the Hand Pies: Place a spoonful of the apple mixture in the center of each dough circle, and drizzle a little salted caramel sauce on top. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and press the edges together with a fork to seal. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
5. Egg Wash and Bake: Transfer the hand pies to a lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar. Cut small slits on the top of each pie to allow steam to escape. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve: Let the hand pies cool slightly, then drizzle with extra salted caramel sauce before serving.

Enjoy these warm and flaky Salted Caramel Apple Hand Pies as a comforting fall dessert, or any time you’re craving a sweet, portable treat!