Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies
Delight in these crispy, golden apple hand pies made quickly and easily in your air fryer. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert with a flaky crust and warm cinnamon-spiced apple filling.
Reviewed by Savory Trail Test Kitchen · Published August 8, 2026 · Updated August 17, 2026
Air fryer apple hand pies are a quick and mess-free way to enjoy a classic treat. For best results, lightly brush the pies with egg wash before air frying to achieve a beautiful golden crust.
About this dish
Air fryer apple hand pies are a simple, portable dessert made with flaky pie dough and a warmly spiced apple filling. Each one bakes up into a crisp half-moon pastry with tender diced apples tucked inside, making them feel like a mini homemade pie without the fuss of a full pie.
The air fryer is a great fit for these hand pies because it gives the crust fast, even browning while keeping the filling tucked inside and the edges sealed. Expect a golden, crisp exterior and a soft apple center with a little cinnamon sweetness in every bite; letting them cool slightly helps the filling settle before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 package pie dough (store-bought or homemade, enough for about 6 hand pies)
- 2 medium apple (peeled, cored, and diced)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (to thicken filling)
- 1 large egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch until well combined.
- Roll out the pie dough and cut into 4-inch circles.
- Place a spoonful of the apple filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal.
- Brush the tops of the hand pies with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Place the hand pies in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not touch.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
- Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving.
Tips
Please verify air fryer temperatures and cooking times as they can vary by model; adjust accordingly to prevent burning or undercooking.
Variations & substitutions
- Swap in a mix of apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for a filling that balances tartness and sweetness.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or apple pie spice to the filling for a warmer spice profile.
- Use homemade pie dough if you want a more buttery, tender crust than store-bought dough.
- Brush the tops with milk instead of egg wash for a lighter sheen if you prefer.
- Stir a few raisins into the apple mixture for a slightly chewier filling.
What to serve with
- Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pie-and-ice-cream pairing.
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness and a dessert-shop finish.
- Pair with hot coffee or black tea to balance the sweet, cinnamon filling.
- Offer with a dollop of whipped cream for a light, creamy topping.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make air fryer apple hand pies ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them ahead and keep them covered in the refrigerator for a short time before air frying. For the best texture, air fry them just before serving so the crust stays crisp.
How do I store leftover apple hand pies?
Let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for a few days, though the crust will soften a bit over time.
How do I reheat apple hand pies in the air fryer?
Reheat them in the air fryer at a lower temperature until warmed through and crisp again. Keep an eye on them so the crust does not overbrown.
Can I use frozen pie dough for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw the pie dough according to the package directions before rolling and cutting. It should be pliable enough to shape without cracking.
How do I know when the hand pies are done?
They are done when the crust is golden brown and crisp on the outside. Since the filling is diced apples, it should be tender by the time the pastry reaches that color.
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