Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Cook the Fruit: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apples or peaches, granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the fruit is tender and the mixture is bubbly (about 10-15 minutes).
- Thicken the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Add this slurry to the fruit mixture and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the filling has thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the filling cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and granulated sugar.
- Cut in the Butter: Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Water: Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. If needed, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is smooth and holds together.
- Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Pies
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 5-6 inches in diameter) to cut out circles of dough.
- Add the Filling: Place a heaping tablespoon of the cooled fruit filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Seal the Pies: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with a fork to seal.
- Chill the Pies: Place the assembled pies on a baking sheet and refrigerate for about 15 minutes to help them hold their shape during frying.
Step 4: Fry the Pies
- Heat the Oil: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Pies: Carefully add the pies to the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pies and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Dust with Sugar: If desired, dust the fried pies with powdered sugar while they are still warm.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve Warm: Enjoy the fried apple or peach pies warm, either on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for Perfect Fried Apple or Peach Pies
- Fruit Choices: Use ripe, but firm, apples or peaches for the best texture and flavor.
- Dough Chilling: Chilling the dough and the assembled pies helps prevent them from falling apart during frying.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) to ensure even frying without making the pies too greasy.
Why These Pies Are a Must-Try
Fried apple or peach pies are a delightful combination of crispy pastry and sweet, juicy fruit filling. They are easy to make and provide a nostalgic taste that evokes memories of homemade comfort food. These hand pies are perfect for serving at gatherings, as a dessert, or even as a special treat to enjoy any time.
Variations to Try
- Different Fruits: Experiment with other fruits like cherries, blueberries, or mixed berries for the filling.
- Spice Mix: Try adding a pinch of ground ginger or allspice to the fruit filling for an extra layer of flavor.
- Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled pies for added sweetness.
Enjoy making and savoring these Fried Apple or Peach Pies, a classic treat that’s sure to please everyone!