The Ultimate Guide to Fried Apple Pies – Crispy, Flaky, & Irresistible

Introduction: Fried Apple Pies

There’s something magical about biting into a crispy, golden-brown fried apple pie, especially when the warm, spiced apple filling oozes out. Unlike traditional baked apple pies, these handheld delights feature a buttery, flaky crust that turns perfectly crisp when fried. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic Southern treat or looking for a new way to enjoy apples, this guide will help you create the best homemade fried apple pies with ease.

Not only will we walk through the recipe step by step, but we’ll also explore the best apples to use, essential frying tips, and expert techniques to ensure perfectly crisp pies every time. By the end, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to master this classic dessert and impress your family and friends.

What Makes Fried Apple Pies So Special?

Fried apple pies aren’t just a dessert—they’re a comforting slice of American culinary history. These handheld pastries have been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations, with roots tracing back to old-fashioned Appalachian cooking. They were a popular treat because they were easy to make, required minimal ingredients, and could be fried in a simple cast-iron skillet.

How They Differ from Baked Apple Pies

While baked apple pies have a light, flaky crust, fried apple pies stand out with their deliciously crispy, golden shell. Here’s why they’re different:

✔ Crunchy Texture – Frying creates a deeply golden, flaky crust that’s crisp with every bite.
✔ Faster Cooking – Instead of waiting an hour for a full-sized pie to bake, these cook in minutes.
✔ Handheld Convenience – Their compact size makes them perfect for snacking on the go.
✔ More Intense Flavor – Frying enhances the buttery richness of the crust, complementing the apple filling.

Why Homemade is Better Than Store-Bought

Many fast-food chains, including McDonald’s, once fried their apple pies but later switched to baking them for health-conscious reasons. However, nothing beats the taste of freshly made fried apple pies—especially when you control the ingredients and sweetness levels. Plus, homemade versions avoid preservatives and let you customize flavors to your liking.

If you love flaky, fruit-filled pastries, you might also enjoy Mastering the Old-Fashioned Apple Turnover Recipe, which offers a delicious twist on another classic apple pastry.

Ingredients & Instructions: Fried Apple Pies

Before you begin, gather everything you need to create the perfect batch of fried apple pies.

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Apples	3 cups	Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended
Sugar	½ cup	Adjust to taste
Cinnamon	1 tsp	Essential for warmth
Nutmeg	½ tsp	Optional but flavorful
Butter	2 tbsp	For caramelizing apples
Pie Dough	1 batch	Homemade or store-bought
Oil (for frying)	2 cups	Peanut or vegetable oil works best

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Peel, core, and dice the apples into small chunks.
2. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Cook until the apples soften and caramelize, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.

Pro Tip: Letting the filling cool prevents the dough from becoming soggy when assembling the pies.

2. Roll and Cut the Dough

1. Roll out the pie dough on a floured surface until it’s about ⅛-inch thick.
2. Use a round cutter (or a bowl) to cut out 4-inch circles.

3. Assemble the Pies

1. Spoon a tablespoon of filling onto one half of each dough circle.
2. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
3. Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal the pie completely.

For additional tips on achieving a flaky and golden crust, check out this peach turnover guide.

4. Fry to Golden Perfection

1. Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully place the pies into the oil, frying for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Pro Tip: Fry in small batches to prevent the temperature from dropping too much, which can make the pies greasy.

Best Tips for the Perfect Fried Apple Pies

Why Did They Stop Frying Apple Pies?

Many fast-food chains, including McDonald’s, switched to baked apple pies for health reasons and easier mass production. However, fried apple pies remain a Southern favorite and a cherished homemade treat.

What Is the Best Oil for Frying?

The best oils for frying apple pies are:
✔ Peanut Oil – Provides crispiness and a neutral taste.
✔ Vegetable Oil – A common and affordable option.
✔ Canola Oil Works well but may have a slight flavor.

For those looking to perfect their frying skills, check out this guide on deep-frying techniques from Serious Eats, a trusted culinary resource that breaks down the science of achieving crispy perfection.

How to Keep Fried Pies from Getting Soggy

One of the biggest challenges when making fried apple pies is keeping them crisp. Here’s how to prevent sogginess:
✔ Drain Excess Oil: Place pies on paper towels immediately after frying.
✔ Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature.
✔ Cool Before Storing: Let pies cool before storing in an airtight container.

Choosing the Best Apples for Fried Apple Pies

The choice of apples is crucial in determining the texture and flavor of your fried apple pies. Some apples remain firm and flavorful after cooking, while others break down into a mushy consistency that can ruin the filling.

Best Apples for Fried Apple Pies

To achieve a balanced filling, it’s essential to select apples that offer both sweetness and acidity while maintaining their structure when cooked. Here are the best options:

• Granny Smith – These are the gold standard for apple pies. Their tartness balances the sugar, and they hold their shape well.
• Honeycrisp – This variety is naturally sweet, with a firm texture that resists breaking down during cooking.
• Braeburn – These apples have a complex, spicy-sweet flavor that enhances the pie filling.
• Jonagold – A hybrid of Golden Delicious and Jonathan apples, this variety adds depth to the filling with its natural sweetness.

Apples to Avoid

Certain apple varieties lack structure or have an overpowering sweetness, which can make the filling too runny or bland. Avoid these apples:

• Red Delicious – These apples are too soft and become mushy when cooked.
• McIntosh – While great for applesauce, they don’t hold up well in pies.

Looking for another airy dessert? Try this strawberry poke cake, which also relies on achieving a light texture.

How to Keep Fried Apple Pies from Getting Soggy

One of the biggest challenges when making fried apple pies is ensuring that they remain crispy and flaky. Without the right techniques, they can turn greasy or soft shortly after frying.

Pro Tips to Maintain Crispiness

1. Drain on Paper Towels – Immediately after frying, place the pies on paper towels to absorb excess oil and prevent sogginess.
2. Avoid Overstuffing – Too much filling can cause leaks, leading to a soggy crust.
3. Let the Filling Cool – Hot filling weakens the dough, making it more absorbent to oil.
4. Fry at the Right Temperature – Maintain an oil temperature of 350°F (175°C) to create a crispy exterior without overcooking the inside.

Delicious Variations of Fried Apple Pies

While the classic fried apple pie is hard to beat, there are many creative variations that can add new flavors and textures to this beloved treat.

Glazed Fried Apple Pies

For an extra indulgent treat, coat your fried apple pies with a vanilla glaze.

How to Make the Glaze:

• Whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
• Dip each fried pie into the glaze and place on a cooling rack to set.

Southern-Style Biscuit Dough Pies

Instead of using pie crust, many Southern recipes use biscuit dough. The result is a pie that’s fluffier inside while still crispy on the outside.

• Use store-bought refrigerated biscuit dough or make a homemade buttermilk biscuit dough.
• Roll it thin before filling and frying for a perfect balance of crisp and soft textures.

Air Fryer Fried Apple Pies (Healthier Alternative)

If you want a lighter version, the air fryer is a great option.

• Brush the pies lightly with oil and place them in the air fryer basket.
• Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
• The result? A crispy, golden-brown crust with less oil than traditional frying.

FAQs – Everything You Need to Know about Fried Apple Pies

Why Did They Stop Frying Apple Pies?

Fast-food chains, including McDonald’s, switched to baking apple pies to reduce calories and oil usage. However, traditional fried apple pies remain a favorite in Southern cuisine and homemade recipes.

What Is the Best Oil for Frying Pies?

✔ Peanut Oil – Has a high smoke point and gives crispiness without an overpowering flavor.
✔ Vegetable Oil – Neutral flavor and widely available.
✔ Canola oil is – Good alternative, though it may have a slightly stronger taste.

Avoid olive oil, as it has a low smoking point and can cause an unpleasant texture.

Why Does Hawaii Have Fried Apple Pies?

Unlike the mainland U.S., McDonald’s locations in Hawaii still serve fried apple pies because of regional preferences and high demand.

What Are the Best Apples for Fried Apple Pies?

For the best results, choose Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn apples. They provide the right balance of tartness and sweetness while maintaining their shape.

What Apples Should Not Be Used for Apple Pies?

Avoid Red Delicious and McIntosh, as they become too soft and watery when cooked.

Can I Make Fried Apple Pies Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the pies and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze un-fried pies and fry them directly from frozen.

How to Reheat Fried Apple Pies?

✔ Oven Method – Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes to restore crispiness.
✔ Air Fryer Method – Air fry at 370°F (188°C) for 4-5 minutes.
✔ Avoid Microwaving – This makes the crust soggy.

How Long Do Fried Apple Pies Last?

Fried apple pies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored:

• At room temperature for 1 day.
• In the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• In the freezer for up to 3 months.

Conclusion: Fried Apple Pies

Fried apple pies are a delicious, crispy, and nostalgic dessert that brings warmth and joy in every bite. By choosing the right apples, using proper frying techniques, and experimenting with fun variations, you can create a perfect homemade version of this classic treat.

Whether you prefer a traditional recipe or a creative twist, there’s no doubt that fried apple pies are a delightful treat worth mastering.

Print