Golden Air Fryer Apple Pies (Print Format)

Flaky hand pies with spiced apple filling crisped to golden perfection in an air fryer.

# Ingredients:

→ Fruit Filling

01 - 2 cups diced tart apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
02 - 3 tbsp brown sugar
03 - 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
04 - 1 tsp ground cinnamon
05 - 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
06 - 1 tbsp cornstarch

→ Pastry

07 - 2 sheets refrigerated pie crust, thawed

→ Finishing

08 - 1 large egg
09 - 1 tbsp milk
10 - 1 tbsp granulated sugar
11 - Optional: powdered sugar or glaze for dusting or drizzling

# Steps:

01 - Combine diced apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until apples soften and mixture thickens, approximately 6 minutes. Cool completely before use.
02 - On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed pie crust sheets. Use a 4-5 inch round cutter or glass rim to cut eight rounds. Gather scraps and re-roll if necessary to reach eight circles total.
03 - Place one tablespoon of cooled filling onto the center of four pastry rounds. Cover each with a remaining round and press edges together firmly with a fork to seal completely.
04 - Whisk egg and milk until combined. Brush mixture over tops and edges of hand pies. Sprinkle granulated sugar evenly on top for a golden, crisp finish.
05 - Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
06 - Arrange hand pies in a single layer inside the air fryer basket with space between each. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden brown and crisp. Cook in batches if necessary.
07 - Remove pies gently with a spatula and let cool on a rack until warm to the touch. Optionally dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze. Serve warm.

# Tips:

01 - Cool the filling completely to prevent soggy crusts and ensure crisp texture.
02 - Seal edges firmly with a fork to avoid filling leakage during air frying.
03 - Use fresh spices for the best flavor impact.