Fried Pies

Fried pies are a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy to any occasion. These golden, crispy pastries are filled with sweet fruit, making them perfect for dessert or a snack. Easy to make and versatile in flavor, fried pies can impress guests at parties or serve as a cozy family dessert. Their flaky crust and warm filling are sure to be a hit with everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these fried pies quickly.
• Customizable Flavors: Choose your favorite fruits for the filling, ensuring every batch is unique and delicious.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering, picnic, or holiday celebration, these pies fit right in.
• Crispy Texture: The flaky pastry offers a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the sweet fruit filling.
• Kid-Friendly Treat: Kids will love helping out in the kitchen and indulging in these tasty pastries.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes the process of making fried pies much easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Rolling pin
• Round cutter or glass
• Deep skillet or frying pan
• Tongs
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of ingredients without spills.
• Rolling pin: This tool helps roll out the dough evenly, ensuring a consistent thickness for frying.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping the pies gently in hot oil, ensuring even cooking without breaking them apart.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
• ½ cup cold water (or more as needed)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 2 cups fresh or canned fruit (such as apples, peaches, or cherries), chopped
• ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste depending on fruit sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added tartness)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for spiced fillings)
• Vegetable oil or sunflower oil for frying
• Powdered sugar for dusting

How to Make Fried Pies

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. If using vanilla extract, add it here. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time until the dough begins to come together. You may need slightly more or less water depending on humidity and flour type.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead gently for a few minutes until smooth. Take care not to overwork the dough; this keeps it tender.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This helps firm it up and makes rolling out easier.

Step 4: Prepare the Fruit Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine your choice of fruit with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice (if using), and cinnamon (if using). Cook over medium heat while stirring occasionally until thickened and soft—about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

After chilling the dough, remove it from the fridge. On a lightly floured surface, roll out to about ⅛-inch thickness.

Step 6: Cut the Dough

Using a round cutter or glass, cut circles about 4-5 inches in diameter from the rolled-out dough.

Step 7: Fill the Pies

Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of cooled fruit filling into each circle’s center.

Step 8: Seal the Pies

Fold each circle over to create a half-moon shape. Press edges tightly together then crimp with a fork to seal well.

Step 9: Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about two inches of oil over medium heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). To test if ready, drop in a small piece of dough; if it bubbles up immediately, it’s hot enough.

Step 10: Fry the Pies

Carefully place prepared pies into hot oil in batches. Fry for about two to three minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip them carefully.

Step 11: Drain the Pies

Once fried, remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 12: Serve

Allow fried pies to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired for an extra touch of sweetness.

How to Serve Fried Pies

Fried pies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate the experience, there are plenty of serving ideas to make your fried pies even more enjoyable.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess to the crisp pie.
• Cinnamon Ice Cream: This option enhances the flavors of spiced fruit fillings for a warm touch.

Dusting Options

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting adds sweetness and an appealing look.
• Cocoa Powder: For chocolate lovers, a sprinkle of cocoa can complement certain fruit flavors.

Dipping Sauces

• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel for a rich addition that pairs well with apples and peaches.
• Chocolate Sauce: A perfect match for cherries, providing a decadent twist.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Mixed Berries: Serve alongside fresh berries for color and freshness.
• Sliced Bananas: Adds a tropical note and contrasts nicely with sweet fillings.

How to Perfect Fried Pies

Perfecting fried pies requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your pies turn out delicious every time.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Keeping your butter and water cold helps create a flaky crust.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Knead gently to maintain tenderness; overworking will lead to tough pies.
• Test Oil Temperature: Ensure oil is hot enough before frying by dropping in a small piece of dough; it should sizzle immediately.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Fry a few at a time for even cooking; overcrowding drops the oil temperature and leads to soggy pies.
• Cool Before Serving: Allow them to cool slightly after frying; this helps set the filling and avoids burns.

Best Side Dishes for Fried Pies

Fried pies can be complemented with several side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Salad: A light mixed greens salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of fried pies.
2. Fruit Compote: Serve a warm fruit compote alongside for added moisture and flavor contrast.
3. Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs well with savory or sweet fried pies.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the pies.
5. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can provide comfort alongside crispy fried treats.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add color and nutrition, complementing your meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making fried pies can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your success.

• Using Warm Butter: Always use chilled butter in your dough. Warm butter will lead to a tough texture instead of a flaky crust.
• Overworking the Dough: Gently knead the dough just until smooth. Overworking it can make the pies dense instead of light and airy.
• Skipping the Chill Time: Don’t skip refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the fat solidify, making the dough easier to roll out.
• Filling Too Much: Be cautious with the amount of filling you add. Overfilling can cause leaks during frying and result in messy pies.
• Not Testing Oil Temperature: Always check if the oil is hot enough before frying. Frying in cool oil will lead to greasy, soggy pies.
• Skipping Powdered Sugar Dusting: Finish with powdered sugar for added sweetness and presentation. It elevates your fried pies from good to great!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store fried pies in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Fried Pies

• Place cooled fried pies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag; they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Fried Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30-60 seconds; this method may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to restore crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing fried pies.

What fruits work best for Fried Pies?

You can use a variety of fruits such as apples, peaches, cherries, or even mixed berries. Choose fruits that are sweet and juicy for optimal flavor.

Can I make Fried Pies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and fruit filling ahead of time and store them separately until you’re ready to fry.

How do I know when my Fried Pies are done?

Fried pies are ready when they are golden brown on both sides and float slightly in the oil. They should take about 2-3 minutes per side.

Can I customize my Fried Pie filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fruits or even savory fillings like chicken or vegetables based on your taste preferences.

How should I store leftover Fried Pies?

Leftover fried pies should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These fried pies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various fruit fillings or even try savory versions. Their flaky crust and sweet filling make them perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any snack time treat! Try making them today and enjoy this delightful recipe!

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Fried Pies

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Fried Pies are a delightful, crispy treat that brings warmth and joy to any gathering or cozy family evening. These golden pastries are filled with your favorite fruits, making them perfect for dessert or a sweet snack. With their flaky crust and warm, fruity filling, Fried Pies are not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a comforting dessert, these fried pies will surely impress everyone.

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Ingredients

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• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• ½ cup cold water (or more as needed)
• 2 cups fresh or canned fruit (apples, peaches, cherries), chopped
• ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Powdered sugar for dusting

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Cut in the butter until crumbly. Gradually add cold water until dough forms.
2. Knead gently on a floured surface until smooth; wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
3. Prepare fruit filling by cooking fruit with sugar in a saucepan until thickened.
4. Roll out dough to about ⅛-inch thickness and cut into circles.
5. Spoon filling into the center of each circle, fold over, and seal edges.
6. Heat oil in a skillet to about 350°F (175°C). Fry pies for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 15mg