The Ultimate Guide to Perfectly Crispy Fried Apple or Peach Pies
There’s something about fried apple or peach pies that evokes a sense of nostalgia. These handheld delights are a Southern classic, known for their flaky, golden crust and warm, spiced fruit filling. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat after a hearty meal or looking to impress guests at a family gathering, these pies are guaranteed to steal the show. Made with simple ingredients and packed with flavor, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Let’s dive into the details of making these irresistible fried fruit pies at home.
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Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Understanding each ingredient’s role helps ensure a perfect result every time.
1. 8 ounces dried apples or dried peaches
These form the base of your filling. Dried fruits provide concentrated flavor and a slightly chewy texture that holds up beautifully during frying.
2. 1 cup water
Hydrates the dried fruit, making it tender and juicy for the filling.
3. 1/3 cup sugar
Adds sweetness and enhances the natural flavors of the fruit.
4. 1 tablespoon butter
Enriches the filling with a creamy, luxurious texture.
5. 1 teaspoon cinnamon or apple pie spice
Infuses the filling with warm, aromatic spices that elevate the flavor profile.
6. 1 can jumbo refrigerated flaky biscuits
Acts as the crust for your pies. Their flaky layers crisp up beautifully when fried.
7. Vegetable oil, for frying
Provides the medium for frying, ensuring a golden, crunchy crust.
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Step-by-Step Instructions for Fried Apple or Peach Pies
Prepare the Filling
1. Cook the Fruit:
In a medium saucepan, combine dried apples or peaches and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 30 minutes, or until the fruit is tender.
2. Mash and Sweeten:
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the fruit cool slightly. Mash the mixture lightly if the pieces are large. Stir in sugar, butter, and your choice of cinnamon or apple pie spice. Set aside to cool completely.
Pro Tip: If you’re using fresh apples, sauté 4 peeled, cored, and chopped apples with 2 tablespoons of butter, sugar, cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice for about 15 minutes. Mash slightly before cooling.
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Assemble the Pies
3. Roll Out the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll each biscuit into a 5-inch circle. This ensures the dough is thin enough to crisp up when fried.
4. Add the Filling:
Place about 1 tablespoon of the fruit mixture on one side of each circle. Dip your fingers in water and lightly moisten the edges of the dough.
5. Seal the Pies:
Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly with a fork dipped in flour to seal.
Pro Tip: Ensure the edges are tightly sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during frying.
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Fry to Perfection
6. Heat the Oil:
Pour vegetable oil to a depth of 1/2 inch in a heavy skillet or use a deep fryer. Heat the oil to 370°F.
7. Fry the Pies:
Fry each pie in the hot oil, turning once, until golden brown. This should take about 2–3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the oil’s temperature and ensure even cooking.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to Make: With store-bought biscuit dough, these pies come together in no time.
Customizable: Swap the apples or peaches for your favorite dried fruit or mix in some chopped nuts for added texture.
Perfect Texture: The combination of flaky, buttery dough and a warm, gooey filling is simply divine.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve these fried pies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a touch of elegance, dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce. Pair them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or sweet iced tea for the ultimate comfort experience.
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Pro Tips for Success
1. Seal Well: Ensuring the edges are tightly sealed prevents any filling from spilling out during frying.
2. Fry in Small Batches: Maintain the oil temperature for perfectly crisp pies.
3. Cool Before Filling: Let the filling cool completely before assembling the pies to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
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Conclusion: Your New Favorite Dessert
These fried apple or peach pies are a delightful combination of crispy, golden dough and warm, spiced fruit filling. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for home cooks of all levels. Whether you’re making these for a weekend treat or a holiday gathering, they’re sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, grab those ingredients, and enjoy the most delicious fried pies you’ve ever tasted!
Try this recipe today, and bring the comfort of Southern cooking to your kitchen. You won’t be disappointed!
