Apple Hand Pies

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup ice water
• 2 cups apples, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon sugar for topping

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt and baking powder.
2. Add in the cold cubed butter and, using a pastry blender, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add in the ice water and mix until the dough comes together. Knead the dough a few times until it forms a ball, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the diced apples, sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg.
5. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
7. Using a 3-inch round cookie cutter, cut out circles of dough.
8. Place 1 tablespoon of the apple mixture in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges together with a fork to seal.
9. Place the pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush with the egg wash (egg and water). Sprinkle the tops with sugar.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the pies are golden brown.
11. Remove from the oven and cool before serving.

Interesting Facts

• Apple Hand Pies are believed to have originated in the United States in the 19th century.
• These pies are also called "pocket pies" because of their shape.
• Apple Hand Pies are a popular treat at fairs and carnivals.