Classic Southern Fried Apple Pies Recipe

Indulge in the taste of classic Southern Fried Apple Pies. These delightful handheld treats are made with a flaky homemade crust and filled with a sweet and tangy apple filling. Fried to golden perfection, these pies are irresistible and make for a perfect dessert or snack. Learn how to make this traditional American favorite with this easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 4 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Slowly add the cold water to the flour mixture, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. While the dough chills, prepare the apple filling. In a saucepan, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture has thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool.
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use a round cookie cutter or a drinking glass to cut out circles of dough, approximately 4 inches in diameter.
5. Place a spoonful of the cooled apple filling onto one half of each dough circle. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to seal the edges by pressing down firmly.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to a temperature of 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the pies into the hot oil, frying them in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown.
7. Remove the fried pies from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. If desired, dust the fried apple pies with powdered sugar before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
9. Serve these delicious fried apple pies as a delightful dessert or a tasty snack.

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