Golden Air Fryer Apple Pies

These golden air fryer apple pies are a cozy, sweet treat perfect for any time you want a quick, flaky dessert. The hand pies feature tender apples cooked with warm spices inside a crisp, flaky crust that browns beautifully in the air fryer. They come together quickly and deliver all the comforting flavors of a classic apple pie without the fuss of a full pie or deep frying. Cool slightly before serving so each bite has a perfect balance of crisp pastry and soft, spiced filling.

I remember the first time I made these pies, the crust was so flaky and golden that I was sold instantly. Now they are my go-to for impromptu dessert and my kids always ask for extra glaze on top.

Ingredients

• Apples: crisp and tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and provide the ideal balance of sweet and tangy
• Brown sugar: adds a rich caramel sweetness that keeps the apple filling tender and flavorful
• Lemon juice: brightens the fruit and stops it from browning while you prepare the rest
• Ground cinnamon: brings a warm, classic spice that defines the flavor of apple pie
• Ground nutmeg: deepens the aroma with gentle spice, freshly grated nutmeg is best for aroma and taste
• Cornstarch: thickens the filling so it stays neat and doesn’t leak out of the pies
• Refrigerated pie crusts: are convenient and bake up golden and flaky, make sure to fully thaw them for easier handling
• Egg: provides the glaze that gives pies their shiny, bakery finish
• Milk: softens the egg wash for a smooth, tender crust coating
• Granulated sugar: sprinkles on top add sparkle and a satisfying crunch after baking
• Powdered sugar or glaze: can be drizzled on when cooled for an extra sweet touch
• Fresh picked apples (optional): if you ever get a chance to use fresh picked apples, the flavor truly makes the pies taste special

Instructions

Prepare the Spiced Apple Filling:

Combine diced apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Heat over medium and cook for about six minutes, stirring frequently until the apples soften and the mixture thickens to a jammy consistency with no liquid pooling. Set aside to cool completely so the filling is easier to handle.

Shape the Pastry Rounds:

On a lightly floured surface, roll out both thawed pie crust sheets. Use a four to five inch round cutter or glass rim to cut eight circles. Gather scraps, reroll, and cut additional rounds if needed for a total of eight.

Fill and Seal the Hand Pies:

Place about a tablespoon of cooled apple filling in the center of four pastry rounds. Top each with another round and press edges together firmly using a fork to seal completely, preventing filling leaks during air frying.

Apply Egg Wash and Sugar:

In a small bowl, beat the egg with milk until smooth. Brush this wash lightly over the tops and edges of each pie. Sprinkle granulated sugar on top for a golden and crunchy finish.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Heat the air fryer to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for three minutes to ensure even cooking from the start.

Air Fry to Golden Perfection:

Arrange pies in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space for air circulation. Cook for ten to twelve minutes until crusts are crisp and deeply golden. You may need to do two batches depending on fryer size.

Cool and Finish:

Use a spatula to remove pies and let them cool on a wire rack until just warm. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze if desired. Serve warm for best texture and flavor.

My favorite part of making these pies is sneaking the caramelized apple bits that bubble out onto the baking tray — they are pure magic. For my family, the smell of these baking has become a sign that cozy movie night is about to begin.

Storage Tips

Allow pies to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation which can make the crust soggy. Keep in an airtight container on the counter for up to two days or refrigerate for up to four. To refresh, reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispness.

Ingredient Substitutions

If brown sugar is unavailable, coconut sugar or maple syrup make excellent alternatives and add their own unique flavors. Gluten-free pie crusts work well to accommodate dietary needs. You might try pears in place of apples or toss in dried cranberries for a burst of tartness. Using a combination of tart and sweet apples adds a richer dimension to the filling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these hand pies warm with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent finish. For brunch or parties, cut smaller rounds and make mini hand pies. Dipping the crispy edges in cinnamon sugar makes for a fun donut-like treat my friends love.

These golden air fryer apple pies are best served warm and can be refreshed in the air fryer for crispness. They make an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert.

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do I prevent the filling from making the crust soggy?

Allow the apple filling to cool completely before placing it in the pastry to avoid moisture softening the crust.

→ Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Pears or peaches work well when spiced and thickened similarly, providing a delicious variation on the hand pies.

→ What type of pie crust is best for these hand pies?

Pre-made refrigerated pie crusts offer convenience and flaky texture, though homemade dough also works beautifully.

→ How do I get the crust extra golden and crisp?

Brush the tops with an egg wash and sprinkle sugar before air frying to achieve a shiny, golden, crisp finish.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

You can assemble the hand pies and refrigerate before air frying, but baking fresh yields the best texture.