Print

Crispy Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Apple Hand Pies Easy Recipe with Caramel Dip

air fryer cinnamon sugar apple hand pies - featured image

These crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar apple hand pies feature a flaky puff pastry filled with warm cinnamon-spiced apples, served with a rich caramel dip. Quick and easy to make, they offer a perfect sweet treat with a cozy fall flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package frozen puff pastry (thawed)
  • 2 medium apples (about 1 cup diced) – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
  • 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
  • Pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves (optional)
  • For the caramel dip:
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the apple filling: In a medium bowl, mix the diced apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Add a pinch of nutmeg if desired. Stir until the apples are evenly coated. Set aside for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld and the sugar soften the fruit.
  2. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
  3. Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into 4-inch squares or circles.
  4. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the apple filling onto one half of each pastry piece, leaving a small border around the edges. Brush the edges lightly with beaten egg to help seal.
  5. Fold the pastry over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press edges together with a fork to crimp and seal well.
  6. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a glossy finish, then brush gently with melted butter for extra crispness and flavor.
  7. Place the hand pies in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and puffed.
  8. Make the caramel dip: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir constantly until thickened and bubbling, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Let cool slightly.
  9. Serve the hand pies warm with the caramel dip on the side for dunking or drizzling.

Notes

Preheat the air fryer for consistent crisping. Do not overcrowd the basket to allow air circulation. Turn pies halfway through cooking for even browning. If edges brown too fast, tent with foil. Use chilled puff pastry for better puff. Drain excess liquid from filling to avoid soggy bottoms. Let caramel dip cool slightly before serving to thicken.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple hand pies, air fryer recipes, cinnamon sugar, caramel dip, quick dessert, puff pastry, fall recipes, easy snacks