Cranberry Apple Hand Pies

Cranberry Apple Hand Pies are the perfect handheld treat to celebrate the flavors of fall or anytime you crave a cozy, fruity dessert. These little pockets of joy combine tart cranberries and sweet apples wrapped in flaky pie crusts for a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a casual afternoon snack, or just because, these hand pies are easy to make, visually appealing, and absolutely delicious. With just one package of refrigerated pie crusts and a handful of fresh ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will disappear fast!

Reasons to Love Cranberry Apple Hand Pies

There are plenty of reasons to adore these Cranberry Apple Hand Pies. First, they capture the classic fall flavors of apples and cranberries, which blend beautifully with cinnamon and a touch of lemon to brighten the filling. Their individual size makes them perfect for portion control and easy sharing. Plus, using refrigerated pie crusts keeps the process simple and approachable, especially for bakers of all skill levels.

Another reason is their versatility—they can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed at room temperature as a portable snack. The combination of tart cranberries with sweet apples creates a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and comforting. Lastly, they’re a wonderful way to bring a little homemade charm to your dessert table without spending hours in the kitchen.

Your Shopping Guide

• Refrigerated Pie Crusts: Look for a standard package containing two crusts, usually found in the dairy or frozen section. These form the base and top of your hand pies.
• Fresh Cranberries: Choose bright red, firm cranberries free of blemishes. Fresh cranberries offer the best tartness and texture.
• Apples: Select medium-sized apples like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala for a sweet-tart balance that complements cranberries.
• Sugar: Granulated white sugar is standard, but brown sugar can be swapped for a deeper caramel note.
• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice—make sure your jar is fresh for maximum flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the fruit filling and balances sweetness.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the filling so it’s not runny after baking.
• Egg: Used for an egg wash to give the hand pies a gorgeous golden crust.
• Flour: For dusting your surface to prevent sticking while rolling and shaping the pies.

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Rolling Pin: To roll out pie crusts if needed and smooth edges.
• Baking Sheet: Line with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Mixing Bowl: To combine your fruit filling ingredients.
• Pastry Brush: For brushing the egg wash over the pies.
• Knife or Pastry Cutter: To cut the pie crust into shapes.
• Spoon or Small Ice Cream Scoop: To portion the filling evenly.
• Fork: To seal pie edges neatly.

Make Cranberry Apple Hand Pies: A Simple Method

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of fresh cranberries, 2 peeled and diced medium apples, 3/4 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Stir everything until the fruit is evenly coated and the cornstarch is fully incorporated. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Roll Out the Pie Crust

Lightly dust your work surface with flour. Unroll the refrigerated pie crusts and gently roll them out just to smooth the creases. Using a round cutter or a glass about 4 inches in diameter, cut out circles from the dough. Gather scraps, reroll, and cut additional circles until all dough is used.

Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies

Place a heaping tablespoon of the cranberry apple filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, or the pies may burst during baking. Moisten the edges of the dough with a little water, then fold the dough over to form a half moon shape. Press the edges with a fork to seal tightly.

Step 4: Apply the Egg Wash

Place the hand pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the tops of each pie with the egg wash. This step gives the crust a beautiful golden shine once baked.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pies for 20-25 minutes or until the crusts are golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Smart Substitutions

• Pie Crust: Use homemade pie dough or puff pastry if preferred.
• Sugar: Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar or honey for a different sweetness profile (adjust quantities accordingly).
• Apples: Pears or peaches can replace apples for a different fruity twist.
• Cornstarch: Use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as a thickening alternative.
• Egg Wash: Use milk or a mixture of milk and honey for a vegan-friendly glaze.

What Could Go Wrong

• Filling Too Runny: If the cornstarch isn’t mixed well or too little is used, the filling can leak out during baking. Make sure to fully incorporate the cornstarch and don’t overfill the pies.
• Crust Not Sealing: If edges aren’t moistened with water or pressed firmly, the pies might open while baking. Use a fork to crimp the edges tightly.
• Burnt Crust: If your oven runs hot, keep an eye on the pies and tent with foil if they brown too quickly.
• Dry Filling: Overbaking or using tart apples can sometimes cause dryness. Using a mix of sweet and tart apples helps balance moisture.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

These Cranberry Apple Hand Pies store beautifully! Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to restore the flaky crust.

You can also freeze the pies before baking—place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This makes for a convenient grab-and-bake treat whenever the craving hits.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen cranberries work well in this recipe. Just thaw and drain any excess liquid before mixing with the other filling ingredients to avoid a soggy crust.

How do I prevent the pie crust from getting soggy?

Make sure to evenly coat the fruit with cornstarch, which helps thicken the filling. Also, avoid overfilling the pies and bake them until the crust is golden and crisp.

Can I make these hand pies vegan?

Absolutely! Use a plant-based pie crust and swap the egg wash for a brush of plant milk mixed with a little maple syrup or agave for shine.

What’s the best way to serve Cranberry Apple Hand Pies?

They’re delicious warm, straight from the oven. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra special dessert.

Because You Liked This

• Apple Crisp Cheesecake – Another fantastic way to enjoy apples with a creamy twist.
• Berry Pie – If you love fruit-filled desserts, this classic berry pie is a must-try.

Bring It Home

Cranberry Apple Hand Pies are such a delightful way to enjoy the best of seasonal fruits wrapped in flaky, buttery crusts. This recipe is straightforward, approachable, and perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers looking for a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert. By following simple steps and using minimal ingredients, you’ll create a homemade treat that’s bursting with flavor and sure to become a new favorite. Whether for a casual snack or a festive occasion, these hand pies bring warmth, comfort, and a touch of sweetness to every bite.

So grab your pie crusts, fresh fruit, and get ready to bake up some magic with these lovely Cranberry Apple Hand Pies!

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