Fried Pies: 7 Irresistible Comfort Food Delights to Savor

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about Fried Pies! These delightful little pastries are pure comfort food for me, and they hold a special place in my heart. Growing up, I remember my grandmother whipping up a batch filled with juicy fruit, their golden-brown crusts glistening as they came out of the hot oil. The way they puff up and sizzle is just magical! Fried Pies are not just a dessert; they’re a celebration of flavors, memories, and family traditions. Whether it’s apples in the fall or peaches in the summer, the sweet, warm filling wrapped in flaky dough is irresistible. And the best part? You can customize them with whatever fruit you have on hand! Trust me, once you take that first bite, the crisp exterior gives way to the luscious filling, and you’ll be hooked. They’re perfect for gatherings, picnics, or just a cozy night in!

Ingredients List

To make the most scrumptious Fried Pies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – for that perfect, flaky crust
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar – just a touch to sweeten the dough
• ½ teaspoon salt – to balance the flavors
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – for a little lift
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold, cut into small cubes – this is key for flakiness!
• ½ cup cold water (more if needed) – helps bring the dough together
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) – for an extra layer of flavor
• 2 cups fresh or canned fruit (like apples, peaches, or cherries), chopped – your choice for filling!
• ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste) – sweeten your fruit filling
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – to thicken the filling
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional) – adds brightness to the fruit
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) – for that warm, cozy flavor
• Vegetable oil or sunflower oil for frying – enough to fill your skillet
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional) – because who doesn’t love a little sweetness?

How to Prepare Fried Pies

Alright, let’s dive into the delicious world of making Fried Pies! It’s a fun process that’s simple enough for anyone to tackle, and I promise you’ll feel like a kitchen rockstar once they’re done. Follow these steps, and you’ll whip up a batch of these little pockets of joy in no time!

Making the Dough

First things first, we need to create that flaky, tender dough. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder until it’s all combined. Now, here comes the fun part! Grab your cold butter, and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it looks like coarse crumbs—kind of like sandy beach vibes! You want those little butter pieces to be about the size of peas. If you’re feeling fancy, add the vanilla extract here for a lovely hint of flavor.

Next, it’s time to bring this dough together. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until it forms a soft dough. Don’t overmix—just enough to combine. Once it’s looking good, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead it gently until smooth. Wrap it in plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps the gluten relax and makes your dough even flakier!

Preparing the Filling

While the dough chills, let’s get that luscious filling ready! In a medium saucepan, combine your chopped fruit, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and cinnamon if you’re using it. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring often, for about 10 minutes. You want the fruit to soften and the filling to thicken up nicely. Keep an eye on it, as it should become syrupy but not too watery—just think of it as a warm, fruity hug!

Once it’s thickened, remove the filling from the heat and let it cool slightly while you roll out that beautiful dough.

Assembling the Fried Pies

Now for the best part—assembling our Fried Pies! On a floured surface, roll out your chilled dough to about ⅛-inch thickness. Use a cutter or a glass to cut out 4–5 inch circles. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; each pie will have its unique charm!

Grab a spoon and place about 1–2 tablespoons of your cooled filling into the center of each circle. This is where the magic happens! Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, then press the edges firmly together to seal. For extra security, crimp the edges with a fork—this gives them that classic look and keeps the filling from escaping during frying. Once you’ve filled and sealed all your pies, you’re ready to fry!

Frying the Pies

In a deep skillet, heat about 2 inches of vegetable or sunflower oil to 350°F (175°C). This is super important—too hot and they’ll burn, too cool and they’ll soak up oil like a sponge. Fry the pies in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan. Each pie should cook for about 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and delicious. Oops! Careful, it splatters a bit, so I recommend using a slotted spoon to lower them in gently.

Once they’re all fried up, remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. If you want to add a little extra love, dust them with powdered sugar while they’re still warm. Trust me, you’ll want to serve these babies warm for the best experience!

Tips for Success

Making the perfect Fried Pies is all about the little details! Here are some practical tips to ensure your pies turn out amazing every time:

• Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes makes it easier to roll out and helps achieve that flaky texture.
• Adjust the Sugar: Depending on the sweetness of your fruit, you might want to adjust the sugar in your filling. Always taste it before cooking to get it just right!
• Watch the Oil Temperature: A candy thermometer is your best friend here. Keep an eye on the oil temperature; if it’s too hot, your pies will burn, and if it’s too cool, they’ll soak up too much oil.
• Fry in Batches: Frying too many pies at once can lower the oil temperature. It’s better to do it in small batches to keep them crispy and golden brown.
• Seal Well: Make sure to crimp the edges securely to prevent any filling from leaking out while frying. No one likes a pie with a big mess!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making Fried Pies that are not just good, but downright irresistible!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk nutritional values for these delightful Fried Pies! Each serving is typically one pie, and while they’re a treat, it’s good to know what you’re indulging in. Here’s an estimate of what you can expect:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 100mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Sugar: 10g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. For instance, using different fruits or adjusting the sugar can affect the overall nutritional profile. So, enjoy your Fried Pies, but also feel free to tweak the recipe to fit your dietary needs!

FAQ Section

Got questions about Fried Pies? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common inquiries about these delightful treats:

What fruits work best for Fried Pies?

Oh, this is where you can really get creative! You can use fresh or canned fruits like apples, peaches, or cherries. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor, and you can even mix and match! Just keep in mind the sweetness of the fruit when adjusting the sugar in your filling.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it wrapped in plastic in the fridge for up to a day or two. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out. This makes it easier to work with!

How do I store leftover Fried Pies?

Leftover Fried Pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them. Just know that they might lose a bit of their crispiness, but a quick reheat in the oven can help restore that golden goodness!

Can I bake Fried Pies instead of frying them?

While frying gives them that signature crispy crust, you can definitely bake them if you prefer! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the assembled pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them with a little melted butter for extra flavor and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Are Fried Pies healthy?

Well, let’s be honest—Fried Pies are more of a treat than a health food! They do contain some fruit and can be made with less sugar if you prefer. Just remember, moderation is key! Enjoy them as an occasional dessert, and feel free to experiment with healthier fillings or baking methods when you want to indulge guilt-free.

Why You’ll Love Fried Pies

• Quick and Easy: These Fried Pies come together in no time! With just a little prep and frying, you can have a delicious dessert ready to enjoy.
• Delicious Flavors: The combination of crispy, golden crust and warm, fruity filling is simply irresistible. Every bite is a burst of flavor!
• Versatile Fillings: You can use any fruit you like—apples, peaches, cherries, or even a mix! This means you can customize them based on your preferences or what’s in season.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or just a cozy night in, Fried Pies are sure to impress everyone!
• Fun to Make: Assembling these little pastries is a delightful activity, perfect for getting the whole family involved in the kitchen.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Fried Pies experience, consider pairing them with a few delightful accompaniments! A scoop of vanilla ice cream is an absolute must—imagine the warm, crispy pie against the cold, creamy ice cream melting into it. It’s a match made in dessert heaven! You could also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream, adding a light and fluffy touch that complements the rich filling.

If you want to add a little zing, drizzle some homemade caramel or chocolate sauce over the top. And for a refreshing twist, how about a side of fresh fruit or a simple fruit salad? The brightness of fresh berries or citrus can balance the richness of the pies perfectly. Trust me, these serving suggestions will take your Fried Pies from delicious to unforgettable!

Pour plus de recettes, suivez-moi sur ma page Pinterest.

Print