1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add diced apples or peaches, sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

3. Cook 5–7 minutes until soft and syrupy.

4. Stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken.

5. Remove from heat and add vanilla.

6. Allow filling to cool completely before assembling pies.

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STEP 2 — Prepare the Dough Circles

If using store-bought dough:

• Roll and cut into 4–5 inch circles.

If using homemade dough:

1. Mix flour + salt.

2. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.

3. Add ice water until dough forms.

4. Chill 10–15 minutes.

5. Roll and cut into circles.

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STEP 3 — Assemble the Hand Pies

1. Place 1–2 tbsp of filling in the center of each dough circle.

2. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape.

3. Seal edges with a fork to create the signature hand-pie look.

4. Chill pies while heating the oil — this helps them fry perfectly.

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STEP 4 — Fry the Pies

1. Heat oil to 350°F / 175°C.

2. Fry pies for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.

3. Place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

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STEP 5 — Add Optional Glaze

Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Drizzle over warm pies or dip the whole pie for a classic Southern finish.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Sprinkle with powdered sugar

• Serve with vanilla ice cream

• Dip in caramel sauce

• Enjoy warm for the best texture

These Southern fried apple pies and peach hand pies are perfect for dessert, snacks, bake sales, and holiday gatherings.

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🔁 Variations

• Air Fryer Fried Pies: 375°F for 8–10 minutes

• Baked Hand Pies: 400°F for 18–22 minutes

• Other Fillings: cherry, blueberry, strawberry, pumpkin

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🧁 Storage

• Keep leftover pies in an airtight container for up to 3 days

• Reheat in air fryer or oven for crispiness