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Fried Pies

Homemade fried pies filled with sweet or savory fillings, featuring a crispy exterior and tender interior, perfect for sharing and customizable to your taste.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 12 pies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour For structure and texture.
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar Adds sweetness to the dough.
  • ½ teaspoon salt Balances flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Lightens the dough.
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes Cold butter contributes to a flaky texture.
  • ½ cup cold water Brings the dough together (may need more as needed).
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) Adds a layer of flavor.
For the Filling
  • 2 cups fresh or canned fruit (such as apples, peaches, or cherries), chopped The heart of your filling.
  • ½ cup granulated sugar Sweetens the fruit filling (adjust to taste depending on fruit sweetness).
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch Thickens the filling.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional) Brightens the flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) Adds warmth to spiced fillings.
For Frying
  • as needed Vegetable oil or sunflower oil Ensures a crispy finish.
  • to taste Powdered sugar for dusting For that extra touch of sweetness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
  2. Add the chilled butter cubes, and work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently for just a minute or two until smooth.
  5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking the Filling
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine your choice of fruit, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice (if desired), and cinnamon.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thickened and the fruit is softened—about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Assembling the Pies
  1. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ⅛ inch thick.
  2. Using a round cutter or a glass, cut the dough into circles, about 4-5 inches in diameter.
  3. Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of cooled fruit filling into the center of each circle.
  4. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together tightly, and use a fork to crimp the edges.
  5. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  6. Carefully add the filled pies to the hot oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  7. Remove from oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  8. Allow them to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

Store leftover fried pies in an airtight container for up to two days at room temperature. They freeze beautifully; just wrap each pie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to three months.